Hi Hokkaido travelers,

What’s the longest train ride you’ve ever had? Mine was from San Francisco to Seattle about 10 years ago, and it took…

24 hours!

The flight would have only taken 2 hours, but I was a university student trying to save money back then😁

But with Japan’s famous bullet train, Shinkansen, you’re guaranteed a fast and comfortable journey. Also, it can be budget-friendly!

My favorite part of taking Shinkansen is to watch the countryside views along the way. You need to try this too!

Now interested in taking Shinkansen? Here are 5 things you should know about it.

1. Shinkansen vs Flights

Shinkansen is more punctual, less affected by the weather, and hardly delayed or canceled. Bigger seats and leg rooms.

2. Did you know?

Not only between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka, but you can go to Hokkaido by Shinkansen! It takes just 4 hours from Tokyo to Hakodate, Hokkaido. The cost is about 23,000 JPY (150 USD).

3. How to book

You can easily book a ticket via Klook (the JR official website is confusing to navigate in English). You will receive a QR code to pick up physical tickets at the station.

4. Save your money

A JR pass allows you unlimited rides across Japan, including Shinkansen with seat reservations! Order your pass via Klook.

5. A must-eat!

Grab an Ekiben (station bento box) before boarding. Ekiben shops at the station offer many kinds of local food bento 😋

🚅 Want to know more? Check out my full blog post on how to take Shinkansen to Hokkaido: ticket types, pros & cons, and useful tips.

Happy trip planning!

Best,
Yuuka

P.S. Here are my top recommended​ resources.

✅ List of Hokkaido itineraries​

✅ My Hokkaido travel planners​

✅ The best hotels in Hokkaido​​​

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