How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets with Klook Discount Code (Save on Japan Bullet Train)

On November 10, 2022, we took our first Shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Osaka. Watching the Japanese countryside blur past at 320 km/h while the girls pressed their faces against the window remains one of our favorite travel memories. Since then, we've logged dozens of bullet train journeys across Japan, and we've learned the most efficient ways to book tickets and save money.

Booking Shinkansen tickets through Klook with discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK has become our go-to method for Japan rail travel. The platform is straightforward, prices match official JR rates, and the QR code boarding system eliminates those stressful station queues.

Why Book Shinkansen Tickets Through Klook

After multiple trips to Japan spanning over 308 days in total, we've tested every major booking method for Shinkansen tickets. Klook consistently delivers the best combination of convenience, pricing, and user experience for international travelers.

Benefits of booking through Klook:

The QR code system lets you board directly on most major routes without exchanging vouchers at ticket counters. This saves 15-30 minutes at busy stations like Tokyo and Kyoto. The multi-language interface makes the booking process simple in English, eliminating confusion with Japanese-only platforms. Klook pricing matches official JR rates, with occasional promotional discounts that can save you 5-10% during special campaigns.

Payment flexibility includes credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and other international methods that sometimes don't work on Japanese websites. Customer support operates in English with responsive chat assistance, which proves invaluable when dealing with travel changes or questions.

What we appreciate most: Klook is an official JR partner, meaning your reservations go directly into the Japan Railways system. Unlike some third-party resellers, there's no middleman markup or reliability concerns.

Current Klook Discount Code for Shinkansen Tickets

Use promo code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK when booking your Japan rail tickets through Klook. This code works on all Shinkansen routes and can be combined with ongoing Klook promotions for additional savings.

Book Shinkansen tickets on Klook with discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK

First-time Klook app users often receive an automatic 5% discount on their initial booking, which stacks with promotional periods for even better savings. During peak booking seasons, watch for flash sales that can reduce ticket prices by 10-20%.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Shinkansen Tickets on Klook

Step 1: Access the Klook Shinkansen booking page

Visit Klook's Japan Rail section or search "Shinkansen tickets" in the Klook app. The main result displays as "Japan Shinkansen & Train Tickets" with coverage for all major routes.

Step 2: Select your route and travel date

Enter your departure station, destination, and travel date. Pay close attention to station names because cities don't always match station names. For Osaka, select "Shin-Osaka" rather than "Osaka" since Shinkansen trains bypass the main Osaka Station. Tokyo Station serves as the primary hub for most routes heading west.

Common routes we've used include Tokyo to Kyoto (2 hours 15 minutes), Tokyo to Osaka via Shin-Osaka (2 hours 30 minutes), Osaka to Hiroshima (1 hour 30 minutes), and Tokyo to Hiroshima (4 hours).

Step 3: Choose your train and seat type

Klook displays available trains with departure times, travel duration, and Shinkansen model names like Nozomi, Hikari, or Kodama. The Nozomi is fastest, making fewer stops, while Hikari and Kodama take slightly longer but cost the same.

Seat options include Ordinary Car (standard class) and Green Car (first class). We typically book Ordinary Car seats because they're comfortable, spacious, and significantly cheaper than Green Car. The kids find plenty of room to spread out, and the ride quality remains excellent.

Step 4: Select seat preferences

Klook offers optional add-ons for Mt. Fuji side seating (adds approximately $5-8 per ticket) and oversized luggage space (required if traveling with bags larger than 160cm total dimensions). Window and aisle seats can be selected at no extra charge.

The Mt. Fuji side option increases your chances of viewing Japan's iconic mountain between Tokyo and Kyoto, though weather and visibility aren't guaranteed. We've booked it twice and saw Mt. Fuji clearly once during good weather conditions.

Important luggage note: Since May 2020, JR requires advance reservations for oversized baggage (over 160cm when adding length, width, and height). If you're traveling with large suitcases, select the oversized luggage space option during booking or face potential fines.

Step 5: Enter passenger details and apply discount code

Input passenger names exactly as they appear on passports. This matters because station staff occasionally verify ID when checking tickets. Enter your email address to receive booking confirmations and QR codes.

In the promo code field, enter ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK and click apply to see your discount. The system immediately displays the reduced total before payment.

Step 6: Complete payment

Klook accepts major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, and other digital payment methods. Payment processes in your local currency with transparent exchange rates and no hidden fees.

Review all details carefully before confirming since changes after ticket issuance often carry fees or restrictions.

Step 7: Receive your QR code

Within minutes of purchase, Klook sends your booking confirmation via email and makes it available in the Klook app. The confirmation includes a QR code that serves as your ticket for direct boarding on most major routes.

Screenshot this QR code or save it offline before arriving at the station in case of weak internet connectivity. We learned this lesson the hard way when cellular data failed us at Kyoto Station.

How to Use Your Klook Shinkansen QR Code at the Station

Most major routes now support direct boarding with QR codes, eliminating the need for physical ticket exchanges. Supported routes include Tokyo to Shin-Osaka, Shin-Osaka to Hakata, Tokyo to Kyoto, and other major city connections.

Boarding process with QR code:

Arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before departure to locate your platform and gate. Shinkansen platforms are clearly marked with large overhead signs. Find the gate number that corresponds to your car number (displayed on your ticket). Each Shinkansen car has designated boarding areas marked on the platform floor.

Present your QR code at the gate scanner. The system reads your reservation and allows entry to the platform. Board your train and locate your seat based on the car and seat numbers on your confirmation.

What if the QR code doesn't work? Some shorter or less common routes still require physical ticket exchange at JR Midori no Madoguchi (ticket offices). If your QR code isn't accepted, visit a ticket counter and present your Klook confirmation. Staff will issue physical tickets immediately.

Shinkansen Ticket Pricing and Routes

Shinkansen ticket prices remain consistent whether booking through Klook, official JR websites, or station counters. The advantage of Klook lies in convenience and international payment options rather than base price reductions.

Prices are approximate and based on November 2025 rates. Exchange rates fluctuate.

When JR Pass makes sense vs. point-to-point tickets: With the JR Pass price increase to ¥50,000 for 7 days, point-to-point tickets often cost less unless you're making multiple long-distance trips. A round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto (¥26,640) plus a Tokyo to Hiroshima trip (¥18,380) totals ¥45,020, making individual tickets cheaper than the pass.

For our family of five, buying individual tickets through Klook saved us approximately ¥100,000 compared to purchasing five JR Passes during our month in Japan.

Understanding Shinkansen Lines and Train Types

Japan operates nine Shinkansen lines connecting major cities and regions. Understanding which line serves your route helps with planning and booking.

Major Shinkansen lines:

The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo and Osaka, serving as Japan's busiest and most popular route for tourists. This line extends through Kyoto, Nagoya, and other major cities. The Sanyo Shinkansen continues west from Osaka to Hakata (Fukuoka), passing through Hiroshima and other western Japanese cities.

The Tohoku Shinkansen runs north from Tokyo to Aomori, providing access to northern Honshu. The Hokuriku Shinkansen links Tokyo with Kanazawa, opening up the scenic Hokuriku region. The Kyushu Shinkansen operates in southern Japan between Fukuoka and Kagoshima.

Additional lines include the Hokkaido Shinkansen (reaching Japan's northernmost island), the Joetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo to Niigata), and two mini-Shinkansen lines serving Akita and Yamagata.

Train types explained:

Nozomi trains are the fastest service, making the fewest stops between major cities. These trains cover Tokyo to Osaka in 2 hours 30 minutes. Hikari trains make slightly more stops, adding 15-30 minutes to journey times but still providing fast, comfortable service. Kodama trains stop at every station along the route, significantly extending travel time.

We typically book Nozomi service for long-distance travel and Hikari for shorter routes where the time difference doesn't matter. The price remains identical regardless of train type.

Klook vs. Official JR Booking Platforms

Klook advantages:

Single platform handles multiple JR lines without switching between JR East, JR West, and JR Central websites. International payment methods work reliably without the payment failures common on Japanese sites. English-language support throughout the entire booking and customer service process. QR code delivery happens faster and more reliably than some official platforms.

Official JR platform advantages:

SmartEX (for Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen) allows exact seat selection from available seat maps. Early booking discounts (Hayatoku fares) can save 10-15% when reserving 3-21 days in advance. Direct booking with JR sometimes offers better flexibility for changes and cancellations. No third-party processing time or potential communication delays.

Our recommendation:

For first-time Japan travelers or those booking during peak seasons (Golden Week, cherry blossom season, New Year), Klook provides superior convenience and reliability. If you're particular about exact seat location or booking well in advance for discount fares, SmartEX offers more control.

We use Klook for 80% of our bookings and SmartEX only when hunting for early-bird discounts on long-distance routes.

Family Travel Tips for Shinkansen with Kids

Taking three young girls on multiple Shinkansen journeys taught us strategies that make bullet train travel with kids significantly smoother.

Seating arrangements:

Request seats in the last row where reclining doesn't disturb passengers behind you. The girls can shift positions freely without bothering other travelers. Book four seats across the aisle (2-2 configuration) rather than three seats together (3-2 configuration) for easier movement and interaction.

Luggage management:

Store large bags in the oversized luggage compartments at the rear of each car. Keep a small day bag under seats with snacks, entertainment, and essential items. Overhead racks work well for backpacks and smaller items.

Food and drinks:

Purchase food before boarding since onboard food carts have limited selections and higher prices. Tokyo Station's convenience stores offer fantastic bento boxes, onigiri, and drinks. The kids particularly love the character-themed snacks and treats available at station shops.

Entertainment:

Download movies, shows, and games before the journey since WiFi on Shinkansen is inconsistent. We pre-load content on iPads the night before travel days. Window seats facing Mt. Fuji side provide natural entertainment on clear days between Tokyo and Osaka.

Bathroom breaks:

Each Shinkansen car has clean, Western-style toilets. Go before the train gets crowded, especially during meal times. The bathrooms are surprisingly spacious and well-maintained.

Noise considerations:

Japanese trains maintain quiet atmospheres. We pack headphones for the girls and keep conversation volumes low to respect other passengers. The cultural norm emphasizes minimal noise, and following this expectation creates a more relaxed environment for everyone.

Best Routes for First-Time Shinkansen Travelers

If you're taking your first bullet train ride, certain routes offer particularly memorable experiences while showcasing what makes Shinkansen travel special.

Tokyo to Kyoto (2 hours 15 minutes)

This route perfectly demonstrates Shinkansen's blend of speed, comfort, and efficiency. The journey passes Mt. Fuji (on clear days), transitions through multiple climate zones, and delivers you from ultra-modern Tokyo to historic Kyoto in the time it takes to watch a movie. The contrast between departure and arrival cities makes this route especially satisfying.

Osaka to Hiroshima (1 hour 30 minutes)

This shorter journey provides excellent value and connects two fascinating cities. The route travels through western Honshu's countryside, offering glimpses of traditional Japanese life between urban centers. It's long enough to appreciate Shinkansen travel without committing to a multi-hour journey.

Tokyo to Osaka (2 hours 30 minutes)

Japan's busiest bullet train route sees departures every 10 minutes during peak hours. The frequency means flexible scheduling, and you'll experience the Shinkansen at its most operational impressive. The route serves as the backbone of Japanese inter-city travel.

When to Book Shinkansen Tickets in Advance

Shinkansen tickets can be reserved up to one month before departure through Klook and official JR platforms. The optimal booking window depends on your travel dates and flexibility needs.

Book as early as possible (1 month out) for:

Golden Week (late April to early May) sees massive domestic travel and sold-out trains. Cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April) attracts crowds from around the world. Summer Obon holiday (mid-August) generates peak Japanese domestic travel. New Year holidays (December 28 to January 3) book solid weeks in advance. Weekend travel during popular tourist seasons requires early reservations.

Booking closer to departure works fine for:

Weekday travel during off-season periods typically has plenty of availability. Very early morning trains (before 7:00 AM) and very late evening trains (after 8:00 PM) often have seats until the last minute. Routes to less popular destinations rarely sell out except during major holidays.

We've successfully booked Shinkansen tickets one day before travel during slower periods, but the stress of uncertainty isn't worth the risk during busy seasons.

Connecting with Other Transportation in Japan

Shinkansen stations integrate seamlessly with Japan's broader transportation network, making multi-modal journeys straightforward.

Local JR trains:

All Shinkansen stations connect directly to local JR lines without leaving the fare gate system. If you hold a JR Pass, you can transfer freely. With individual tickets, you'll need separate local tickets.

Metro and subway systems:

Major stations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have direct connections to municipal subway systems. Follow clear signage in English to transfer between Shinkansen and metro lines.

Airport connections:

Narita and Haneda airports connect to Tokyo Station via dedicated express trains. Kansai International Airport links to Shin-Osaka through the Haruka Express. These connections make same-day air-to-Shinkansen travel feasible.

Taxis and buses:

Every Shinkansen station has taxi stands and bus terminals at ground level. Station staff speak basic English and can help direct you to appropriate exits.

During our travels, we regularly combined Shinkansen with local trains, metros, and buses without complications. Japan's transportation system is genuinely designed for seamless connections.

Essential Shinkansen Travel Etiquette

Japanese trains operate under cultural expectations that differ from Western norms. Following basic etiquette ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.

Noise levels:

Phone calls are prohibited on Shinkansen trains. Use headphones for all audio content. Keep conversation volumes low, especially in Green Car sections.

Food and drinks:

Eating on Shinkansen is acceptable and common, unlike local trains where eating is discouraged. Many passengers enjoy ekiben (station bento boxes) during their journey. Dispose of trash in designated bins at the end of each car.

Seat reclining:

Reclining seats is normal and expected, but return them to upright position when exiting. Brief courtesy to passengers behind you when reclining is appreciated but not required.

Luggage placement:

Store bags properly in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated areas. Blocking aisles or doorways creates problems during busy boarding periods.

Priority seating:

Specific seats are designated for elderly, disabled, pregnant, or passengers with young children. Yield these seats when appropriate.

We've found Japanese passengers to be exceptionally polite and forgiving of cultural differences, but making an effort to follow local norms creates better experiences for everyone.

Staying Connected During Your Journey

Reliable internet access enhances Shinkansen travel for navigation, communication, and entertainment.

WiFi availability:

Many newer Shinkansen trains offer free WiFi, but coverage is inconsistent and speeds are often slow. Don't depend on train WiFi for critical communications.

eSIM solutions:

We use Holafly eSIM with code ADAMANDLINDS for unlimited data throughout Japan. The service works excellently on Shinkansen trains, even at high speeds. Having personal data eliminates dependency on unreliable public WiFi and allows seamless work, entertainment, and communication during travel.

During our multiple Shinkansen trips, personal data through Holafly proved more reliable than train WiFi. We streamed shows for the girls, worked on laptops, and navigated our destination cities without connectivity issues.

Planning Multi-City Japan Itineraries with Shinkansen

The efficiency and frequency of Shinkansen service enables itineraries that would be impossible with other transportation methods.

Classic Golden Route:

Tokyo (4-5 days), Kyoto (3-4 days), Osaka (2-3 days), Hiroshima (1-2 days). This route covers Japan's highlights in 10-14 days with comfortable Shinkansen connections between each stop.

Extended exploration:

Add Hakone for Mt. Fuji views, Nara for temples and deer, Kanazawa for traditional culture, and Fukuoka for southern Japanese experiences. Shinkansen makes these extensions simple with minimal travel time.

Day trip possibilities:

From Tokyo, consider day trips to Nikko, Hakone, or even Kyoto (though we recommend staying overnight). From Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Himeji make excellent day trips. From Kyoto, Osaka and Nara are easy return journeys.

Our family spent multiple weeks using Shinkansen as our primary transportation method. The flexibility to change plans, add destinations, and move between cities without complicated logistics made our Japan travels significantly more enjoyable.

Alternative Transportation Options in Japan

While Shinkansen is our preferred intercity transportation, other options exist for different budgets and timelines.

Highway buses:

Significantly cheaper than Shinkansen but much slower and less comfortable. An overnight bus from Tokyo to Kyoto costs around ¥5,000 compared to ¥13,320 for Shinkansen but takes 7-8 hours versus 2 hours 15 minutes.

Domestic flights:

Competitive pricing on longer routes like Tokyo to Fukuoka or Osaka to Sapporo. When factoring in airport travel time, security, and check-in requirements, Shinkansen often proves faster for distances under 500km.

Local JR trains:

Cheaper than Shinkansen but exponentially slower. The local train from Tokyo to Osaka takes 8-9 hours with multiple transfers compared to 2.5 hours on Shinkansen.

Rental cars:

Practical for rural areas not well-served by trains, but unnecessary for major city connections. Parking costs and highway tolls can exceed Shinkansen ticket prices.

We occasionally supplement Shinkansen with domestic flights for very long distances (like Tokyo to Okinawa) but consider bullet trains unbeatable for mainland Japan travel.

Booking Activities and Experiences with Klook

Beyond Shinkansen tickets, Klook offers excellent deals on Japan activities using the same discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK.

Popular bookings include Tokyo Disney Resort tickets, Universal Studios Japan passes, teamLab Borderless tickets, Osaka Castle entry, Tokyo Skytree admission, Mt. Fuji tours, and traditional experiences like tea ceremonies and kimono rentals.

We've booked dozens of activities through Klook during our time in Japan. The platform consistently delivers competitive pricing, instant confirmation, and reliable service. Combining transportation and activity bookings on one platform simplifies trip planning significantly.

Common Questions About Shinkansen Travel

Can I use a JR Pass with Klook bookings?

No, Klook sells individual point-to-point tickets, not JR Pass reservations. JR Passes must be purchased separately through official JR channels.

Do children need tickets?

Children under 6 travel free when not occupying a seat. Children 6-11 receive 50% discounts on tickets. Children 12 and older pay full adult fares.

Can I change my Klook Shinkansen ticket?

Changes and cancellations depend on ticket type and timing. Most tickets allow changes before departure with fees. After ticket issuance, modifications become restricted. Always check specific ticket terms before booking.

What happens if I miss my train?

With reserved seat tickets, you can board the next available train in unreserved seating. Some flexibility exists, but you may need to visit a ticket counter for assistance.

Is luggage storage available at stations?

All major Shinkansen stations have coin lockers in various sizes. Large lockers accommodate standard suitcases and cost ¥500-¥700 per day. Luggage forwarding services (takkyubin) can ship bags between cities for approximately ¥2,000 per bag.

Final Thoughts on Booking Shinkansen Through Klook

After years of full-time travel including 308 days in Japan, we've settled on Klook as our primary platform for Shinkansen bookings. The combination of convenience, international payment support, English-language service, and competitive pricing makes it the clear choice for most travelers.

The QR code boarding system eliminates the stress of ticket counter queues, while the Klook app keeps all your transportation and activity bookings in one accessible place. With discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK, you'll save money while enjoying Japan's incredible bullet train system.

Book your Shinkansen tickets on Klook with discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK

Whether you're planning your first trip to Japan or returning for another adventure, Shinkansen travel will undoubtedly rank among your favorite experiences. The efficiency, comfort, and sheer engineering marvel of these trains captures something essential about Japan itself.

More Resources for Japan Travel

Connectivity: Holafly eSIM with code ADAMANDLINDS provides unlimited data throughout Japan. For extended stays over 30 days, Holafly's monthly global plans starting at $49.90/month offer better value than daily plans.

Activities and experiences: Explore Klook's full Japan offerings with discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK for tours, attraction tickets, and unique experiences.

Planning assistance: Our published travel guides and YouTube channel (Adam and Linds - The Worldschool Family) share detailed Japan travel tips based on our extensive experience.

Japan remains our favorite destination after visiting 33+ countries. The combination of rich culture, incredible food, technological innovation, and genuine hospitality creates an unmatched travel experience. Shinkansen travel epitomizes these qualities, and we hope this guide helps you navigate the system with confidence.

This post contains affiliate links. When you book through Klook using code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund our family travels and keeps our content free. All opinions and recommendations are based on our genuine experiences traveling through Japan with our three daughters.