How to Buy Japan Shinkansen Tickets: Complete Guide for Families (2025)

Buying Shinkansen tickets in Japan doesn't have to be complicated. After multiple trips to Japan with our three daughters, we've tested every method of purchasing bullet train tickets - from smartphone apps to station ticket booths. Whether you're planning your first bullet train journey or your tenth, this guide covers the three best ways to secure your seats on Japan's iconic high-speed rail network.

The Shinkansen remains one of Japan's most efficient and family-friendly transportation options, connecting major cities at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph). With proper planning, booking tickets becomes straightforward, even with children in tow.

Quick Answer: Best Ways to Buy Shinkansen Tickets

For convenience: Klook online booking with code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK for discounts
For flexibility: SmartEX app (official JR app)
For special trains: Station ticket booths (like Hello Kitty Shinkansen)
For personalized service: Let me book them for you as your travel advisor

Method 1: Klook - Easiest for International Travelers

Klook offers the most straightforward way to purchase Shinkansen tickets before arriving in Japan. This platform eliminates language barriers and provides guaranteed seat reservations.

Why Klook Works Best for Families

English interface: No need to navigate Japanese-language booking systems while managing travel logistics and children.

Advance booking: Purchase tickets weeks before travel, ensuring seat availability during peak seasons like cherry blossom season or Golden Week.

Family-friendly features: Select adjoining seats for families, specify luggage requirements, and choose preferred departure times.

Multiple payment options: Accepts international credit cards, PayPal, and other payment methods that work seamlessly for overseas travelers.

How to Book Shinkansen Tickets on Klook

1. Visit Klook's Shinkansen section
2. Select your route (Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Tokyo, etc.)
3. Choose travel dates and times
4. Select seat preferences (window, aisle, family seating)
5. Enter passenger information
6. Apply code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK for additional savings
7. Complete payment and receive confirmation

Klook Pricing and Options

Prices subject to change. Use code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK on Klook for potential discounts.

Method 2: SmartEX App - Official JR Solution

The SmartEX app represents JR's official digital ticketing platform. While requiring credit card registration upfront, this app provides the most comprehensive booking options directly from Japan Railways.

SmartEX App Features

Real-time availability: See exact seat availability and train schedules
Last-minute changes: Modify bookings up to departure time
IC card integration: Pick up tickets using Suica or other IC cards
Comprehensive routes: Access all Shinkansen lines including Hokuriku and Kyushu

Setting Up SmartEX

Download the app from your device's app store before traveling to Japan. The registration process requires several steps:

1. Create account with email address and password
2. Register credit card (required even to view prices - this initially surprised us)
3. Verify payment method through bank authorization
4. Set up IC card (optional but convenient for ticket collection)

Why We Use SmartEX Despite Initial Hesitation

Initially, the credit card requirement to simply browse ticket prices seemed excessive. However, after using SmartEX multiple times, we've found the system reliable and secure. The convenience of booking seats moments before travel, especially with unpredictable family schedules, makes the setup process worthwhile.

The app particularly shines when travel plans change - something that happens frequently with children. Whether Harper needs an extra bathroom stop or Lily wants to see a specific temple we passed, SmartEX allows ticket modifications without station visits.

SmartEX Booking Process

1. Open SmartEX app
2. Select departure and arrival stations (Sorted by order they appear on route rather than alphabetical)
3. Choose date and preferred departure time
4. Select car type (standard, Green Car, Gran Class)
5. Pick specific seats using the seat map
6. Confirm payment through registered credit card
7. Receive QR code for station pickup or IC card collection

Method 3: Station Ticket Booths - Best for Special Requests

Station ticket booths remain essential for specific needs like the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, special seasonal trains, or complex routing requests that apps cannot handle.

When Station Booths Are Necessary

Special trains: Hello Kitty Shinkansen, seasonal limited trains, or themed services
Complex routes: Multi-stop journeys with specific timing requirements
Group bookings: Large families or travel groups needing special seating arrangements
Accessibility needs: Wheelchair-accessible seating or other mobility accommodations

Our Hello Kitty Shinkansen Experience

When we wanted to surprise the girls with the Hello Kitty Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Hakata, online booking didn't guarantee we'd get the themed train. We spent an hour at Shin-Osaka Station's ticket office, but seeing Lily, Cora, and Harper's faces when they boarded that pink and white train covered in Hello Kitty designs made every minute worthwhile.

The station agent spoke limited English, but the universal language of pointing at Hello Kitty pictures and showing three excited children transcended any language barrier. Plus, we received special Hello Kitty boarding certificates that the girls still treasure.

Tips for Station Ticket Booth Success

Arrive early: Popular stations like Tokyo and Kyoto can have 30-60 minute waits during peak times

Bring written requests: Write down departure/arrival stations, dates, and times in both English and Japanese if possible

Have backup options: Be flexible with departure times if your preferred train is fully booked

Consider Green Car: If standard cars are sold out, Green Car often has availability and provides extra comfort for long journeys with children

Use translation apps: Google Translate's camera feature works well for reading station signs and ticket information

Method 4: Let Me Book for You - Personalized Travel Advisor Service

As a certified travel advisor, I can handle your entire Shinkansen booking process, ensuring you get the best routes, timing, and seat arrangements for your family's needs. This white-glove service takes the stress out of navigating multiple booking platforms and language barriers.

Why Choose Professional Booking Service

Expert route planning: I'll optimize your Shinkansen travel to align with your overall Japan itinerary, considering factors like luggage transfers, meal times, and children's schedules.

Best price guarantee: As a professional travel advisor, I have access to industry rates and can often secure better pricing than individual booking platforms.

Family-focused arrangements: I understand traveling with children and can secure optimal seating arrangements, request assistance for families with strollers, and coordinate timing with your accommodation check-ins.

Comprehensive support: Your booking includes ongoing support throughout your trip, not just ticket purchases.

What's Included in My Booking Service

• Route optimization: Best connections and timing for your specific itinerary
• Seat selection: Family-friendly seating arrangements with table seats when possible
• Luggage coordination: Oversized baggage reservations when needed
• Backup planning: Alternative departure times in case of delays or changes
• Digital ticket delivery: All confirmations and QR codes delivered to your email
• 24/7 trip support: Direct contact with me throughout your Japan travels

How the Process Works

1. Initial consultation: We'll discuss your Japan itinerary, travel dates, and family needs
2. Route recommendation: I'll propose optimal Shinkansen connections based on your plans
3. Booking confirmation: I handle all ticket purchases and seat assignments
4. Documentation delivery: You receive all tickets, confirmations, and travel instructions
5. Ongoing support: I'm available throughout your trip for any changes or assistance

This service works particularly well for families planning multiple Shinkansen journeys, first-time Japan visitors, or anyone who prefers having professional support rather than navigating booking systems independently.

Ready for personalized Shinkansen booking? Contact me at [email protected] to discuss your Japan travel plans.

Comparing Your Options: Which Method to Choose

Choose Klook When:

• Planning trips weeks or months in advance
• Wanting guaranteed English customer service
• Needing family seating arrangements confirmed before travel
• Preferring to handle all bookings before arriving in Japan
• Taking advantage of discount codes like ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK

Choose SmartEX When:

• Comfortable with app-based booking in Japan
• Wanting maximum flexibility for schedule changes
• Planning to make frequent Shinkansen trips
• Needing last-minute ticket purchases
• Already familiar with Japanese IC card systems

Choose Professional Booking When:

• Planning a complex Japan itinerary with multiple Shinkansen routes
• Wanting expert advice on optimal timing and connections
• Needing assistance with special requirements (accessibility, large groups)
• Preferring professional support throughout your entire trip
• Visiting Japan for the first time and wanting guidance from an expert
• Booking special trains like Hello Kitty Shinkansen
• Needing accessibility accommodations
• Having complex routing requirements
• Preferring face-to-face customer service
• Traveling during peak seasons when apps show no availability

Understanding Shinkansen Ticket Types and Classes

Standard Car (Regular Seat)

Best for: Most families and budget-conscious travelers
Features: Comfortable seating, adequate legroom, power outlets
Price: Base fare price shown in booking systems

Green Car (First Class)

Best for: Longer journeys, families wanting extra space
Features: Wider seats, more legroom, quieter cars, complimentary refreshments
Price: Approximately 35% premium over standard car

Gran Class (Premium First Class)

Best for: Special occasions, luxury travel experience
Features: Aircraft-style first-class seating, dedicated attendant service, gourmet meals
Price: Available only on select routes, significantly higher pricing

Money-Saving Tips for Family Shinkansen Travel

Book During Off-Peak Hours

Trains departing before 9 AM or after 6 PM often have better availability and sometimes lower prices through discount programs.

Consider Regional Passes

For multiple Shinkansen trips, regional JR passes provide better value than individual tickets. Calculate whether a 7, 14, or 21-day pass makes financial sense for your itinerary.

Use Family-Friendly Discount Codes

Klook offers periodic promotions. Always check for active discount codes like ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK before completing your booking.

Book Connecting Transportation Together

Many platforms offer package deals combining Shinkansen tickets with local transportation, potentially saving money on your overall travel costs.

Essential Tips for Riding the Shinkansen with Children

Luggage Considerations

Oversized baggage: Bags larger than 160cm total dimensions require advance reservation
Storage space: Limited overhead compartments fill quickly during peak travel
Rolling bags: Small wheeled bags fit under seats more easily than large suitcases

Food and Entertainment

Ekiben lunch boxes: Purchase these famous station lunch boxes for an authentic Japanese travel experience
Quiet entertainment: Download movies or games before boarding, as WiFi can be inconsistent
Window seats: Children love watching Japan's countryside blur past at 320 km/h

Practical Travel Tips

Arrive early: Board 5-10 minutes before departure to find seats and settle luggage
Keep tickets accessible: Conductors check tickets during the journey
Use restrooms strategically: Facilities are available onboard but can get busy
IC cards for snacks: Vending machines onboard accept Suica and other IC cards

Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong Station Names

Tokyo has multiple Shinkansen stations. Make sure you're booking from the correct departure point:

• Tokyo Station: Most Shinkansen lines
• Shinagawa Station: Tokaido Shinkansen alternative
• Ueno Station: Tohoku, Akita, Yamagata Shinkansen

Confusing Reserved vs Non-Reserved

Reserved seats: Guaranteed seating but higher cost
Non-reserved cars: First-come, first-served seating in specific cars
Peak travel: Non-reserved cars often completely full during holidays

Booking Wrong Dates

Double-check Japanese date formats (year-month-day) when using apps or websites to avoid booking tickets for the wrong travel day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children need Shinkansen tickets?

Children ages 6-11 pay half price for Shinkansen tickets. Children under 6 ride free when sitting on a parent's lap or sharing a seat. However, during busy periods, purchasing a separate ticket ensures your child has their own seat.

Can I change my Shinkansen ticket after booking?

Klook: Changes depend on the specific ticket type and terms of service SmartEX: Changes allowed up to departure time with possible fees Station purchases: Changes generally allowed at ticket offices before departure

What happens if I miss my reserved Shinkansen train?

Reserved tickets are typically valid only for the specific train booked. However, you can usually take a later train on the same day by using non-reserved cars, though seats aren't guaranteed.

Is it better to book individual tickets or a JR Pass?

For families making multiple Shinkansen trips over 7+ days, JR Passes often provide better value. For single or return journeys, individual tickets through Klook with discount codes usually cost less.

Can I use credit cards at station ticket machines?

Most modern ticket machines at major stations accept international credit cards. However, smaller stations may only accept cash or IC cards.

How early should I book Shinkansen tickets?

Peak seasons: Book 1-2 months in advance for Golden Week, cherry blossom season, and New Year Regular travel: 1-2 weeks advance booking ensures good seat selection Last-minute: Same-day booking often possible except during the busiest travel periods

Getting Ready for Your Shinkansen Adventure

The Shinkansen represents more than just transportation - it's an integral part of the Japanese travel experience. Whether you book through Klook's convenient platform, navigate the SmartEX app, or visit station ticket booths, you're about to experience one of the world's most efficient and comfortable train systems.

Remember to use code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK when booking through Klook for potential savings on your family's tickets. The bullet train journey itself often becomes one of the most memorable parts of any Japan trip, especially for children experiencing the incredible speed and engineering marvel for the first time.

For additional Japan travel planning, including accommodation recommendations and family-friendly activities, contact Lindsay at [email protected]. As a certified travel advisor specializing in family travel, she can help create comprehensive Japan itineraries that include Shinkansen journeys as part of your overall adventure.

Safe travels, and enjoy the ride!

FTC Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. When you book through our Klook link or use our discount code, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund our family travels and keeps our content free. We only recommend services we genuinely use and trust. All opinions are our own based on our extensive Japan travel experience.