Before we travelled to Japan, I spent hours reading about the Bullet Train—how it worked, where to get tickets, what to expect. But when we finally boarded ahead of our round Japan cruise, I realised a lot of what I’d read was outdated or just plain wrong.
For example, many sources claimed you can’t eat on the Shinkansen, but you absolutely can (and should!). Some guides skipped over how fast the train stops, or the extra charge for large luggage, which caught us off guard.
So, if you’re planning to take the Shinkansen, here are 10 things I wish I’d known before travelling—all based on first-hand experience.
The Japanese Bullet Trains, or Shinkansen, connect almost every corner of Japan—running north to Hakodate, west past Osaka and Hiroshima, and all the way down to Kagoshima. Most major cities have dedicated Shinkansen stations, often built separately from the older train hubs.
Stations like Shin-Yokohama or Shin-Kobe (for the cruise port) may be slightly outside the main city centre, but they’re well-connected and easy to reach. If you’re using the Bullet Train as part of a wider journey—including port stops—it’s worth checking station locations in advance to plan transfers smoothly.
What You Need to Know About the Bullet Train 👇
Based on my experiences taking the Shinkansen, here is what you need to know:
1. Navigating the Bullet Train: English Signs & What to Expect
Worried about navigating the Shinkansen system? Don’t be. Every station and train has English signage, making it easy to find your platform, check departure boards, and follow the journey.
If you’re not sure where to go, just look for the green “Shinkansen” signs—they’ll guide you to the right place. Some railway stations even have lines on the ground you can follow.
Allow yourself extra time at major stations like Tokyo Station because it is so big. We were lucky to have a guide from the Shangri La Hotel take us onto the train, and collect us upon our return.
On board, digital displays show the next stop, upcoming connections, and even speed updates.
The announcements are also in Japanese and English. Watch this short video, below, to hear what they sound like on board
2. How Fast Do Bullet Trains Stop? Be Ready to Board in 90 Seconds
Unlike traditional trains, the Shinkansen doesn’t linger at stations. In many cases, you’ll have 90 seconds or less to get on or off.
If you’re boarding at a midway station, be at the right spot on the platform before the train arrives. Your ticket will tell you your coach number, and the train will stop precisely where it should—so stand in line and be ready!
3. Bullet Train Luggage Rules: What You Need to Know Before Boarding
Much like flying, there are rules for luggage on the Bullet Train.
✔ Small bags fit in the overhead rack.✔ Larger suitcases must be booked in advance.✔ Unreserved luggage spaces fill up quickly.
If your suitcase is larger than 160cm (sum of length + width + height), you’ll need to reserve a specific luggage space. We didn’t know this on our first journey and had to wedge our bags above our seats—not ideal!
If you’re travelling with big suitcases, book a seat in the last row—there’s extra storage space behind the seats that’s free to use if you reserve it in advance.
4. Can You See Mount Fuji from the Bullet Train? Best Seats & Views
Yes, you can see Mount Fuji from the Bullet Train—but only if you’re sitting on the correct side of the carriage.
🗻 Travelling from Tokyo to Osaka? Sit on the right for the best views.🗻 Travelling from Osaka to Tokyo? Sit on the left.
The windows are relatively small, but the views are still spectacular. We managed to grab a few blurred-but-beautiful shots of Mount Fuji—a moment that made the journey even more special.
5. Can You Eat on the Bullet Train? Busting the Biggest Myth
One of the biggest misconceptions I read before travelling was that you can’t eat on the Bullet Train. That’s completely wrong.
Not only can you eat on board, but it’s actually part of the experience.
Japanese convenience stores sell beautifully packed bento boxes called Ekiben, specifically designed for train journeys. If you’re not prepared, a trolley service comes through the carriages offering snacks, drinks, and even hot meals.
I think we may have bought this egg sandwich on the platform but it was equally delicate not like British train food.
6. Charging Devices on the Shinkansen: Power Outlets & Adaptors
Need to charge your phone or laptop? Every window seat has a power socket.
✔ If you’re in a window seat, you’re covered.✔ If you’re in an aisle or middle seat, you may not have access.
The sockets are Japanese-style two-pin plugs, so bring an adaptor if you’re travelling from the UK. There were no USB sockets on our train journeys.
7. Does the Bullet Train Have WiFi? Connectivity Tips for Travellers
Yes, but it’s not great.
There is free WiFi on most Shinkansen routes, but speeds are slow, and the signal drops in tunnels. We found that our 4G/5G connection was far more reliable throughout the journey. You can find connection instructions on the back of the seat in front of you.
8. Bullet Train Smoking Rules: Where & How It Works
Unlike most trains, the Shinkansen has dedicated smoking rooms.
✔ Smoking carriages are clearly marked—they’re usually the Green Class cars.✔ Non-smoking passengers won’t be affected—the rooms are enclosed.✔ Smoking is not allowed in regular seats or near doors.
If you’re a smoker, make sure to book a seat near a smoking car for convenience.
9. Bullet Train Toilets: What to Expect on the Shinkansen
Japanese trains take toilets seriously, and the Shinkansen is no exception. They even have instructions!
✔ There are dedicated urinals for men.✔ There are Western-style toilets that are clean and spacious.✔ Some trains even have baby-changing stations inside the toilets.
After experiencing British train toilets, the Shinkansen was a revelation! No I didn’t take pictures!
10. Changing Bullet Train Tickets is Surprisingly Easy
Worried about changing your Shinkansen tickets? Don’t be. I had to swap our return tickets to get seats with extra luggage space, and it was surprisingly simple. A quick visit to the ticket office, a bit of Google Translate, and the staff sorted everything at no extra cost depending on which train you swap.
If you need to adjust your travel plans, just head to the Shinkansen ticket counter (different to the normal ticket counters), and they’ll help—no hassle, no stress.
Final Thoughts: The Bullet Train Experience
Riding the Bullet Train was one of the highlights of our Japan trip—fast, smooth, and efficient.
The only stressful part was managing luggage on our first journey (since we didn’t pre-book space). But on the way back, we knew exactly where to store our bags and could sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
One of our favourite small details? Every time the conductor enters or leaves the carriage, they stop, turn, and bow to the passengers. It’s a tiny gesture, but one that perfectly sums up the grace and respect that makes travelling in Japan so unique.
✔ Would I recommend the Shinkansen? Absolutely.✔ Is it easy to navigate? Yes—especially if you follow these tips.
If you’re heading to Japan, I hope this guide helps!
