Do you want to travel by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or visit recommended sightseeing spots for tourists visiting Japan?
Seven Shinkansen trains run through Tokyo Station, and you can quickly reach tourist spots in various regions such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Sendai in 2 to 3 hours. It will be an elegant and wonderful moment while admiring the beautiful scenery while feeling the world’s highest class safety and speed.
In this article, we will introduce the appeal of the Shinkansen, sightseeing spots that can be accessed by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station, and the Japan Rail Pass, which is a great deal for tourists visiting Japan. Please take a look.
■Comparing the types and characteristics of 10 Shinkansen trains that pass through Japan
As of March 2024, there are 10 types of Shinkansen running throughout Japan.
Japan’s Shinkansen trains make full use of advanced technology and offer world-class safety and accurate time management, saving time and providing comfort.
Japanese Shinkansen services and how to enjoy them
On the train, they sell local bento boxes to your seat, and the customer service is polite and high-quality. Although not all Shinkansen trains are equipped with it, the Gran Class offers service comparable to first class on an airplane.
The types of seats on the Shinkansen are as follows:
It’s not as expensive as flying, and you can sit in Gran Class for an additional 3,000 to 6,000 yen on a green car. Our top-class seats make your journey even more enjoyable and comfortable.
■3 recommended sightseeing spots for tourists visiting Japan that can be reached by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station!
There are seven types of Shinkansen that pass through Tokyo Station, and you can go anywhere. If you take the Shinkansen, you can take a day trip from Tokyo Station to Aomori in about 3 hours or to Yamaguchi Prefecture in the west of Honshu in about 4 hours.
Here we will introduce Kyoto, Osaka, and Sendai, which are particularly popular tourist spots for tourists visiting Japan, which can be reached within 2 to 3 hours from Tokyo Station.
Kyoto has many tourist spots such as shrines, temples, and historical sites.
First of all, there is the “Senbon Torii” of Mt. Inari. Approximately 1,000 torii gates are lined up, forming a beautiful vermilion landscape. The shrine is steeped in history and has a mystical atmosphere, and its 1,000 torii gates are popular as a grand and sacred space.
Next is Rokuonji Temple (Kinkakuji Temple), which is famous for its golden Shariden. There are also “Rikshu no Matsu” and “Fudodo” in the surrounding area, and at “Kagami Lake” you will be fascinated by the upside-down Golden Pavilion and the opposite Golden Pavilion.
Lastly, Kiyomizu-dera is a venerable temple with a history of approximately 1,200 years and has been designated as a World Heritage Site. There are over 30 buildings dotted around the area, including the main hall, Niomon gate, and three-storied pagoda, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season.
The required time and round-trip fare for the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station are as follows.
Osaka, a vibrant and unique culture
First of all, Dotonbori is a famous gourmet town where you can eat Osaka’s famous takoyaki, takosen, and butaman. There are many shopping and tourist attractions, so you can enjoy it all day long.
Next is USJ (Universal Studios Japan). You can experience the excitement and emotion of attractions designed by Steven Spielberg and Hollywood movies. Attractions and shows keep you entertained throughout the day.
The last stop is Osaka Castle, which was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and is a symbol of Osaka. The area is dotted with historical buildings designated as nationally important cultural properties, and the view from the observation deck is spectacular, allowing you to feel the charm of Osaka.
The required time and round-trip fare for the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station are as follows.
“Sendai” where you can enjoy nature and delicious food
First up is the Sendai Castle ruins, which is a historical building built by Date Masamune. The beauty of the stone wall on the north wall of the main enclosure and the view from the equestrian statue of Date Masamune captivate visitors.
Next is Zuihoden, which was built according to Date Masamune’s will and later designated as a national treasure. Masamune’s grave site is located on a quiet hill, and its beautiful appearance still remains today.
Lastly, Sendai’s famous beef tongue. Sendai’s specialty, beef tongue, is a beloved Sendai soul food. Umami Tasuke, an original dish created by the yakitori restaurant’s chef with his own ideas, is popular and ranked #1 on Tabelog.
The required time and round-trip fare for the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station are as follows.
■What is the Japan Rail Pass, which is a good deal for foreigners visiting Japan?
The Japan Rail Pass is an unlimited ride ticket provided to foreigners visiting Japan. Recommended for tourists visiting Japan who want to visit many sightseeing spots in Japan in a short period of time, and can be used on Shinkansen and conventional lines, with the exception of some Shinkansen trains.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Japan Rail Pass and how to purchase it
The advantages and disadvantages of the Japan Rail Pass are summarized below.
The advantage is that it can be used in many places and saves money, but the disadvantage is that it cannot be used on some trains or areas. It can be purchased online or from a travel agent, and upon arrival, exchange it for your passport at a JR counter to receive it.
Price simulation when using Japan Rail Pass! How much will you save?
Let’s compare the model plan below, which departs from Tokyo Station and returns to Tokyo Station in 7 days using the Shinkansen.
<Model plan starting from Tokyo Station>
<Japan Rail Pass Fees>
The model plan costs 78,440 yen, but with the Japan Rail Pass you can purchase it for 50,000 yen, so you save 28,440 yen on the Japan Rail Pass.
■Have fun visiting tourist spots on the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station
You can travel comfortably and conveniently by using the Shinkansen. By using the Japan Rail Pass, you can enjoy traveling economically and efficiently. Enjoy the Japanese scenery and culture to your heart’s content with the speed and comfortable interior of the Shinkansen.
【Q＆A】
Q: How many Shinkansen trains pass through Tokyo Station?
A: Seven trains pass through this area: Hokkaido Shinkansen, Tohoku Shinkansen, Akita Shinkansen, Yamagata Shinkansen, Joetsu Shinkansen, Tokaido Shinkansen, and Hokuriku Shinkansen.
Q: What is the Japan Rail Pass?
A: It is an unlimited train ticket sold to tourists visiting Japan.
