I wrote about buying the ticket, but what’s the actual experience of taking the train like?
First up, look at the ticket:
Not a lot of concessions there for the non-reader of Japanese. This is actually the ticket from Kyoto to Tokyo, although pretty much the only way I could remember was to look at the date. But really the ticket is quite straightforward. The first two lines are not important, the bulk of the information is in the middle four lines. Which say:
Kyoto->Tokyo
(date) 3/30 (time) (12:06) (arriving)(14:26)
(train number) 304 (car) 8, (row) 6, (seat) C, nosmoking
18,160 yen, 7980 for the ticket, 5,030 for reserved seat, 5,150 for green class.
Apart from the date and time and vast expense, the important things to note are the train number and the car number. You’ll first want to find out what platform your train goes from. Now we just stood and waited for the train number (63 for the Tokyo-Kyoto leg) to show up on the big board, and then we went for the platform. To get in you put your ticket in the turnstile, and take it out the other end, just like every ticket usage on Tokyo trains.
We were wondering why nobody else was waiting, then when we actually went in it turned out this was because were were basically just waiting in the entrance hall, the actual Tokyo station is HUGE. It took us a little time to find the platform. You need to look for the Shinkansen trains. If in doubt ask someone “Sumimasen, shinkansen doko desu ka?”
After that it’s very straightforward. You’ve got a train number and a car number. when you get to the platform there will be a spot on the platform where each car will end up. Above these is a sign that tells you what this train is, and what the next train is. Here it is with the sign expanded.
This shows the train on the platform is 705, and our train (63) is next. The green symbol means it’s green class, and the no-smoking sign means it’s no-smoking. All is well, and we just have to wait for our train. Holly is still nervous though.
But of course, the train arrived on time, we got on, found our seats and settled in for the ride. After we set off a ticket inspector comes around and puts that round stamp on the ticket. The stops are announced in English, and when we arrive in Kyoto, the exit gate will keep your ticket.
The ride itself is smooth and simple. There is a snack cart that comes around after each stop (although it’s not got a lot of stuff, so if you want to eat on the train, you should buy something at the station). You can get sake and beer to drink on the train, though again, might be best to purchase in advance. There are restrooms at the end of the cars.
The trains run on time. We arrived at the station about an hour in advance, but there is really no need. It did take us about ten minutes to get to the platform, as the station is so big. But if you’ve got a reserved seat you should have no problem. If you don’t have a reserved seat, then you will want to line up at the non-reserved cars (which are mentioned on a sign somewhere), possibly a bit in advance – although you can’t do it too much in advance, as there is a new train every 15 minutes or so.
How was the reserved seat? Comfortable? We are going in November and plan to take the Shinkansen for the four hour trip from Tokyo to Hiroshima and back.
The green class did not seem to be anything particularly special. Comfortable enough, but nothing like the difference between say economy and business class on a US airline. Certainly not uncomfortable though, and it’s a lot easier (than a plane) to get up and walk around if you want.
the reason your credit card didnt work was cause the japanese dont always connect the payment systems to the international banks (costs extra)… so in alot of cases, only local banks credit cards are accepted. This is the same in ATMs (Automatic bank tellers) even if the sign says Visa/Mastercard or American Express. To use foriegn cards, you have to go to special machines (Look for Citibank machines – they usually work)
Good to know. Citibank ATMs did work for me, and also the ATMs in post offices worked (although they are a bit complicated).
Green Class is a waste of time. There is no difference other than you get to board the train first. The reserved seat may be a need. Some trains you have to reserve a seat to get on them. It is just part of the system…it doesn’t mean anything different it just makes sure you have a seat.
With the foreign cards most are not excepted…japan is a card in had society except for some areas like Tokyo and Kyoto. To withdrawal cash you mainly have to go to the post office and use the ATM there. The ATMs at the post office are the true international ATMs. As well since August of last year the Japanese have been installing the same ATMs in conveince stores.
And, this might be helpful next time. If you want to know if they speak English ask: Eigo wo hanashimas ka? Which just means: Do you speak English
Very interesting tips!
Good to know for all the flyers.
Thanks for the share.
Wow, what a ticket! I’m glad you could read what it said….I think I’d go crazy trying to make sense of that (or at least go blind!). Great post! :-)
Mick, thank you. this is very useful information.
just a quick question, The first time i went to Tokyo (2 months ago) I had someone pick me up. and he bought the tickets for us.
We took a one way trip to Kokubunji and transfered trains just once. I recall we had 2 tickets and I recall putting in both tickets in the entrance and exit slot. Did you ever have this experience?
No, we never transferred trains, and only ever had one ticket each.
Looks like it was fun! I can’t wait to take a trip over there. Just wish it wasn’t so expensive!
~Jack
Thanks for the interesting post and great pictures. Glad to hear you had a fun time on your trip. I look forward to reading more from you in the future.