If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one of the most convenient ways to travel around the country is by riding the Shinkansen bullet train. However, purchasing Shinkansen tickets can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Fortunately, if you’re in Singapore, there are several options available to help you purchase your tickets.
Before you buy your Shinkansen tickets, it’s important to understand the different types of tickets available. There are two main types of Shinkansen tickets: reserved and non-reserved. Reserved tickets guarantee you a seat on a specific train, while non-reserved tickets allow you to board any train without a reserved seat. It’s also important to note that Shinkansen tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a Japan Rail Pass.
If you’re looking to purchase Shinkansen tickets in Singapore, there are several options available. You can purchase tickets online through websites like Klook or Rakuten, or you can visit a physical branch to purchase your tickets in person. Additionally, if you plan on traveling extensively throughout Japan, you may want to consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass, which will allow you to ride the Shinkansen as much as you want during the validity period of your pass.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the different types of Shinkansen tickets available before purchasing.
- Purchase Shinkansen tickets online through websites like Klook or Rakuten, or in person at a physical branch.
- Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan on traveling extensively throughout Japan.
Understanding Shinkansen Ticket Types
If you’re planning to travel on the Shinkansen in Japan, it’s important to understand the different ticket types available. Here are the two main types of Shinkansen tickets:
Reserved vs Non-Reserved Seats
When you purchase a Shinkansen ticket, you can choose between a reserved seat and a non-reserved seat. A reserved seat means that you have a specific seat number assigned to you, while a non-reserved seat means that you can sit in any available seat in the designated non-reserved car.
If you prefer to have a guaranteed seat, then a reserved seat is the way to go. However, if you’re flexible and don’t mind taking your chances, a non-reserved seat can save you some money.
Ordinary Car vs Green Car
Another important choice you’ll need to make when purchasing a Shinkansen ticket is whether to travel in the ordinary car or the green car. The green car is the first class car and offers more spacious seating, better amenities, and a quieter ride. However, it’s also more expensive than the ordinary car.
The ordinary car is still comfortable and offers plenty of amenities, but it’s more affordable than the green car. If you’re on a budget, the ordinary car is a great choice.
When purchasing your Shinkansen ticket, keep in mind that the ticket price is made up of two parts: the base fare and the seat reservation fee. The base fare is the cost of the ticket itself, while the seat reservation fee is the cost of reserving a specific seat.
In summary, when purchasing Shinkansen tickets, you’ll need to decide between a reserved and non-reserved seat, as well as choosing between the ordinary car and the green car. Consider your budget and preferences when making your choice, and remember to factor in both the base fare and the seat reservation fee.
Purchasing Shinkansen Tickets in Singapore
If you are planning a trip to Japan and want to travel around the country by Shinkansen trains, you can purchase your tickets in Singapore. There are two main ways to purchase tickets for Shinkansen trains: online booking platforms and physical ticket counters.
Online Booking Platforms
One of the easiest ways to purchase Shinkansen tickets is through online booking platforms such as Klook. Klook offers a variety of Shinkansen tickets, including single-journey tickets and the highly convenient JR Whole Japan Rail Pass. You can also order your JR Pass online via Klook.
When booking online, you can pay with a credit card or other available payment methods. Klook also provides an English language option for its website, making it easier for English-speaking customers to purchase their tickets.
Physical Ticket Counters
If you prefer to purchase your Shinkansen tickets in person, you can visit a ticket counter. In Singapore, you can find ticket counters at the Japan Rail Pass Collection Centre in Tanjong Pagar. The centre offers a range of services, including ticketing for Shinkansen trains and the JR Pass.
You can also purchase your tickets at Narita Airport or at major train stations such as Shinjuku, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. At these ticket counters, you can pay with a credit card or cash.
Whether you choose to purchase your Shinkansen tickets online or at a physical ticket counter, it is important to plan ahead and book your tickets early to ensure availability. With the right planning, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey on Japan’s high-speed trains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can one procure Shinkansen tickets via the internet?
You can purchase Shinkansen tickets online with ease. You can use a reliable online travel agency like Klook to book your tickets. Klook offers Shinkansen tickets at affordable prices and you can pay using your DBS/POSB Debit Card to enjoy an 8% discount. Once you have booked your ticket, you will receive a QR code that you can scan at the train station to retrieve your train tickets.
Are Shinkansen tickets available for purchase at the train stations in Japan?
Yes, you can purchase Shinkansen tickets at the train stations in Japan. You can buy the tickets at the ticket counter or at the ticket vending machines available at the train stations. You can buy the tickets until just before departure, as long as they are available.
What’s the best way to secure Shinkansen tickets before my travel date?
The best way to secure Shinkansen tickets before your travel date is to book them online in advance. This will help you avoid long queues at the train stations and ensure that you get the tickets you need. You can book your tickets online through a reliable travel agency or through the official Japan Railways (JR) website.
Can I snap up Shinkansen tickets on the very day of travel?
Yes, you can buy Shinkansen tickets on the day of travel, but it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s best to book your tickets a few days in advance to secure your seat.
Is it necessary to book seats in advance for the Shinkansen journey?
It’s not mandatory to book seats in advance for the Shinkansen journey, but it’s highly recommended. Booking your seats in advance will ensure that you have a reserved seat on the train, and you won’t have to worry about standing for the entire journey. You can book your seats online or at the train station.
Where might one find Shinkansen tickets at a delightful price?
You can find Shinkansen tickets at a delightful price through various online travel agencies. Klook is a reliable online travel agency that offers Shinkansen tickets at affordable prices. You can also check out the official Japan Railways (JR) website for special deals and discounts. It’s recommended that you book your tickets in advance to take advantage of these deals.