Why Japan’s Bullet Train Is Simply the Best On the Planet

Above, a Tokaido Shinkansen train arrives at Atami Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Anyone visiting Japan has to put one item on their "bucket list" of things to do.

That is taking a ride on Japan's Shinkansen, or Bullet Train.

I have ridden aboard several bullet trains over the years and found them to be comfortable and relaxing. If one is lucky, views of Mount Fuji can be seen from the Tokaido Shinkansen.

Above, Mount Fuji from the Tokaido Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Los Angeles Times has posted a guide to riding the speedy Shinkansen.

They begin it with:

It begins as a gentle rumble as you see motion out of the window: that slight lurching forward. With a steady gait, the train leaves the station, passing a crisscross melange of different city and regional rail lines also staking out on their journeys. Through the maze of tunnels, trestles, flyovers and what feels like one million buildings, the sleek N700 hums evermore to life, as speed limits start to ease and the endlessness of Tokyo … well, ends.

And then, without exactly knowing how it happened or even feeling it, you realize you are traveling at around 175 miles per hour and the world is flying by.

To read more, go here. 

Shinkansen At 60

Above, a bullet train pulls into Atami Station in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Did you know that last year the famous Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, in Japan turned 60?

Incredible as it may seem, the Shinkansen began Service in October 1964. 

I have taken rail trips on the Shinkansen from Sendai to Kyushu and points in-between. They have always been enjoyable and comfortable.

According to Travel and Tour World:

On October 1, 1964, just days before Tokyo hosted the Summer Olympics, Japan unveiled the world’s first high-speed rail service — the Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train. This sleek white marvel did more than cut travel times; it became a powerful symbol of Japan’s rapid post-war recovery and technological prowess, setting a global benchmark for rail innovation.

To read more, go here. 

New Mt. Fuji Eruption Safety Recommendations

Above, a bullet train (Shinkansen) view of Mount Fuji. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The last time Japan's Mount Fuji erupted was in the early 1700s.

It is still considered an active volcano, just dormant. But that's not stopping Japanese authorities from providing recommendations for public safety in case the mountain decides to erupt.

According to Travel and Tour World:

The Japanese authorities have released new recommendations urging residents to remain indoors in the event of a possible eruption from Mount Fuji. An expert panel has classified ashfall into four distinct levels of severity, advising evacuations for wooden structures experiencing more than 30 cm of ash. The guidelines stress the importance of having emergency provisions for at least seven days, avoiding the use of cars, and effectively managing ash accumulation. Public readiness and awareness are key components of the recommendations.

In light of potential volcanic threats, the Japanese government has issued updated guidelines advising residents to stay indoors if Mount Fuji erupts, causing significant ashfall across the Tokyo metropolitan area. This comes after thorough evaluations by an expert panel assembled by the government. While Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest peak, last erupted over 300 years ago and the likelihood of another eruption is low, these new regulations aim to prepare the public for any unforeseen events.

To read more, go here.

60th Anniversary of Japan's Bullet Train

Above, the first Shinkansen train I rode in 2001. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Introduced just a few days before the 1964 Tokyo Olympic games, Japan's Shinkansen (bullet train) was introduced into service with the Tokaido Line between Tokyo and Osaka.

This year marks 60 years since that event and bullet trains serve passengers with more lines around the country. The country will celebrate this milestone this coming Tuesday.

Above, a Shinkansen's car interior. Photo by Armand Vaquer. 

I have been on several bullet trains over the years including the aforementioned Tokaido Line and routes to Sendai, Fukuoka and Sendai. The ride is so smooth that its speed is not noticeable until the train passes one going the opposite direction and the air cushion between them hits.

Above, a Shinkansen arrives at Atami Station in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

.Here's a video from British Pathé:

 

Here's a video from the Film Archive of Japan:

 

Train Routes Showing Off The Scenic American Backcountry

Above, the Southwest Chief arrives at Gallup Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One mode of travel that I've always found enjoyable and that is train travel.

Whether it is a steam locomotive in San Juan Mountains of Colorado or a cross-country ride aboard the Southwest Chief or a high speed Shinkansen in Japan, they all have been enjoyable.

TheTravel has an article on ten train routes showing off the scenic American backcountry.

They begin with:

Is there anything not to love about train travel? Think about it. The whistles from the steam engines, clickety-clack sounds, and beautiful scenery all make for a fun ride, and someone else is doing the driving.

The world is full of things that instantly gratify people, and certainly, enjoying leisurely travel along one of the scenic sleeper train routes in the US is one of them. So, enjoying a slow ride can be an incredible experience. Whether doing a day trip or a long-distance journey, train rides are the best way to explore an area without rushing.

But which routes should one explore in the Backcountry? Here are the ten train journeys to take in this part of America.

To read more, go here. 

Navigating Japan's Shinkansen Network

Above, inside a bullet train car. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

My first trip to Japan was in November 2001. During that trip I took a bullet train (Shinkansen) trip to the Atami area of Japan.

Since then, I have taken several other Shinkansen trains to other areas of Japan including Sendai, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Kyushu and Niigata. 

Travel + Leisure has posted a complete guide on Japan's bullet trains with information on the different types of them.

They begin with:

The notion of wasting time on commutes is foreign in Japan, thanks to its high-speed bullet trains, or Shinkansen, which zoom along at a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). Operating on a well-organised high-speed railway network, these trains adhere to a punctual schedule throughout the week. With travellers’ convenience at the fore, Japan’s bullet trains delight with amenities like vending machines, food carts serving meals, drinks, and snacks, as well as informative announcements delivered in multiple languages.

To read more, go here. 

Japan's Popular Rail Pass Is About to Get More Expensive

Above, inside a Shinkansen (bullet train) car. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I have posted about this before, but those planning to travel to Japan can still purchase the JR Rail Pass at the current price until October 1.

That's when the price is hiked about 70%.

According to Travel + Leisure:

The Japan Rail Pass, one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to travel around the country, is going up in price this fall. 

The cost of a 7-day rail pass, known as the JR Pass, will increase from as low as 29,650 yen ($201.19) when purchased from an authorized retailer to 50,000 yen ($339.28), a nearly 70 percent increase, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. The price increase will go into effect on Oct. 1 and become the first increase in several years.

A spokesman for the JR Group told The New York Times the increase follows improvements to its service, including extending lines and updating reservation systems.

“As a result, the actual benefits greatly exceed the product price,” the spokesman said, adding, “we have decided to revise the price to an appropriate level.”

When the price increase goes into effect, a 14-day JR Pass will rise from as low as 47,250 yen ($320.62) to 80,000 yen ($542.85) and a 21-day pass will rise from as low as 60,450 yen ($410.19) to 100,000 yen ($678.56). Passes for children 6 to 11 years old will cost 50 percent of the adult price. 

 To read more, go here.

Japan’s JR Rail Pass Prices Are About to Increase

Above, the first Shinkansen I rode using the JR Rail Pass. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We're a little over a month away from when the cost of the JR Rail Pass is hiked around 70%.

I have used the JR Rail Pass several times to travel around Japan. With them, I have been to Sendai, Niigata, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Sasebo, Kumamoto, Atami and other places. 

AFAR has posted an article on what to expect when the prices go up on October 1. They also state that there's plenty of time to buy before they do.

They begin with:

Travelers planning on visiting Japan may want to re-evaluate their travel budget—the price for a Japan Rail Pass is set to rise by roughly 70 percent on October 1, 2023.

The passes, which offer a flat rate for an unlimited number of rides on most trains during a set timeframe (including the famous high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains) have long been a popular way for travelers keen to visit multiple destinations (and have traditionally been more cost-effective than buying tickets à la carte).

Here’s what you need to know about the new pricing for the Japan Rail Pass.

To read more, go here. 

What It's Like To Ride Japan's Bullet Trains

Above, a view of Mount Fuji from a Hikari Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the most enjoyable things to experience in Japan is taking a ride on one of their famous bullet trains, or Shinkansens.

I have ridden several of them. including the Hikari Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto over the years. It is on this route that Mount Fuji can be seen on clear days.

Monica Humpries took the Hikari to Kyoto and was thrilled with the experience and she writes about it (with plenty of photos) for Insider.

She begins with:

I've had the luxury of sitting underneath glass-dome windows as my Rocky Mountaineer train barreled between Colorado's mountains.

I've peered into a rainforest as a commuter train headed out of Sydney, Australia, and into the bush. 

But nothing could have prepared me for the excitement of riding my first bullet train between Tokyo and Kyoto.

If one wants to ride a bullet train with a Japan Rail Pass, they better do it before October 1. The price of rail passes go up that day.

To read more, go here. 

Opposition To Mt. Fuji Railway Plan

Above, a view of Mt. Fuji from a passing Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, our G-TOUR tour group took a bus ride to one of the fifth Stations on the slopes of Mount Fuji in Japan. 

Now, one of the governing prefectures of the mountain is considering building a rail line to a fifth station. This plan is facing stiff opposition as Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and is seen as a "sacred mountain" by the Japanese. 

Above, the summit of Mt. Fuji during a stop while en route to a fifth station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Japan News (Yomiuri Shimbun) reported: 

With Thursday marking the 10th anniversary of Mt. Fuji’s designation as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, authorities are debating how to curb the number of tourists on Japan’s highest mountain and ease the environmental burden tourists create.

The government of Yamanashi Prefecture, which is located on the northern side of the 3,776-meter peak, is considering building a railway from Mt. Fuji’s foot to the fifth station on the existing Fuji Subaru Line toll road.

Although the prefecture plans to start technical surveys soon, some parties have expressed opposition, arguing that the mountain’s designation as a World Heritage site emphasizes its significance as a “sacred mountain.”

Yamanashi Prefecture is considering running a light rail transit (LRT) system on tracks to be laid on a 28-kilometer section of the Fuji Subaru Line toll road. An LRT is a low trolley with limited noise and shaking.

To read more, go here. 

Tokyo Cheapo's Shinkansen Guide Video

Above, a Shinkansen view of Mt. Fuji while en route to Osaka from Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that foreigners can travel again to Japan, here's something that will be helpful if one is planning to travel outside of Tokyo to other cities.

Tokyo Cheapo has posted a video guide for using the famous bullet trains, or Shinkansens, while in Japan. 

According to the video posting:

Wondering whether the Shinkansen (that’s the bullet train) might be the best way to get from one part of Japan to another? This a comprehensive guide to taking some of the fastest trains in the world, from speeds to seat reservations, luggage and the Japan rail passes.

Here's the video:

JR Rail Passes For Foreign Tourists Visiting Japan

Above, two JR Rail Passes that I used during past trips. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that Japan has reopened to foreign tourists again, it is time to do some planning for a future trip and how to get around the country after you've arrived.

The most economical way to get around Japan, saving a lot of money in the process, is with the many JR Rail Passes that are available to foreign tourists. 

According to Time Out, there are 13 different Rail Passes available. All one has to do is select one that best suits one's itinerary.

Time Out reported:

Travelling via train and shinkansen is a quintessential Japanese experience. However, train rides, especially on the shinkansen, can add up to be a costly expense. Lucikly for tourists, Japan Railways has created a host of discount rail passes exclusively for foreign passport holders with short-term visit visas, all of which offer unlimited rides on trains and shinkansen across multiple days. (Psst... some of these JR passes are also available to foreign residents in Japan – more info here.) 

Aside from the popular Japan Rail Pass, which gives you access to most JR trains and shinkansen across the breadth of Japan, there are a number of other discount passes that could also save you a lot of money. To help you organise your travels, here's a list of all the current JR rail passes you can enjoy with your foreign passport as a temporary visitor in Japan. Just don't forget to bring your passport along with you when you go to purchase or collect your pass.

To read more, go here. 

Japan Police Preparing for Possible Mount Fuji Eruption

Above, a Shinkansen view of Mount Fuji. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The last eruption of Japan's Mount Fuji was during the 18th Century. Since then, the mountain has remained dormant.

That could change at any time and Japan is preparing for such a possible eventuality.

According to the Jiji Press: 

Tokyo, June 19 (Jiji Press)--Japan's National Police Agency has started making full-fledged preparations for a possible eruption of Mount Fuji, the tallest peak in the country.

The NPA will purchase dust masks for distribution to local police departments, assuming that volcanic ash may fall in not only areas near Mount Fuji but also the metropolitan region in the event of an eruption, informed sources said.

"We need to make preparations for a potential complex disaster, such as an eruption occurring after a massive earthquake," an expert said.

 To read more, go here.

What To Know About Using A Japan Rail Pass

Above, a couple of Japan Rail Passes I've used. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the perks of being a foreign tourist to Japan is that it allows tourists to use different Japan Rail Passes. Rail Passes allow tourists to explore Japan by rail (including bullet trains) and save money at the same time.

I've used them several times during my eight trips to Japan.

The Travel has posed an article on everything you should know about using Japan Rail Pass.

They start it off with:

Every year, millions of people flock to Japan to witness its marvelous and most iconic attractions, including Mount Fuji, Imperial Tokyo, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, historic Kyoto, the Island Shrine of Itsukushima, and much more. They can use the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto when heading to Mount Fuji or take the subway train to a specific place of interest. The simple fact of experiencing the country’s world-leading railway system is just a unique and quintessential part of a Japan trip.

However, those who want to save a lot of money when using the Japanese transportation system can spend some time learning about the convenient and special Japan Rail Pass. This applies to tourists who plan to save much money when exploring a lot in Japan.

Above, a shinkansen view of Mt. Fuji en route to Osaka from Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read the full article, go here. 

What You Can See From Japan's Shinkansens

Above, a Tokaido Shinkansen arriving at Atami Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If there is one thing visitors to Japan should put their "bucket list" it is taking a train trip aboard one of Japan's famous bullet trains, or Shinkansen.

The first time for me was taking a Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Atami in 2001. The longest for me was from Tokyo to Fukuoka in Kyushu. 

Above, a view of Mount Fuji from a Tokaido Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

There are several Japan Rail Passes for foreign visitors available for unlimited use in set numbers of days. Along with Shinkansen trains, rail passes can also be used for JR commuter trains and subways.

If one is considering such a ride aboard a Shinkansen and would like more information, The Travel has posted a detailed article on them, including their history and evolution.

They start it with:

If we can revere technology and the marvel of engineering, Japan triumphs over it. The new needle-nosed bullet train of Japan called "Shinkansen" which literally means "New Trunk Line" or Super Express has garnered a lot of attention.

About Shinkansen

Operated by Japan Railways (JR) Group Companies, this train is recommended for any long-distance, be it between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka, Hokkaido to Kagoshima, Shinkansen covers most of Japan. A mesmerizing experience to watch all the coveted destinations of Japan on this journey makes it a more attractive proposition.

The speed of the train is a maximum of 320 km/hour or 199 mph. So, 500 km can be traveled in 2 to 2.5 hours surprisingly. Quite spacious and luxurious, one can relax around and bask in the glory of nature. Also, free Wifi is available on the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines. The train is famous for its speed, reliability, and safety.

To read more, go here. 

The History of the Shinkansen

Above, inside a Shinkansen car. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The first time I took a ride on Japan's Shinkansen, the bullet train, was during my first trip to Japan in November 2001.

Since that time, I have taken Shinkansen trips to different places in Japan, from Sendai on down to Fukuoka and points in-between.

Jobs In Japan has an article on the Shinkansen, "The History of the Shinkansen, Japan's Fantastic Bullet Train".

They begin with:

Japan is a country famous for a myriad of reasons. Stunning rural landscapes link the incredible feats found in the architecture of the cites, each with a variety of traditional foods based on the tastes of the different regions that invented them. Natural wonders like Mount Fuji, sites of historic importance like Hiroshima and Kyoto are also spread across the country. Just about anywhere you want to go has something worth seeing. With the Shinkansen, or as its come to be known in English, the “bullet train”, it’s possible for visitors and locals in Japan to see and experience all the country has to offer in style and comfort.

In fact the Shinkansen has itself become a reason for many to visit Japan. Admiration of trains is by no means a modern culture, and the Shinkansen is the modern holy grail of locomotion. Coupled with the highly attractive “Japan Rail pass”, allowing foreign visitors to take unlimited rides, the Shinkansen’s popularity only continues to grow.

Above, a Shinkansen train at Tokyo Station in 2001. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read about the history of the Shinkansen, go here. 

Best Shinkansen Seat To See Mount Fuji

When traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and beyond on a shinkansen (bullet train) here's what seat you should get:

japantravelcentre_official To view Mt Fuji from the Shinkansen window, you should get a seat “E” (mountain side) in ordinary cars. 

Above, a shinkansen view of Mount Fuji. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Ultimate Guide To Japanese Trains

Above, a bullet train (shinkansen) arrives at Atami Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If you are planning to take a vacation trip to Japan, sooner or later you will be on board in one of the country's train systems. There's a lot of them and chances are you will be on one upon arrival, especially if you're flying into Narita International Airport.

LearnJapanese123.com has the "ultimate" guide to Japanese trains for you to peruse.

They begin with:

Japan’s public transportation system is known for being one of the most advanced and reliable in the entire world! If you’re visiting Japan, the train system is an especially convenient and affordable way to travel. Here’s everything you need to know about taking the trains in Japan.

To read more, go here. 

Misconceptions About Japan's Trains

Above, a Keisei Line train stopped at a Chiba Prefecture station due to snow in 2014. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the joys of visiting Japan is riding their trains (except during rush hour) . 

Trains vary from high-speed bullet trains (shinkansen) to older steam locomotives. Japan Today has an article the clears up five misconceptions about Japan's trains.

It begins with:

TOKYO - Japan is a train lovers paradise, but some trains are a bit more difficult to love. 

Japanese trains are famous all over the world for being high-tech, lightning fast, impossibly punctual and cramming passengers into the cars like Tetris blocks. But what if I told you this was only a half truth? 

A capital city is never a reflection of the entire nation. My home country of England is so much more than just London and Japan is so much more than just Tokyo. The trains may be a nightmare scrum in the metropolis, but the majority of Japan has a much lower population and thus the trains — and the way people ride them — are different in a variety of ways.

To read more, go here. 

Insider Travel Tips For Beginners Exploring Japan

Above, inside a Narita Express train car. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Getting around Japan is not difficult. There are many options for transportation, but not all of them are cheap even though foreign visitors have the advantage of getting Rail Passes.

Gaijinpot.com has some travel tips for beginners.

They start with:

So you’ve come to work in Japan and are now wondering how to travel around this dynamic country in the most cost- and time-efficient ways? Great, let’s brainstorm together. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of traveling by train, car, bus and plane. We’ve even included insider tips for cheap accommodation and helpful forums for your trip planning.

To read more, go here.