Amazing video, the most complete video I've seen so far. Thanks a lot for sharing. During the video for the ticket options 0:41 I wanted a deeper explanation, for the readers: 1. Shinkansen (reserved seats and fare ticket) What it includes: This option combines both the basic fare ticket (for the distance traveled) and the limited express fare with a reserved seat. Key Features: Reserved seating means you’ll have an assigned seat, guaranteeing you a specific place on the train. The ticket price will include both the distance (basic fare) and the Shinkansen surcharge (limited express fare). When to choose: If you prefer to guarantee a seat, especially during peak times or on busy routes like Tokyo-Osaka. 2. Shinkansen (non-reserved seats and fare ticket) What it includes: This option also combines the basic fare ticket and the limited express fare, but with a non-reserved seat. Key Features: Non-reserved seating means you can sit in any available seat in the non-reserved cars of the Shinkansen, but seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The ticket includes the same basic fare and Shinkansen surcharge, but it’s usually a little cheaper than the reserved seat option. When to choose: If you want more flexibility or if traveling during off-peak hours when seats are likely available. 3. Shinkansen Limited Express What it includes: This option only covers the limited express fare, which is the surcharge for using the Shinkansen. Key Features: This is not a complete ticket-you would still need to purchase a separate basic fare ticket to travel. It’s essentially the additional fee required for using the Shinkansen service, but it does not include the basic fare (the standard distance-based charge). When to choose: You might select this option if you already have a basic fare ticket (for example, if you're combining with another type of ticket, like a rail pass or if you're extending a regular train journey onto the Shinkansen). 4. Shinkansen (fare ticket) What it includes: This is just the basic fare ticket, which covers the cost of traveling between two stations based on distance. Key Features: This does not include the Shinkansen surcharge (limited express fare), meaning you can’t use this alone to board the Shinkansen. You can use this ticket on regular trains (local, rapid, etc.) on the same route, but you’ll need to buy an additional limited express ticket if you want to use the Shinkansen. When to choose: Choose this if you only need the basic fare (for example, if you plan to take a non-Shinkansen train or need to buy the limited express fare separately).
this is the BEST JAPAN TRAVEL channel ever, thank you so much!!! The guides are so easy to understand and straight forward, looking forward to my trip to Japan in about a week :D
Hi there, great question! The right side at 04:34 is the bottom ones. The arrows all the way to the right show the direction the train is travelling in - so you want the right side of the train going to Osaka/Kyoto and the left side of the train travelling to Tokyo.
We can't register any of our cards (Australian Visa with different banks) with Smart Ex at all. We've treid multiple times. Has anyone found a solution for this. Our banks are no help.
I’m traveling to Japan in two months and this was the most concise and easy to follow guide. Thank you! One question, if we take the tickets in the station machines 3 days in advance is enough to book it or could be is already full?
We’re really glad you found the video helpful! Late March is peak season for travel so you may find the shinkansen getting full. If you’re flexible with your times, 3 days in advance may be enough for booking or you could also purchase a non-reserved ticket. However, you’re not guaranteed a seat with this option, so you’d want to arrive early to secure one.
You need both. If you have a rail pass then it might cover the basic fare. In that case there's a button on the first screen to buy just the express fare(sometimes called seat reservation fee)
Great video! :) Quick question: after registering my suica card in the app, does the newly purches tickect automaticly connect to it or you have to do it manually?
One important thing you completely omitted is generally, do you really need to get tickets in advance or can I just get it when I am in country and the day of travel? I.e. in Italy, going from city to city, you almost have to reserve them in advance... same goes with Korea if you go from Seoul to Busan.
Generally speaking, the trains are frequent(hourly or so) and you don’t need to book in advance everytime. Of my 5 years living there, i have only booked a ticket in advance only once, and that one time was when i overslept and missed the train haha so i opted to not book in advance in the future. Makes for a more flexible journey. Though, those were the pre-covid times and i am aware that tourism is blooming in Japan. So don’t take my word for it as trains might be fully booked due to peak periods.
Wow, very valuable information. Thank you. I've been trying to find this info, it's very inconsistent. Lot of people say to get the Japan rail pass... which seems like a waste of money for one or two trips.@@FahmiKhairil
Hi what’s the difference between the Shinkansen (reserved sear and fare ticket) and the shinkansen (fare ticket)? I hear there’s a basic fare for every train ride, but can we pay for the Shinkansen fare ticket with welcome suica card at the entry gates ? Do we have to buy the basic fare ticket at the machine?
this is soooo great. I am currently planning a trip to Japan with friends and I am looking for information about this because it's quite confusing. Thank you soooo much! Just subscribed! I will definitely be watching most of this channel's videos before going. :D
Loved this how informative this video was, thank you!! My girlfriend and I are visiting Japan in August and I'm still unsure whether we need a JR pass in addition to the Suica Cards we'll be getting on our phones. We plan to use the Suica card for getting around Tokyo for about a week and a half, then spending the second half of our trip visiting Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. Would purchasing both be wise? Or what do you think the best option would be?
Glad to hear the video was helpful for you! With the JR Pass now being 50,000 yen per person, it won't be worth it if just traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. You can use the Suica card outside of Tokyo as well, so we recommend doing that for travel in the cities and buying individual shinkansen tickets for travel between cities 😊
Hi there! It depends on the time and route you're taking but generally we suggest getting tickets in advance. For example, travelling between Tokyo and Kyoto in spring will be quite busy so it's best to get tickets before the day. Other shinkansen lines and times of year like winter (besides New Year) will be less busy.
@@tokyocheapo Thank you so much, we are going in September. Our hotel is very close to station so we will take your advice and buy the tickets a day before we leave :D
A bit late I know but I'd also add that the JR West site allows you to book any train (shinkansen and regular trains) operated by JR West, Central, Shikoku and Kyushu, as well as the JR East trains in Kanto (incl Joetsu and Hokuriku shinkansen). This is useful if you want to book non-shinkansen trains such as the Hida train to/from Takayama, as ekinet allows booking of non-shinkansens in the JR East area, but not elsewhere, and SmartEx is shinkansen only, no regular trains.
Hi there, thanks for watching! 😊 Yes you can use a Welcome Suica card, just be aware of some of the precautions listed on the Smart-Ex website: smart-ex.jp/en/faq/category/detail/?id=484
5:32 Hi again! What do you mean the "separated QR code"? The website give you two QR code or is the same that you use to obtain the paper tickets at the machine. Can you collect the tickets with that QR Code or just go to the pass machine with the same QR code? Thanks in advance
This is so helpful! I'm traveling to Japan soon with a couple of people. If I have tickets for 4 people and my SmartEx account is connected to 1 IC card (mine) will I be able to tap all 4 of us through the gate or is it better to just buy separately?
Hi! I,ve just bought two tickets following your guide so thank you for helping us! I have a question though; I have bought two seats so, if I link the reservation to my ic card, do I have to scan it twice when passing through the gates? Or tapping it in once is enough for both person? Thank you!
Thanks for the super helpful information! Is it possible to buy tickets before getting a Suica card, and then adding the ticket to the card after I get it? I'm not in Japan yet, but I was thinking of booking our first train in two weeks. Otherwise I will have four days once we are in Japan, so does it make sense to wait until I have a Suica card?
If we reserve a seat on the smart ex app so we select “pick up ticket” option on the left side or the “pick up reserved seat” option on the bottom right side? At 0:40
Hi there! It does work but you'll need to also download the "Suica" app so that you can access the ID number for your Suica card. Once you input this number into your reservation, the ticket will be loaded on the Suica card in your wallet.
Thank you so much for your advice about getting tickets more than 1 month in advance through the 3rd party sites. Are there any methods to get japan central railway tickets more than 1 month in advance? I'm trying to get from Nagoya to Takayama the morning/afternoon of the first day of the autumn festival. It seems my only option is the Hida limited express and there's only a few of them each day. I know there's going to be a lot of competition for these seats to get to the festival so if there's anything at all anybody could suggest I would be eternally grateful.
Your videos is really helpful for me - Thanks a lot! I've got a little question: can I get all my tickets I booked with smartEX and got an QR code for in advance at one ticket machine? Like I'm planning trips from Tokyo to Yokohame to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Fukuoka to Osaka - by arriving in Tokyo is it possible to get all tickets printet at the machine so I haven't to worry about that later on? Thank you in advance for answering! 🙇♀
Amazing video and a big fan of your videos. Unfortunately I'm unable to buy tickets online as my cards were not recognized, I saw some reviews say lot of people experience the same. For the ticket machine, what are the chances of getting a seat on the day, is it hard normally (first time to Japan, thus the question) or should I always book in advance. Also, do I always need to get both the base fare and shinkansen, wouldn't the base be covered in it already (Eg: From Odawara to Kyoto or Kyoto to Osaka)
@user-kg2to7ey2l it was not. Avoid periods like golden week. However I bought tickets either the day before or 2 days before and all was good. The only exception could be if you have a lot of luggage then you may not be able to get luggage storage at the back but in a different storage area. Your biggest luggage can also go on top and it's safe and secure.
Same visa, Mastercard mine and my spouse as well. Call them and they were asking if my cards were 3d secure ready. They all are. We have used them abroad for the last 3 years (being expats). Just not working.
This was so helpful! I just bought reserved Green Car tickets via Smartex and generated a QR and Pick Up code. Would you know if I can collect the tickets via ticket counter/office instead of using the machine? I also have an IC card but would want to have a physical ticket as a keepsake. Haha
Glad to hear it was helpful for you! For pick up, it needs to be from a JR West, JR Central or JR Kyushu ticket counter, or otherwise a ticket machine in JR East stations (ie. in Tokyo). When using a QR code or IC card through the shinkansen gates, you'll get a piece of paper with "seat information". While this isn't like the normal, green tickets, it could do the trick if you're looking for a keepsake.
@@tokyocheapo Thank you, regarding using IC, I know it’s automated and all but will it recognize when it’s being used in a Shinkansen gate like won’t it consume remaining credits inside once I tap out? (I will be tapping out, right since the paper slip from the gates are just seat information not tickets) Sorry, this is the first time if ever I will be linking IC to take the Shinkansen. Also, I reserved two seats, do I assume that it will ask for two IC cards? Thank you again!
@@daemonneko Hi there! Yes that's right you need to tap out as well but it'll recognise that you've linked a shinkansen ticket to the IC card so it won't use your credits 😊That's right about the number as well, you'll need two IC cards for two shinkansen tickets.
Hi! You mentioned in the video you can connect your suica card to Shinkansen. Is there a process for it? or do I just top up my suica and use it when I want to go through Shinkansen? Thanks in advance Edit: I forgot to ask does it work for virtual suica as well? I am traveling in two weeks and I’m so excited!
On the member registration screen of Smart EX, there is a section for registering a transportation system IC card. (I think that is under the credit card registration section) Enter the IC card number there (if it is Suica, enter the number starting with JE). For Mobile Suica, if you are an iphone user, tap the i-mark on the screen when you start up your phone to confirm. If you are an Android user, you can check it by tapping on something called Suica Management from the member menu (I don't know if this translation is correct as I don't know the English version of Suica's screen). Then just put your IC card number into the Smart EX screen in the same way. (I am Japanese, so I used Deepl translation.）
Going next month... No problem with getting the tickets with Smart X now and bound my suica card until next month right? Any update for Haneda and Suica or still applies your video about it? Thanks a lot for such amazing content! Regards from Costa Rica
Great video, so helpful :) Just wondering, if you buy tickets online and receive a QR code, how far in advance can you get the physical tickets from a machine at the station? Does it have to be the same day as departure or can you go there whenever? Thanks!
You can still travel on trains the same day using the unreserved seats. If the route doesn’t have unreserved seats, then you can ask the JR office for help.
Hi need help, in Europe i can net use the app of Smart-ex. can i download qr as a file on my and use it ? Or maybe print it and scan it on the station?
Im trying to buy my ticket through smart-ex but for some reason I don't see the option to view seat map at 4:16 portion of the video. In fact, I don't see it anywhere even when I arrived at the last final step, how do I get reserve seat?
Thanks for your vid. Is it possible to get a shinkhansen ticket at the moment when you like to go. Or do I have to book it in advanced? What happens if I bought a ticket and I am to late? Can I get the next one without paying again? We are there in March and April, first time ❤ thanks really appreciate your answer
Hi there! You can get a ticket from the station ticket machine or the ticket counter on the day you'd like to go. If you're travelling on one of the main shinkansen lines like Tokyo -> Osaka in peak times, we wouldn't recommend this though as it gets very crowded at the station and it'll be difficult to book a reserved seat. Shinkansen tickets are valid for the whole day you bought them, so if you miss your train you can catch the next one and use the non-reserved seats 😊
Thanks!@@tokyocheapo Quick question tho: I just bought tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto following these steps on the app. Does "Tokyo" on my ticket stand for "Tokyo Station"? And the same for "Kyoto"?
¿Can you pick up the tickets purchase at the ekinet in the ticket machines or do you have to get them in the East JR line travel center in the Tokyo station?
Can’t register on smart ex. It doesn’t accept any credit card in the US. Tried visa, Mastercard and discover. Even tried an international card called wise. Please help
@@supahsofa Thanks. I bought mine on JR West website. They accepted my card. I will have to pick a physical card at the train station at Tokyo or Shinagawa. Amex is a good tip, unfortunately no one I know has one.
Can I charge my US credit card with pin to my IC (Pasmo or Suica)? I heard that the credit card will consider that cash advance or just a regular credit charge??
You should be able to charge a mobile Suica with a US card, AMEX is known to work best. However you can't charge a physical Sucia card with a credit card - you need to use cash. See our Suica Guide video: ua-cam.com/video/nU5bZIGVeAo/v-deo.html
Hi there! If you're doing a reasonable amount of travel even in 3 days, the Suica card will make it a lot more seamless and convenient as you don't have to work out fares each time you hop on the train. If you have an iPhone, you can add Suica to your Apple wallet 😊
hi I will be in Japan in November. I still don't understand the limited express only selection, what does it mean? In which cases should it be clicked instead of the standards?
Very informative video. Your content is very helpful in planning a trip to Japan. Hopefully you can answer a question for me. I'm know Shinjuku station does not have a Shinkansen line, but do you know if there are Shinkansen ticketing machine there? Or can I purchase a single ticket at the JR East Travel center for the Tokaido Shinkansen?
You can buy Shinkansen tickets at shinjuku, there should be machines and there’s definitely a JR service centre for buying tickets over the counter too.
Did you find out? If you have iphone you can add Suica card in your apple wallet and link eticket. I think that is the only way to use eticket but imk 100%. I added card to my wallet but did not buy any ticket yet until Dec 23.
Another question… sorry I’m just so lost 😅 I’m interested in the QR code from Tokyo to Kyoto. Does the Tokyo station have QR code scanners on the entry gate? Can we also book tickets in one purchase like I plan on going from Tokyo to Kyoto but then plan to return from Osaka to Tokyo. Can I reserve tickets like this?
Trains on the Shinkansen, especially those traveling between popular destinations like Tokyo and Osaka, can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times or holidays. To ensure you have a seat and to potentially save some money, it's generally a good idea to book your ticket in advance, especially if you have specific travel times in mind.
I was watching another youtuber buy tickets, and I noticed something. What would be the difference in picking Shin-Osaka from either lines or Hakata from either lines? For example, going from Shinagawa to Shin-Osaka. Is there a difference in picking from the same shinkansen line?
If you used SmartEX to purchase your ticket, on the reservation details screen, you can register a new IC card. This involves inputting your IC card number which is located on the back of the physical card.
Hi there! Yes at some bigger stations you are able to pick up tickets at the reserved seat ticket vending machine or you can collect them from a JR East travel service center.
So I try to Book a Ticket with a Transfer, do I really need 2 Tickets? For each of the Shinkansen rides? And can I buy e-Tickets if I have a suica Card just in my Apple wallet or do I need a physical one?
Once purchased on Smart Ex, where can I find these machines to get thr paper ticket? We arrive late to Haneda and will go to out hotel in Yokohama. The next morning we will take the Shinkansen from yokohama to Osaka. I believe we have to go to shin-Yokohama to catch the train. Just now sure where I can get the paper ticket if prepurchased on Smart Ex. Thanks.
Hello! I received the QR codes for each of our tickets. Do we still need physical tickets to board? The smartex FAQ says we can just scan it at the gate.
Hi there! You can use just the QR code as the SmartEX FAQ says, however, just be aware that at some stations not all ticket gates have the QR code reader. For example, at Tokyo Station, you need to enter through the dedicated shinkansen gates at the Yaesu entrance/exit. You can't enter with the QR code from the Marunouchi side.
Can you reserve the number of the seat with Klook or they do it by themselves randomly? Thanks in advance. I mean, if i want it to go at the right of the train, could i choose that with that website?
When booking Shinkansen tickets through platforms like Klook, you usually can't reserve a specific seat number. Instead, you'll receive a reserved seat in a specific car of the train, but the exact seat number within that car is assigned by the system, and it can vary depending on availability.
@@tokyocheapoThanks for the information. Is there any way of website to reserve the seat? I mean, i would like to go at the right, to see the Mt. Fuji. Thanks in advance
For mid-March 2024 Shinkansen tickets, we recommend booking well in advance to secure your preferred schedule and ensure availability. It's advisable to plan ahead for a smoother travel experience. Safe travels!
Can I purchase multiple tickets on Smart Ex for my family members? If so, how do I get the individual tickets for each member? Or can I transfer the tickets onto their mobile SUICA card?
When you buy 2 tickets on Smart EX, are both tickets linked to one Suica card or can you say on the app to link one ticket to another card? Also, I ordered a Kansai-Hiroshima pass so is there any site to book seats online for JR West since eki net is just for JR East.
Hi there! You can't use your Suica card to travel on the shinkansen in the same way you would for local trains. But you can purchase a shinkansen ticket online at one of the sites mentioned in the video and connect the ticket to your Suica card (using the number on the back of your Suica). That way, you can use your Suica card to tap in and out of the gates.
Literally watched it while standing in queue at the machine. Very helpful, thank you!! 😅
Haha glad it was helpful! Enjoy your trip!
I was so overwhelmed and confused until this video, thank you!
Same!
I'm traveling alone to Japan tomorrow and this is really helpful. Thank you!
I go to Japan twice a year and I still found this VERY helpful!! Thank you!
You're so welcome!
Amazing video, the most complete video I've seen so far. Thanks a lot for sharing. During the video for the ticket options 0:41 I wanted a deeper explanation, for the readers:
1. Shinkansen (reserved seats and fare ticket)
What it includes: This option combines both the basic fare ticket (for the distance traveled) and the limited express fare with a reserved seat.
Key Features:
Reserved seating means you’ll have an assigned seat, guaranteeing you a specific place on the train.
The ticket price will include both the distance (basic fare) and the Shinkansen surcharge (limited express fare).
When to choose: If you prefer to guarantee a seat, especially during peak times or on busy routes like Tokyo-Osaka.
2. Shinkansen (non-reserved seats and fare ticket)
What it includes: This option also combines the basic fare ticket and the limited express fare, but with a non-reserved seat.
Key Features:
Non-reserved seating means you can sit in any available seat in the non-reserved cars of the Shinkansen, but seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The ticket includes the same basic fare and Shinkansen surcharge, but it’s usually a little cheaper than the reserved seat option.
When to choose: If you want more flexibility or if traveling during off-peak hours when seats are likely available.
3. Shinkansen Limited Express
What it includes: This option only covers the limited express fare, which is the surcharge for using the Shinkansen.
Key Features:
This is not a complete ticket-you would still need to purchase a separate basic fare ticket to travel.
It’s essentially the additional fee required for using the Shinkansen service, but it does not include the basic fare (the standard distance-based charge).
When to choose: You might select this option if you already have a basic fare ticket (for example, if you're combining with another type of ticket, like a rail pass or if you're extending a regular train journey onto the Shinkansen).
4. Shinkansen (fare ticket)
What it includes: This is just the basic fare ticket, which covers the cost of traveling between two stations based on distance.
Key Features:
This does not include the Shinkansen surcharge (limited express fare), meaning you can’t use this alone to board the Shinkansen.
You can use this ticket on regular trains (local, rapid, etc.) on the same route, but you’ll need to buy an additional limited express ticket if you want to use the Shinkansen.
When to choose: Choose this if you only need the basic fare (for example, if you plan to take a non-Shinkansen train or need to buy the limited express fare separately).
very helpful, thanks a lot!
This was super helpful --- thank you so much for simplifying something that other videos made feel so complicated!
You're so welcome!
this is the BEST JAPAN TRAVEL channel ever, thank you so much!!! The guides are so easy to understand and straight forward, looking forward to my trip to Japan in about a week :D
Bruh... this video is crystal clear. Superb explanation ❤
Hi! :)
I would like to see Fuji when travelling to Osaka or Kyoto, The right side on that image 04:34 would be the top ones right? I m a bit confused😅
Hi there, great question! The right side at 04:34 is the bottom ones. The arrows all the way to the right show the direction the train is travelling in - so you want the right side of the train going to Osaka/Kyoto and the left side of the train travelling to Tokyo.
@@tokyocheapo Thank you so much🫶🏻🤍 Your videos are really helpful🥰
We can't register any of our cards (Australian Visa with different banks) with Smart Ex at all. We've treid multiple times. Has anyone found a solution for this. Our banks are no help.
Same issue here, Mastercard doesn’t work either
Same here
Update is we got my wife’s work Mastercard to work.
@@Grant_Ferstat do you know what company? Is it Canadian mastercard?
@@ryanasksaround no it isn’t. We’re in Australia.
I’m traveling to Japan in two months and this was the most concise and easy to follow guide. Thank you! One question, if we take the tickets in the station machines 3 days in advance is enough to book it or could be is already full?
We’re really glad you found the video helpful! Late March is peak season for travel so you may find the shinkansen getting full. If you’re flexible with your times, 3 days in advance may be enough for booking or you could also purchase a non-reserved ticket. However, you’re not guaranteed a seat with this option, so you’d want to arrive early to secure one.
Very helpful!! For the IC card option will it work if I'm using a digital Suica card on my Apple Wallet?
Thank you for much for the video . I have been stressing hard about getting - Shinkansen ticket and this put my mind at ease!
I was able to book a train from Tokyo to Toyama thanks to your video. I appreciate it!!
apki vajah se hamare paise bach gaye. Bhaut shukriya. Klook par mhenga tha.
Thank you ! This video is very helpful, I was so overwhelmed by all the videos out there. This one is by far the best !
We're glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!
At 2:52, what does getting the basic fare and limited express fare mean? Do I have to get both? 😅
You need both. If you have a rail pass then it might cover the basic fare. In that case there's a button on the first screen to buy just the express fare(sometimes called seat reservation fee)
Great video! :)
Quick question: after registering my suica card in the app, does the newly purches tickect automaticly connect to it or you have to do it manually?
One important thing you completely omitted is generally, do you really need to get tickets in advance or can I just get it when I am in country and the day of travel? I.e. in Italy, going from city to city, you almost have to reserve them in advance... same goes with Korea if you go from Seoul to Busan.
Generally speaking, the trains are frequent(hourly or so) and you don’t need to book in advance everytime. Of my 5 years living there, i have only booked a ticket in advance only once, and that one time was when i overslept and missed the train haha so i opted to not book in advance in the future. Makes for a more flexible journey.
Though, those were the pre-covid times and i am aware that tourism is blooming in Japan. So don’t take my word for it as trains might be fully booked due to peak periods.
Wow, very valuable information. Thank you. I've been trying to find this info, it's very inconsistent. Lot of people say to get the Japan rail pass... which seems like a waste of money for one or two trips.@@FahmiKhairil
Hi what’s the difference between the Shinkansen (reserved sear and fare ticket) and the shinkansen (fare ticket)? I hear there’s a basic fare for every train ride, but can we pay for the Shinkansen fare ticket with welcome suica card at the entry gates ? Do we have to buy the basic fare ticket at the machine?
4:28 Thank you for the info on Mt Fuji! We are planning to go next year and your videos are helpful! Subscribed and liked!
Thank you for watching and subscribing!
this is soooo great. I am currently planning a trip to Japan with friends and I am looking for information about this because it's quite confusing. Thank you soooo much!
Just subscribed! I will definitely be watching most of this channel's videos before going. :D
Loved this how informative this video was, thank you!! My girlfriend and I are visiting Japan in August and I'm still unsure whether we need a JR pass in addition to the Suica Cards we'll be getting on our phones. We plan to use the Suica card for getting around Tokyo for about a week and a half, then spending the second half of our trip visiting Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. Would purchasing both be wise? Or what do you think the best option would be?
Glad to hear the video was helpful for you! With the JR Pass now being 50,000 yen per person, it won't be worth it if just traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. You can use the Suica card outside of Tokyo as well, so we recommend doing that for travel in the cities and buying individual shinkansen tickets for travel between cities 😊
Thanks for this great video. Just wondering if its better to book the ticket the day before?
Hi there! It depends on the time and route you're taking but generally we suggest getting tickets in advance. For example, travelling between Tokyo and Kyoto in spring will be quite busy so it's best to get tickets before the day. Other shinkansen lines and times of year like winter (besides New Year) will be less busy.
@@tokyocheapo Thank you so much, we are going in September. Our hotel is very close to station so we will take your advice and buy the tickets a day before we leave :D
going oct 25th! thank you so much for all the helpful info 😀
Hello! If I buy a round trip ticket, will the machine issue me separate tickets? Thanks for the great info and videos
Thank you for this super clear and helpful video. Can I ask if we need to worry about tickets being sold out on the day we wish to travel?
Yes, especially for weekend travel and during peak seasons, Shinkansen services can be fully booked
A bit late I know but I'd also add that the JR West site allows you to book any train (shinkansen and regular trains) operated by JR West, Central, Shikoku and Kyushu, as well as the JR East trains in Kanto (incl Joetsu and Hokuriku shinkansen).
This is useful if you want to book non-shinkansen trains such as the Hida train to/from Takayama, as ekinet allows booking of non-shinkansens in the JR East area, but not elsewhere, and SmartEx is shinkansen only, no regular trains.
Wow such a great video, I have a question? if I get the welcome suica card can I link my online ticket purchase to that card?
Hi there, thanks for watching! 😊 Yes you can use a Welcome Suica card, just be aware of some of the precautions listed on the Smart-Ex website: smart-ex.jp/en/faq/category/detail/?id=484
Thanks for the great video and information. Is it easy enough to buy Shinkansen tickets at the ticket office on the day you're travelling?
5:32 Hi again! What do you mean the "separated QR code"? The website give you two QR code or is the same that you use to obtain the paper tickets at the machine. Can you collect the tickets with that QR Code or just go to the pass machine with the same QR code? Thanks in advance
This is so helpful! I'm traveling to Japan soon with a couple of people. If I have tickets for 4 people and my SmartEx account is connected to 1 IC card (mine) will I be able to tap all 4 of us through the gate or is it better to just buy separately?
Hello! Glad it was helpful 😊 Each person will need to tap through separately. You can assign each ticket to a separate IC card from your account.
Hi! I,ve just bought two tickets following your guide so thank you for helping us! I have a question though; I have bought two seats so, if I link the reservation to my ic card, do I have to scan it twice when passing through the gates? Or tapping it in once is enough for both person? Thank you!
Thanks for the super helpful information! Is it possible to buy tickets before getting a Suica card, and then adding the ticket to the card after I get it? I'm not in Japan yet, but I was thinking of booking our first train in two weeks. Otherwise I will have four days once we are in Japan, so does it make sense to wait until I have a Suica card?
Hi there! Yes you can add the Suica card at a later date from the reservation details screen.
If we reserve a seat on the smart ex app so we select “pick up ticket” option on the left side or the “pick up reserved seat” option on the bottom right side? At 0:40
Thank you so much for this video! Very helpful :) Just one question, does the Suica on Apple Wallet work for adding the Shinkansen tickets on it?
Hi there! It does work but you'll need to also download the "Suica" app so that you can access the ID number for your Suica card. Once you input this number into your reservation, the ticket will be loaded on the Suica card in your wallet.
This is great, broken down very simply!
I loved the video. I want to buy from Tokyo to Kyoto. Does the price change if I buy in advance online?
Thank you so much for your advice about getting tickets more than 1 month in advance through the 3rd party sites. Are there any methods to get japan central railway tickets more than 1 month in advance? I'm trying to get from Nagoya to Takayama the morning/afternoon of the first day of the autumn festival. It seems my only option is the Hida limited express and there's only a few of them each day. I know there's going to be a lot of competition for these seats to get to the festival so if there's anything at all anybody could suggest I would be eternally grateful.
Your videos is really helpful for me - Thanks a lot! I've got a little question: can I get all my tickets I booked with smartEX and got an QR code for in advance at one ticket machine? Like I'm planning trips from Tokyo to Yokohame to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Fukuoka to Osaka - by arriving in Tokyo is it possible to get all tickets printet at the machine so I haven't to worry about that later on?
Thank you in advance for answering! 🙇♀
This is so helpful! Thank you for explaining this so clearly!
Glad to hear it was helpful! Thanks for watching 😊
Thanks for making this video! Very easy to understand
Amazing video and a big fan of your videos. Unfortunately I'm unable to buy tickets online as my cards were not recognized, I saw some reviews say lot of people experience the same. For the ticket machine, what are the chances of getting a seat on the day, is it hard normally (first time to Japan, thus the question) or should I always book in advance. Also, do I always need to get both the base fare and shinkansen, wouldn't the base be covered in it already (Eg: From Odawara to Kyoto or Kyoto to Osaka)
hello was it full when you arrived ?
@user-kg2to7ey2l it was not. Avoid periods like golden week. However I bought tickets either the day before or 2 days before and all was good. The only exception could be if you have a lot of luggage then you may not be able to get luggage storage at the back but in a different storage area. Your biggest luggage can also go on top and it's safe and secure.
That EX website doesn't accept my visa 😢
Same here
Same visa, Mastercard mine and my spouse as well. Call them and they were asking if my cards were 3d secure ready. They all are. We have used them abroad for the last 3 years (being expats). Just not working.
Super helpful and clear advice. Thank you so much!
You are welcome!
This was so helpful! I just bought reserved Green Car tickets via Smartex and generated a QR and Pick Up code. Would you know if I can collect the tickets via ticket counter/office instead of using the machine? I also have an IC card but would want to have a physical ticket as a keepsake. Haha
Glad to hear it was helpful for you! For pick up, it needs to be from a JR West, JR Central or JR Kyushu ticket counter, or otherwise a ticket machine in JR East stations (ie. in Tokyo). When using a QR code or IC card through the shinkansen gates, you'll get a piece of paper with "seat information". While this isn't like the normal, green tickets, it could do the trick if you're looking for a keepsake.
@@tokyocheapo Thank you, regarding using IC, I know it’s automated and all but will it recognize when it’s being used in a Shinkansen gate like won’t it consume remaining credits inside once I tap out? (I will be tapping out, right since the paper slip from the gates are just seat information not tickets) Sorry, this is the first time if ever I will be linking IC to take the Shinkansen. Also, I reserved two seats, do I assume that it will ask for two IC cards? Thank you again!
@@daemonneko Hi there! Yes that's right you need to tap out as well but it'll recognise that you've linked a shinkansen ticket to the IC card so it won't use your credits 😊That's right about the number as well, you'll need two IC cards for two shinkansen tickets.
@@tokyocheapo thank you for always responding! You are a big help! Thank you!
Thanks for sharing the video! I just want to ask you about Hello kitty train can I use it go to Kyoto from Tokyo? Or from Kyoto to Osaka city? Thanks
Hi! You mentioned in the video you can connect your suica card to Shinkansen. Is there a process for it? or do I just top up my suica and use it when I want to go through Shinkansen? Thanks in advance
Edit: I forgot to ask does it work for virtual suica as well? I am traveling in two weeks and I’m so excited!
On the member registration screen of Smart EX, there is a section for registering a transportation system IC card. (I think that is under the credit card registration section)
Enter the IC card number there (if it is Suica, enter the number starting with JE).
For Mobile Suica, if you are an iphone user, tap the i-mark on the screen when you start up your phone to confirm.
If you are an Android user, you can check it by tapping on something called Suica Management from the member menu (I don't know if this translation is correct as I don't know the English version of Suica's screen).
Then just put your IC card number into the Smart EX screen in the same way. (I am Japanese, so I used Deepl translation.）
Going next month... No problem with getting the tickets with Smart X now and bound my suica card until next month right? Any update for Haneda and Suica or still applies your video about it?
Thanks a lot for such amazing content! Regards from Costa Rica
Smart EX only works with a registered Suica Card that has a credit card linked to it? I’m not 100% sure if it works with the Welcome Suica Card.
Great video, so helpful :) Just wondering, if you buy tickets online and receive a QR code, how far in advance can you get the physical tickets from a machine at the station? Does it have to be the same day as departure or can you go there whenever? Thanks!
This is also something I really need to know!
Thank you for making it so clear! Finally understand how it works!
You're welcome!
Great video! Quick question...what happens if you miss your train? Are your tickets then worthless? Thanks
You can still travel on trains the same day using the unreserved seats. If the route doesn’t have unreserved seats, then you can ask the JR office for help.
Hi need help, in Europe i can net use the app of Smart-ex. can i download qr as a file on my and use it ? Or maybe print it and scan it on the station?
Do you recommend always booking tickets in advance or it’s fine just go to the ticket machine the same day?
Im trying to buy my ticket through smart-ex but for some reason I don't see the option to view seat map at 4:16 portion of the video. In fact, I don't see it anywhere even when I arrived at the last final step, how do I get reserve seat?
Thanks for your vid. Is it possible to get a shinkhansen ticket at the moment when you like to go. Or do I have to book it in advanced? What happens if I bought a ticket and I am to late? Can I get the next one without paying again? We are there in March and April, first time ❤ thanks really appreciate your answer
Hi there! You can get a ticket from the station ticket machine or the ticket counter on the day you'd like to go. If you're travelling on one of the main shinkansen lines like Tokyo -> Osaka in peak times, we wouldn't recommend this though as it gets very crowded at the station and it'll be difficult to book a reserved seat. Shinkansen tickets are valid for the whole day you bought them, so if you miss your train you can catch the next one and use the non-reserved seats 😊
This was so helpful! Thanks a lot for the effor put into this :)
You're very welcome!
Thanks!@@tokyocheapo Quick question tho: I just bought tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto following these steps on the app. Does "Tokyo" on my ticket stand for "Tokyo Station"? And the same for "Kyoto"?
GREAT Video! Everything I needed to book online from overseas. THANK YOU.
Glad it was helpful! Have a great trip!
Hi what are the instances wherein we can purchase the limited express fare and not the basic fare thru the ticketing machine?
¿Can you pick up the tickets purchase at the ekinet in the ticket machines or do you have to get them in the East JR line travel center in the Tokyo station?
Can’t register on smart ex. It doesn’t accept any credit card in the US. Tried visa, Mastercard and discover. Even tried an international card called wise. Please help
If you still haven't bought them, American Express works. Had to borrow one from a friend
@@supahsofa Thanks. I bought mine on JR West website. They accepted my card. I will have to pick a physical card at the train station at Tokyo or Shinagawa. Amex is a good tip, unfortunately no one I know has one.
Thanks for the info girl. And thanks even more for your discount ❤ I just booked it.
Can I charge my US credit card with pin to my IC (Pasmo or Suica)? I heard that the credit card will consider that cash advance or just a regular credit charge??
You should be able to charge a mobile Suica with a US card, AMEX is known to work best. However you can't charge a physical Sucia card with a credit card - you need to use cash. See our Suica Guide video: ua-cam.com/video/nU5bZIGVeAo/v-deo.html
The paying with credit card part in booth does it take dollar? Or only yen? Do I have to convert my card to yen?
Hi, question me and my husband will be in Japan this coming April for 3 nights only. It is worth buying a Suica card or just an individual ticket?
Hi there! If you're doing a reasonable amount of travel even in 3 days, the Suica card will make it a lot more seamless and convenient as you don't have to work out fares each time you hop on the train. If you have an iPhone, you can add Suica to your Apple wallet 😊
really good video, simply but still with a lot of information!
hi I will be in Japan in November.
I still don't understand the limited express only selection, what does it mean? In which cases should it be clicked instead of the standards?
Do you need to buy it jn advanced?? We go to Japan in November... should we buy it online already??
this channer so helpful, easy to understand
Very informative video. Your content is very helpful in planning a trip to Japan. Hopefully you can answer a question for me. I'm know Shinjuku station does not have a Shinkansen line, but do you know if there are Shinkansen ticketing machine there? Or can I purchase a single ticket at the JR East Travel center for the Tokaido Shinkansen?
You can buy Shinkansen tickets at shinjuku, there should be machines and there’s definitely a JR service centre for buying tickets over the counter too.
@@tokyocheapo thank you so much for replying 😊
Hi there, am I am just wondering if I can buy a group ticket (3 persons)? Do you recommend Klook?
Excellent info! Thanks a lot!
You're welcome! 😊
How does the ekinet eticket work? is it a printed QR code to scan at train gate? Btw, we do not have ic or suica card
Did you find out? If you have iphone you can add Suica card in your apple wallet and link eticket. I think that is the only way to use eticket but imk 100%. I added card to my wallet but did not buy any ticket yet until Dec 23.
Hi! do I need the physical credit card to retriev the tickets from the machines?
Another question… sorry I’m just so lost 😅 I’m interested in the QR code from Tokyo to Kyoto. Does the Tokyo station have QR code scanners on the entry gate? Can we also book tickets in one purchase like I plan on going from Tokyo to Kyoto but then plan to return from Osaka to Tokyo. Can I reserve tickets like this?
were headed to japan late march, would you recommend booking tickets in advance? or would tickets be available day of?
How about for 2 adults? Will the ticket we got is 2 as well? Or 1 ticket for 2 people? thnak you
Is it cheaper to buy online or at the station?
Are the trains full? I want to go from Tokyo to Osaka and I'm in doubt whether to buy now or when I arrive, at one of the machines.
Trains on the Shinkansen, especially those traveling between popular destinations like Tokyo and Osaka, can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times or holidays. To ensure you have a seat and to potentially save some money, it's generally a good idea to book your ticket in advance, especially if you have specific travel times in mind.
Can you connect the shinkansen ticket to the apple wallet IC suica card?
I was watching another youtuber buy tickets, and I noticed something. What would be the difference in picking Shin-Osaka from either lines or Hakata from either lines?
For example, going from Shinagawa to Shin-Osaka. Is there a difference in picking from the same shinkansen line?
when i booked thru smart ex apps how do i know on the seat will be on the right of left? i want to see mount fuji view from tokyo to osaka
Thanks so much for this info. We’re travelling to Japan in July and your videos including this one have really helped me prepare.
Really glad to hear that 😊 Hope you have a wonderful trip!
I want to go to Nagoya which line should I select?
How do you go about connecting your ticket to your IC card?
If you used SmartEX to purchase your ticket, on the reservation details screen, you can register a new IC card. This involves inputting your IC card number which is located on the back of the physical card.
@@tokyocheapo Thanks!
hi, we are travelling soon. if we book online tickets from tokyo to echigo-yuzawa , can we pickup tickets through machine?
Hi there! Yes at some bigger stations you are able to pick up tickets at the reserved seat ticket vending machine or you can collect them from a JR East travel service center.
As with Suica on iPhone, it seems European visa cards are not accepted. But Mastercard works with both of them
Does Smart Ex also charge a processing fee like Kloog?
thx, regards Josef
So I try to Book a Ticket with a Transfer, do I really need 2 Tickets? For each of the Shinkansen rides? And can I buy e-Tickets if I have a suica Card just in my Apple wallet or do I need a physical one?
Once purchased on Smart Ex, where can I find these machines to get thr paper ticket? We arrive late to Haneda and will go to out hotel in Yokohama. The next morning we will take the Shinkansen from yokohama to Osaka. I believe we have to go to shin-Yokohama to catch the train. Just now sure where I can get the paper ticket if prepurchased on Smart Ex. Thanks.
Hello! I received the QR codes for each of our tickets. Do we still need physical tickets to board? The smartex FAQ says we can just scan it at the gate.
Hi there! You can use just the QR code as the SmartEX FAQ says, however, just be aware that at some stations not all ticket gates have the QR code reader. For example, at Tokyo Station, you need to enter through the dedicated shinkansen gates at the Yaesu entrance/exit. You can't enter with the QR code from the Marunouchi side.
Can you reserve the number of the seat with Klook or they do it by themselves randomly? Thanks in advance. I mean, if i want it to go at the right of the train, could i choose that with that website?
When booking Shinkansen tickets through platforms like Klook, you usually can't reserve a specific seat number. Instead, you'll receive a reserved seat in a specific car of the train, but the exact seat number within that car is assigned by the system, and it can vary depending on availability.
@@tokyocheapoThanks for the information. Is there any way of website to reserve the seat? I mean, i would like to go at the right, to see the Mt. Fuji. Thanks in advance
if i have an IC card, do i need to buy the base fare ticket aswell?
Would you recommend booking well in advance for mid-March 2024 or would a few days earlier suffice?
For mid-March 2024 Shinkansen tickets, we recommend booking well in advance to secure your preferred schedule and ensure availability. It's advisable to plan ahead for a smoother travel experience. Safe travels!
Can I purchase multiple tickets on Smart Ex for my family members? If so, how do I get the individual tickets for each member? Or can I transfer the tickets onto their mobile SUICA card?
Hi sis, may I ask what is the Shinkansen to Limited Express? As I want to buy From Osaka to Nagoya and then straight to Takayama. Thanks
If I’m buying two passenger tickets, how does linking the suica card work for both of us?
When you buy 2 tickets on Smart EX, are both tickets linked to one Suica card or can you say on the app to link one ticket to another card? Also, I ordered a Kansai-Hiroshima pass so is there any site to book seats online for JR West since eki net is just for JR East.
very helpful thank you so much!
What is +/- extra fee for reserved seat from Tokyo to Hiroshima? thanks.
Namaste mam I have one question can I travel by suica card in shinkansen
Hi there! You can't use your Suica card to travel on the shinkansen in the same way you would for local trains. But you can purchase a shinkansen ticket online at one of the sites mentioned in the video and connect the ticket to your Suica card (using the number on the back of your Suica). That way, you can use your Suica card to tap in and out of the gates.