Secrets to Riding the Shinkansen at a Better Cost

As a Japanese resident, I’ve been surprised to see so many international visitors come to Japan and miss out on ways to save money. Simply because they aren’t aware of these methods. There are plenty of ways to reduce costs especially when it comes to riding the Shinkansen. You can also secure discounted Tokyo Disneyland Tickets, check out our article on that here.

That’s why I decided to write this blog post—to share these tips and help you enjoy your journey in Japan while keeping your budget in check. I hope you find these insights helpful for making your trip smoother and more affordable.

Riding the Shinkansen is an iconic part of Japan’s travel experience, offering speed, comfort, and convenience as you journey through the country’s breathtaking landscapes. However, it’s no secret that this form of transportation can be quite expensive. Luckily, there are several strategies and options available to make your Shinkansen trip more affordable without sacrificing the experience. Let’s explore some of the best tips for scoring discounted Shinkansen tickets and making the most of your train travel in Japan.

1. Discounted Shinkansen Tickets through Special Passes

One of the easiest ways to reduce the cost of Shinkansen travel is by purchasing a special rail pass designed for tourists or regional travelers.

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)

The Japan Rail Pass is perhaps the most well-known discount pass for travelers visiting Japan. This pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen (except for the Nozomi and Mizuho trains). There are 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day passes available. While the upfront cost might seem high, it provides significant savings for anyone planning to travel long distances by Shinkansen during their stay.

A major benefit of the JR Pass is that it can also be used on other JR-operated trains, as well as some buses and ferries. It makes for a great option for widespread travel. Travelers can purchase the JR Pass online before their trip or at major JR train stations upon arrival in Japan.

Regional JR Passes

In addition to the nationwide JR Pass, several regional JR passes offer discounted travel within specific areas of Japan. For example:

• JR West Kansai Area Pass: Ideal for exploring cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara.
• JR Central’s Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen Pass: This pass covers travel on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen. It connects Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
• JR Kyushu Pass: Perfect for travelers looking to explore the southern region of Japan.

These passes provide significant savings especially if you plan on taking multiple Shinkansen rides within the region.

2. Early-Bird Discounts (Hayatoku Tickets)

For those who prefer more flexibility without the need for a multi-day pass, consider purchasing Hayatoku Tickets. These discounted tickets offer significant savings when you book your Shinkansen ride in advance. Typically available for purchase between a month and a couple days before your departure. The earlier you book, the better the discount.

These tickets are available on several Shinkansen lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen (connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka) and the Kyushu Shinkansen. It’s worth checking the official websites of JR Central and JR Kyushu for these early-bird offers.

3. Platt Kodama Discount on the Tokaido Shinkansen

Another great option for those traveling along the Tokaido Shinkansen is the Platt Kodama (also known as “Puratto Kodama”). With the Platt Kodama ticket, you can enjoy a reserved seat at a much lower price than standard fares. Plus, the ticket often comes with a drink coupon, making it an even better deal. Keep in mind that these tickets must be purchased at least a day in advance, and availability can vary, so planning ahead is key.

4. SmartEX App for Digital Shinkansen Tickets

The SmartEX app is a convenient way to purchase Shinkansen tickets digitally. It can sometimes offer small discounts compared to buying tickets at the station. The app supports various payment methods, including credit cards and IC cards, making it easy to book and pay for your trip in advance.

What’s more, the app allows you to make seat reservations directly, ensuring you have a comfortable journey. This is particularly useful for reserved seats during busy travel seasons. The SmartEX app can be used for major Shinkansen routes like the Tokaido Shinkansen and Sanyo Shinkansen, making it a handy tool for frequent travelers.

5. Using IC Cards for Convenient Travel

In addition to passes and early-bird tickets, consider using an IC card (such as Suica or ICOCA) for added convenience during your Shinkansen travel. While IC cards are typically used for local trains and buses, they can also be used for non-reserved Shinkansen seats on certain routes, such as the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Osaka.

Though using an IC card doesn’t offer significant discounts on its own, it does make the process of buying tickets more efficient. It allows you to quickly pass through ticket gates without having to line up at a ticket counter.

6. Credit Card Perks for Train Travel

Some credit cards offer exclusive discounts or cashback rewards for travel purchases, including Shinkansen tickets. If you frequently travel by train or plan to use the Shinkansen extensively during your trip, it might be worth checking if your credit card offers any perks, such as discounted rates or travel points, for booking train tickets through affiliated platforms or apps.

Cards that offer travel insurance can also add an extra layer of security to your trip, especially if you’re making multiple bookings in advance.

7. Group Discounts for Families or Friends

If you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, be sure to inquire about group discounts for Shinkansen tickets. Some train operators offer special deals for travelers booking multiple tickets together. This is especially useful for families or those planning group trips to popular destinations like Kyoto or Osaka.

Group discounts may also apply to those using regional passes, so it’s worth asking at the ticket counter or checking online to see if your group qualifies for extra savings.

8. Stay Updated on Special Promotions

JR companies frequently run seasonal promotions or offer limited-time discounts on Shinkansen tickets. These promotions are often tied to holidays, festivals, or special events in Japan, and they can offer substantial savings for travelers who are flexible with their travel dates.

For example, JR West and JR Kyushu periodically release promotional tickets that are only available for a short period. To stay informed, check the JR websites or sign up for newsletters to receive updates on these special offers.

9. Shinkansen Tour Packages

Many travel agencies, such as this, offer Shinkansen tour packages that bundle train tickets with hotel stays or sightseeing passes. Vendors often sell these packages at a discount, offering a more affordable way to experience Japan’s top destinations via Shinkansen. This is especially useful for tourists who want to explore multiple cities without the hassle of planning each segment of their trip separately.

Final Thoughts

Traveling on the Shinkansen doesn’t have to break the bank. By taking advantage of special passes, early-bird discounts, and regional promotions, you can enjoy a comfortable and speedy ride across Japan while keeping your budget intact. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, the historic temples of Kyoto, or the scenic beauty of Kyushu, these strategies will help you secure cheap Shinkansen tickets and make the most of your journey.

Embrace the efficiency and comfort of Japan’s bullet trains, and happy travels!

As a Japanese traveler, I’d like to share a couple of insider tips that I often use to save even more on Shinkansen fares.

Utilize Ticket Shops (Kinken Shops)

At ticket shops, you can purchase Shinkansen multi-ride tickets or shareholder discount coupons at a lower price. Multi-ride tickets, in particular, are a great opportunity as they are no longer sold at JR stations. However, the discount rate is somewhat modest, at around a few percent.

Take Advantage of Shareholder Discount Coupons

With shareholder discount coupons, you can get up to 50% off in some cases. You can find these at ticket shops or flea market apps. It’s important to check the discount details for each operating company before purchasing.

Utilize Senior Discounts

By joining the senior discount program “Zipang Club,” those aged 60 and over can get up to 30% off JR fares, including Shinkansen. However, an annual fee is required, so consider joining depending on how often you travel.

I hope these insider tips help you make smart use of the Shinkansen and enjoy a comfortable trip in Japan!

Lastly, we also offer services to help you obtain shareholder discount coupons and purchase Shinkansen tickets from ticket shops. So please feel free to contact us for more information.

Shin Kawamoto

Shin Kawamoto, CEO of AnimeInJapan and author, champions teamwork, community, and authenticity through his impactful leadership and writings.

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