Riding a Shinkansen in Japan isn’t just a way to get from one city to another, for many kids, it’s the adventure itself. From the sleek nose of the train to the moment it glides silently into the station, this iconic bullet train experience turns ordinary transit into something unforgettable. But if you’re planning family travel across Japan, the logistics can get confusing fast: Does my 3-year-old ride free? How much are child tickets? And is it better to use the Japan Rail Pass with children or pay for regular bullet train tickets for families? This guide answers everything you need to know about riding the Shinkansen with kids, helping you turn high-speed journeys into stress-free, memory-making moments.
For year-round planning, explore our Japan Seasonal Guides for Families, including detailed resources for spring, summer, autumn, winter, and our full Best Time to Visit Japan with Kids guide.
Once your dates are set, our Packing Guide for Japan with Kids helps families pack with intention, focusing on real-life logistics, cultural differences, and the small systems that make daily travel in Japan calmer and easier.
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Why Book Ahead? It’s quicker, avoids long lines, helps skip language barriers, prevents sold-out attractions, and solves payment issues at places that don’t accept credit cards. *Prices are subject to change.
Quick Tips for Riding the Shinkansen in Japan with Kids
- Kids under 6 ride free on the Shinkansen if they sit on a parent’s lap. Only one lap child per adult is allowed. If you want a guaranteed seat, you’ll need to buy a child ticket.
- Reserve your seats: sitting together makes the ride smoother and avoids stress when trains are full.
- Choose seats D and E on trains between Tokyo & Osaka/Kyoto for the best chance to spot Mt. Fuji through the window.
- Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM) when trains are busiest and quieter seating is harder to find.
- Reserve space for large luggage over 160 cm in size, or read our guide on how to ship your luggage so you can board the Shinkansen with just a stroller and a diaper bag.
We break down ticket rules, seating options, and booking tips in more detail below, so you can choose what works best for your family.
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What Is the Shinkansen (and Why It’s Great for Families)?
The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed rail network, famous for its punctuality, cleanliness, and comfort. Unlike local trains, these sleek trains connect major cities across the country at top speeds of up to 320 km/h. For families, the Shinkansen means skipping domestic flights, avoiding long car rides, and enjoying smooth, scenic travel with room to stretch out.
Kids love the tray tables, giant windows, and onboard snacks. Grown-ups love the predictable schedule, clean restrooms (often with changing tables), and hassle-free stations. It’s the kind of public transport that actually feels like part of the vacation.
LuNi Strategy: The Shinkansen “Sold Out” Surprise
The Shinkansen is famous for its frequency, leading many families to assume they can simply buy tickets after they land in Japan.
Why ‘Available’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Available Together’ – While it is rare for a train to be 100% full, the seats you actually need vanish days in advance. Families who wait to buy tickets until they arrive in Japan often face a harsh reality: the only seats left are scattered (separating parents from kids), or hours later than planned.
The LuNi Move – Don’t leave your transit to chance. Book your reserved seats online 30 days out. This guarantees your family sits together, secures the critical “Oversized Baggage” area, and locks in the faster Nozomi trains before the “sold out” signs appear.
Families who wait until they arrive often spend their first day in Japan stressed, frantically refreshing apps, or waiting on a platform for a slower train while the express zooms by.
Shinkansen Ticket Rules for Children and Families in Japan
Japan has very clear age rules for train tickets.
|
Age Group 8783_b533f8-91> |
Fare Rule 8783_d527ad-50> |
Seat Rule 8783_d9126c-04> |
|---|---|---|
|
Child (0-5) 8783_07efc8-3a> |
Free 8783_1849f1-e3> |
Must sit on parent’s lap (1 child per adult). 8783_88c9d8-80> |
|
Child (6-11) 8783_8122f7-c6> |
50% Off 8783_3a89b8-6e> |
Gets their own reserved seat. 8783_78efc3-f0> |
|
Adult (12+) 8783_616d5b-7a> |
Full Price 8783_7391cf-26> |
Gets their own reserved seat. 8783_e18144-df> |
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Even if your toddler could ride free, booking a reserved seat means more space, easier naps, and no lap fights over snacks.

Best Shinkansen Seat Types and Family Seating Options
Every Shinkansen train has two main seat classes, Ordinary Cars and Green Cars, but what really matters for families is how the seats are arranged and how easily everyone can sit together. Here’s what to expect before you board.
Shinkansen Seat Layout Explained
- Most Ordinary Cars have a 2+3 layout (two seats on one side, three on the other).
- Green Cars, Japan’s version of first class, feature a 2+2 layout with wider seats, more legroom, and quieter surroundings.
- Some premium trains, like the Gran Class on the Tohoku line, offer 2+1 luxury seating, but these are usually not necessary for families.
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Pick seats D and E when traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, that’s the side with a chance to spot Mt. Fuji!
Best Family Seating Options on the Shinkansen
- Facing Seats: Some Shinkansen allow the row of seats to rotate so families can face each other, perfect for games, snacks, or just more eye contact during long rides. Ask staff at the ticket counter to set this up when reserving.
- Group or Compartment Seats: On select routes (not typical), families can book private compartments with sliding doors and extra floor space, ideal for toddlers or long-distance journeys (additional routes coming in 2027).
- Seats Near Facilities: Families often request seats close to restrooms, vending machines, or luggage areas. These spots are especially useful for quick diaper changes or snack refills.
- End-of-Car Rows: These have slightly more space for strollers or large bags, and they’re closest to the oversized luggage storage area.
Choosing the Right Car for Your Family
- Ordinary Car Reserved Seats: The best balance of comfort and cost for most families.
- Green Car: Worth it during peak travel or for long rides, quieter, cleaner, and slightly more space for little ones.
- Non-Reserved Cars: Usually not ideal with kids, since seating together isn’t guaranteed and crowds can be stressful.
Shinkansen Seat Class Comparison for Families
|
Seat Type 8783_e3e52b-a7> |
Layout 8783_2376b4-04> |
Best For 8783_53e124-20> |
Family Benefits 8783_e2c937-dc> |
Cost Level 8783_3c766e-5c> |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ordinary Car (Reserved) 8783_6e5524-04> |
2 + 3 seats 8783_7559ea-07> |
Most families 8783_faa29a-da> |
Guaranteed seats together, affordable, access to restrooms 8783_6dc4ee-54> |
¥¥ 8783_7fe5d9-97> |
|
Green Car (First Class) 8783_bc323f-2e> |
2 + 2 seats 8783_16f75c-92> |
Longer rides or peak travel 8783_f201e0-50> |
Extra legroom, quieter car, wider aisles for strollers 8783_c9e364-c5> |
¥¥¥ 8783_4e715d-6f> |
|
Non-Reserved Car 8783_da6f7b-97> |
2 + 3 seats 8783_186470-bb> |
Short trips, off-peak times 8783_c34b3a-a1> |
Cheapest option, but seating together not guaranteed 8783_9e6597-a1> |
¥ 8783_33bcb0-c8> |
|
Private Compartment 8783_52b35d-56> |
Varies by train 8783_c14fb9-5e> |
Families with toddlers or luggage 8783_4af94d-3b> |
Sliding door privacy, floor space for play, ideal for naps (planned for 2027) 8783_8e7085-91> |
¥¥¥ 8783_4ba99f-7c> |
|
Gran Class (Luxury) 8783_580bc4-54> |
2 + 1 seats 8783_5a71e9-a2> |
Parents seeking full comfort 8783_26dd7f-01> |
Lounge-style seats, complimentary drinks, quiet atmosphere 8783_031b56-0c> |
¥¥¥¥ 8783_05c55d-70> |
Ordinary Car (Reserved)
Best all-around choice for most families
Layout: 2 + 3 seats
Best for: Families traveling together
Why families choose it: Guaranteed seats together, affordable pricing, easy access to restrooms
Cost level: ¥¥
Green Car (First Class)
More space and calm for longer journeys
Layout: 2 + 2 seats
Best for: Long rides or peak travel days
Why families choose it: Extra legroom, quieter environment, wider aisles for strollers
Cost level: ¥¥¥
Non-Reserved Car
Budget-friendly but unpredictable
Layout: 2 + 3 seats
Best for: Short trips during off-peak hours
Why families choose it: Cheapest option
Seating together is not guaranteed, especially during busy times
Cost level: ¥
Private Compartment
Maximum flexibility for little ones
(Planned for 2027 on select trains)
Layout: Varies by train
Best for: Families with toddlers or lots of luggage
Why families choose it: Sliding-door privacy, floor space for play, easier naps
Cost level: ¥¥¥
Gran Class (Luxury)
Premium comfort for parents, not kids
Layout: 2 + 1 seats
Best for: Parents prioritizing comfort
Why families choose it: Lounge-style seats, complimentary drinks, quiet atmosphere
Not ideal for energetic young children
Cost level: ¥¥¥¥
How to Book Shinkansen Tickets for Families with Kids
Families can book Shinkansen tickets in several ways, but some options are far easier and less stressful than others when traveling with kids.
|
Booking Method 8783_596777-d5> |
Pros for Families 8783_23cfc6-46> |
Cons for Families 8783_ee6501-88> |
LuNi Verdict 8783_c31445-e9> |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. Klook (Recommended) 8783_3f6eca-2d> |
• Easiest English Interface |
• Small service fee charged per ticket 8783_41d2bb-0e> |
*Best for Parents* |
|
2. SmartEX App 8783_16cefe-c6> |
• Official JR App (No fees) |
• High Failure Rate: Often rejects foreign credit cards |
Good for Solo Travelers |
|
3. Station Ticket Machines 8783_7a803b-e0> |
• Can pay with cash |
• Long Lines: Waiting 30+ minutes in line with toddlers is tough |
The “Backup” Plan |
Option 1: Klook (Best for Parents)
Why it’s great:
Easy English interface. Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and foreign credit cards.
The downside:
Small service fee per ticket.
Verdict:
The stress-free choice for families. It avoids rejected cards, confusing apps, and last-minute panic.
Option 2: SmartEX App
Why it’s great:
Official JR app with no fees and the ability to choose exact seats on a map.
The downside:
High failure rate with non-Japanese credit cards and a confusing setup process.
Verdict:
Best for solo travelers or families whose cards are already known to work.
Option 3: Station Ticket Machines
Why it’s great:
Cash payment and no advance planning required.
The downside:
Long lines. Standing 30+ minutes in a busy station with tired kids is exhausting.
Verdict:
The backup plan. Use only if you’re booking last-minute at the station.
We recommend using Klook for Shinkansen tickets when traveling with kids. The official SmartEX app frequently rejects non-Japanese credit cards, which can quickly turn booking into a stressful experience for families.
With Klook, you can book in seconds using Apple Pay or a foreign credit card, receive a QR code, and scan it directly at the gate, or pick up physical tickets at a machine without waiting in long station lines. For most families, the small service fee is worth the peace of mind of knowing everything is booked and ready before travel day.
New to train travel in Japan? This Shinkansen booking guide is just one part of our travel series. Learn how to navigate Japan’s entire rail network with our Family Guide to Exploring Japan by Train, then check out our Family Trip Planning Guide for what to pack, and how to plan that magical trip to Japan.
Best Shinkansen Routes in Japan for Families (Travel Times & Typical Costs)
Japan’s Shinkansen network connects most of the country, making it easy for families to explore multiple regions in comfort. Here are some of the most popular and scenic routes for families, with estimated travel times so you can plan your adventures with ease.
Typical Shinkansen Ticket Prices for Families
Prices vary depending on the train type (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama) and seat class, but here’s a quick idea: adult fares average between ¥13,000–¥15,000 for popular routes like Tokyo–Kyoto, with children aged 6–11 paying half and kids under 6 riding free if they don’t need their own seat. Japan Rail Pass holders can ride most Shinkansen lines without extra cost (except Nozomi and Mizuho).
Most Popular Family-Friendly Shinkansen Routes in Japan
Tokyo to Kyoto / Osaka (Tokaido Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~2 hr 30 min (Hikari)
Typical price: ~¥14,000–¥15,000 one-way (adult)
This classic route is perfect for first-time visitors. It combines Japan’s modern capital with its cultural heart. Kids can spot Mt. Fuji from the right-hand side of the train about 40 minutes after leaving Tokyo.
Kyoto to Hiroshima (Sanyo Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~1 hr 40 min (Sakura)
Typical price: ~¥11,000–¥12,000 one-way (adult)
A smooth ride that links two of Japan’s most historic cities. Hiroshima’s Peace Park and nearby Miyajima Island make this a meaningful and memorable family day trip.
Tokyo to Nagano (Hokuriku Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~1 hr 30 min (Kagayaki)
Typical price: ~¥8,000–¥9,000 one-way (adult)
Known as the “Snow Monkey route,” this trip is ideal in winter. Families can enjoy mountain scenery, onsen towns, and easy access to Jigokudani Monkey Park or the Nagano Alps.
Osaka to Fukuoka (Hakata) (Sanyo Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~2 hr 30 min (Nozomi / Sakura)
Typical price: ~¥15,000–¥16,000 one-way (adult)
Great for families exploring western Japan, this line passes through Okayama and Hiroshima before reaching Kyushu’s vibrant Fukuoka city.
Tokyo to Kanazawa (Hokuriku Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~2 hr 30 min (Kagayaki)
Typical price: ~¥14,000–¥15,000 one-way (adult)
A scenic route to Japan’s “Little Kyoto,” known for samurai districts, gold-leaf ice cream, and interactive art museums like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Tokyo to Sendai (Tohoku Shinkansen Line)
Travel time: ~1 hr 30 min (Hayabusa)
Typical price: ~¥10,000–¥11,000 one-way (adult)
Fast and convenient for exploring northern Japan, from Sendai’s coastal attractions to nearby hot spring villages and the famous Zao Fox Village.
Which Shinkansen Train Type Is Best With Kids?
Not all Shinkansen trains are created equal. Here’s what to know:
|
Train Type 8783_cdfa92-25> |
Speed 8783_9ec1e1-fd> |
JR Pass 8783_329f97-ef> |
Best For Families Who… 8783_ab93af-84> |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Nozomi 8783_1fb53e-bb> |
Fastest 8783_218724-4e> |
Not covered 8783_d2bfff-ca> |
Want the shortest possible travel time and are buying individual tickets 8783_cb24a1-80> |
|
Hikari 8783_94a50c-4d> |
Very fast 8783_6acd0e-94> |
Covered 8783_52dbea-34> |
Want the best balance of speed, value, and flexibility 8783_f23f7d-f0> |
|
Kodama 8783_0dd551-b6> |
Slowest 8783_e1c248-5a> |
Covered 8783_08fa7e-79> |
Prefer a quieter, less crowded ride and don’t mind extra stops 8783_dd0585-29> |
Nozomi (Fastest Option)
- Speed: Fastest Shinkansen
- JR Pass: Not covered
- Best for families who: Want the shortest possible travel time and are buying individual tickets
Good to know: Nozomi is ideal for long routes when kids struggle with extended sitting, but it does cost more if you’re not using a JR Pass.
Hikari (Best All-Around Choice)
- Speed: Very fast (slightly slower than Nozomi)
- JR Pass: Covered
- Best for families who: Want the best balance of speed, value, and flexibility
Good to know: Hikari is the most family-friendly option for JR Pass users and runs frequently on major routes like Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka.
Kodama (Slow & Scenic)
- Speed: Slowest (stops at every station)
- JR Pass: Covered
- Best for families who: Prefer a quieter ride and don’t mind extra travel time
Good to know: Kodama trains are less crowded and can feel calmer, which helps younger kids or sensory-sensitive travelers.
Bottom line for families:
If you’re using a JR Pass, choose Hikari whenever possible. If you’re paying per ride and traveling with kids who struggle on long trips, Nozomi can be worth the upgrade. Kodama works best for flexible days or short distances.
Want help choosing which cities to visit by bullet train? Compare Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for families, and discover which one fits your family’s style best.
JR Pass vs Point-to-Point Tickets: What Should Families Choose?
For most families, the Japan Rail Pass is worth it only if you’re traveling long distances between multiple cities. It offers unlimited rides on JR trains, including most Shinkansen, for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. However, it does not cover the fastest Nozomi or Mizuho trains.
If your itinerary includes routes such as Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka, the JR Pass can save a significant amount, especially for families booking multiple long rides. On the other hand, families staying in one region or taking just one or two Shinkansen trips often save money and gain flexibility by buying individual point-to-point tickets.
Quick Family Decision Guide
|
Your Travel Style 8783_f2e919-b8> |
Best Choice 8783_2eca4b-b5> |
Why It Works for Families 8783_ddacd8-7a> |
|---|---|---|
|
Traveling between multiple cities 8783_2f25e6-5d> |
JR Pass 8783_163903-24> |
Unlimited long-distance rides reduce cost and planning stress 8783_1f222c-3a> |
|
Taking 1–2 Shinkansen trips 8783_d8cb1a-c5> |
Point-to-point tickets 8783_6afe8d-44> |
Cheaper and more flexible for simple itineraries 8783_cfedfe-99> |
|
Want the fastest Nozomi trains 8783_73df6b-bb> |
Point-to-point tickets 8783_c52de1-6b> |
JR Pass is not valid on Nozomi or Mizuho 8783_722a5d-92> |
Traveling between multiple cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima)?
Choose the JR Pass
Best for families covering long distances on several travel days.
Taking only one or two Shinkansen rides?
Buy point-to-point tickets
Cheaper and more flexible for shorter or regional trips.
Want to ride the fastest Nozomi trains?
Buy point-to-point tickets
The JR Pass is not valid on Nozomi or Mizuho services.
Bottom Line for Families
The JR Pass works best for busy, multi-city itineraries. If your trip is slower-paced or focused on one region, point-to-point tickets are usually the smarter choice.
Still deciding between a JR Pass and regional passes? Our complete guide to the Japan Rail Pass for Families breaks it down by cost, coverage, and kid-friendliness.
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Picking the right ticket isn’t just about saving yen. It’s about choosing the smoothest ride for your family’s rhythm, and avoiding ticket line chaos when kids are tired.

Shinkansen Etiquette and Train Manners for Families in Japan
Japan’s Shinkansen are calm, comfortable, and family-friendly, but they do follow a few unspoken etiquette rules. Understanding these basics helps your ride stay smooth, respectful, and stress-free, while also giving kids a simple introduction to Japanese train culture.
Noise and Talking
The Shinkansen is considered a quiet space. Kids can talk and laugh, but encourage soft “indoor voices” rather than loud play or shouting.
Phones, Tablets, and Devices
Use headphones for videos, games, or music. Speaker volume is discouraged, and phone calls should only be taken in the vestibule areas between train cars, never from your seat.
Eating and Snacks
Eating on the Shinkansen is completely allowed and part of the experience. Ekiben and snacks are welcome, just keep things tidy. Save trash in the plastic bag from your bento and dispose of it at your destination station, since onboard trash bins may be limited.
Seating and Shared Space
Be mindful when reclining, especially during meal times if someone behind you is using their tray table. Store large bags overhead or behind the last row, and keep aisles clear so staff and passengers can move easily.
Moving Around the Train with Kids
Walking between cars is safe, but younger children should always be accompanied. Doors can be heavy, and the train may sway slightly when slowing or turning. A short walk to stretch near the vending machine area can help restless kids reset during longer rides.
Best Time to Ride the Shinkansen in Japan for Families
The best time to ride the Shinkansen with kids is mid-morning or late morning, when trains are calmer and boarding feels less rushed. Families hoping to spot Mt. Fuji will also benefit from clearer skies earlier in the day, especially on routes between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka.
Morning rides are typically quieter than early rush-hour trains and offer the best chance of seeing Mt. Fuji on clear days. When traveling westbound from Tokyo, sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views. Boarding around 9:00–11:00 AM often strikes the perfect balance between visibility and reduced crowds.
To keep the experience stress-free, families should avoid Shinkansen rush hours, which generally run from 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM, particularly on busy corridors like Tokyo–Yokohama–Osaka. Traveling outside these windows makes it easier to manage strollers, luggage, and seat arrangements.
Seasonally, spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to ride the Shinkansen with kids, thanks to mild temperatures and scenic views. During major travel periods such as Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year, trains fill quickly, so reserving seats in advance is essential for families who want to sit together.
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Ride a late-morning train after rush hour and pack snacks for a “moving picnic.” The scenery and speed make it one of the easiest, most peaceful family travel moments in Japan.
Best Time and Side to See Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen
Spotting Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen is a highlight for many families and one of the most exciting moments of the journey. While clear weather is never guaranteed, knowing which side to sit on and when to start watching greatly improves your chances.
Which Side of the Shinkansen to Sit On
Tokyo to Kyoto / Osaka
Sit on the right-hand side of the train (Seats D & E)
Kyoto / Osaka to Tokyo
Sit on the left-hand side of the train (Seats D & E)
Seat letters matter more than car numbers. When reserving seats, look for D or E.
When to Look for Mt. Fuji from Tokyo
(Westbound: Tokyo → Kyoto / Osaka)
Nozomi & Hikari
Watch window: 40–45 minutes after leaving Tokyo Station
Mt. Fuji usually appears shortly after passing the Shizuoka area.
Kodama
Watch window: Around 50 minutes after leaving Tokyo
Because Kodama stops more often, Fuji typically appears after Atami Station.
When to Look for Mt. Fuji from Kyoto or Osaka
(Eastbound: Kyoto / Osaka → Tokyo)
Nozomi
Watch window: 95–105 minutes after leaving Shin-Osaka Station
Fuji usually comes into view shortly after passing Nagoya.
Hikari
Watch window: 100–110 minutes after leaving Shin-Osaka
Often visible near the Shizuoka region.
Kodama
Watch window: 135–150 minutes after leaving Shin-Osaka
Appears later due to frequent stops, typically after Shizuoka Station.

FAQs: How to Book and Ride the Shinkansen with Kids
Planning to ride the Shinkansen with kids in Japan? These family-focused FAQs cover how to book tickets, travel tips, seating, and stroller advice.
A: Yes, children under 6 ride free on the Shinkansen if they don’t occupy a separate seat. They must sit on an adult’s lap, with only one lap child per adult allowed. If you want a guaranteed seat, purchase a child fare. Ages 6–11 pay half fare, and 12+ pay the full adult price.
A: Families can book Shinkansen tickets online through SmartEX, Klook, or JR East Reservations, or at a JR ticket counter (Midori-no-Madoguchi). Multilingual ticket machines at major stations are also available. Choose reserved seats together, and request spots near restrooms or luggage space for convenience.
A: Yes, strollers are allowed on the Shinkansen. They must be folded before boarding and stored behind the last row of seats or in the luggage area. Families should reserve seats near the rear of the car, where extra space is available for strollers and bags.
A: Yes, many Shinkansen have food carts selling snacks, drinks, and bento boxes, especially on longer routes. Availability varies by train type, so most families buy ekiben (station bento boxes) before boarding. Eating on the Shinkansen is common and part of the experience.
A: The best Shinkansen for families with a JR Pass are the Hikari (Tokaido line) and Sakura (Sanyo/Kyushu line). Both are fast, comfortable, and fully covered by the pass. Avoid Nozomi and Mizuho trains, as they are not included.
A: Green Car seats offer extra space and a quieter ride, but Ordinary Car reserved seats are usually sufficient and more affordable. Families may find Green Cars worthwhile for long trips or peak seasons when extra room and calm are helpful.
A: Yes, most Shinkansen trains offer free Wi-Fi (Shinkansen Free Wi-Fi) on lines like the Tokaido and Sanyo. It works well for browsing or messaging, but speeds can be slow for streaming. Families should download movies or games in advance for a smoother ride.
A: To see Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen, book a window seat on the right side (seat D or E) when traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka. If traveling the opposite way, choose the left side, but the same seats (D or E). When booking, ask for Mt. Fuji view seats to improve your chances on a clear day.
A: Each passenger may bring two pieces of luggage up to 30 kg each, with a combined size of 250 cm or less. Bags over 160 cm are considered oversized and require a reservation for the luggage area behind the last row of seats. This space is also ideal for strollers and large suitcases.
A: Yes, many Shinkansen trains have a multi-purpose or baby care room for nursing, diaper changes, or calming a child. These are usually located near the end cars. Ask a train conductor for directions, as availability varies by train type and route.
A: Families should book Shinkansen tickets 2–4 weeks ahead during busy travel periods such as Golden Week, summer holidays, or New Year. At other times, booking a few days in advance is usually enough to secure seats together.
A: Yes, families can easily sit together on the Shinkansen by reserving seats. At ticket counters or online, request side-by-side seating or a 2+2 layout (two seats across the aisle), which works perfectly for families traveling with children.
A: Yes, some Shinkansen offer family or group seating. On certain routes, families can book private compartments or group areas with facing seats. These spaces give kids more room to relax and are ideal for long trips together. Availability depends on the line, so book early.
A: Yes. Some Shinkansen lines in Japan offer family-only cars designed for travelers with kids. These cars include stroller space, child-friendly seating, and nearby restrooms, creating a relaxed environment for families. Look for “Family Car” (ファミリー車両) when booking tickets.
A: JR Central and JR West run family-only cars on select Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen routes. They’re usually offered during holiday periods and labeled as Family Car when you reserve online or at ticket machines.
A: The Shinkansen has family-friendly facilities, including clean restrooms with changing tables, multipurpose rooms for nursing or baby care, vending machines, and spacious luggage areas. Many stations also provide elevators and wide gates, making boarding with strollers or luggage easier.
Until Next Time…
Riding the Shinkansen with kids is more than just transit, it’s a highlight of your Japan journey. With smooth tracks, incredible speed, and windows that turn cities into scenery, the bullet train turns travel time into family time. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms or planning your next adventure, now you’re ready to ride like pros. All aboard!
Ready to ride? Don’t miss our Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka 3-Day Itineraries, each packed with family-friendly activities, bullet train tips, and time-saving local insights.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
