Shimbashi means “New Bridge,” and Shimbashi Station serves just such a purpose in Tokyo’s Minato special ward. Previously known as Karasumori Station, Shimbashi Station’s current location first opened its doors in 1909. Its predecessor, the original Shimbashi Station which opened in 1872, is located a few kilometers away. It is one of the oldest train stations in Japan and serves as a museum. Today, Shimbashi Station serves more than 250,000 passengers each day.
Visit the best Japanese museums from home: Virtual tours
Although you may not be planning to travel around Japan with a JR Pass for a while, it’s now possible to explore some of Japan’s best museums digitally and get a good idea of what to expect when you do arrive.
It’s now entirely possible to visit a range of galleries and museums in Japan online via offer a virtual exhibition tour, simply by using the Google Arts & Culture Street View from the comfort of your sofa.
Shinkansen Timetables: How to find and read
Although the public transportation network is incredibly efficient and Japanese trains are a great way to get around the whole the country, foreign visitors to Japan may at first have some difficulty navigating timetables and deciding which trains they need to catch.
Furthermore, while many railway, bus and ferry schedules may be published online on the website of the operators, it may often be difficult to find English-language versions.
Osaka’s Shinsekai district: Travel Guide
Shinsekai means “New World” in Japanese. This Osaka neighborhood is home to cheap foodie favorites, dive bars, and other colorful surprises. Check out our guide to safely enjoying this step back in time.
Studio Ghibli Theme Park is now open: what to expect
Children around the world have grown up with beloved animated films from Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. Since 1984, Studio Ghibli films have often served as an introduction to the wider world of anime and have obtained a cult following all their own.
Many Ghibli fans have already made a pilgrimage to the popular Studio Ghibli museum in Tokyo. Others eagerly anticipate the release of the upcoming Ghibli film, How do you Live? But fans will be thrilled to learn that the Ghibli theme park opened on November 1, 2022, and is now bringing the films to life in Nagoya!
JR Joban Line: Connecting Tokyo with Tohoku region
The Joban Line, or Jōban-sen, is a portion of Japan’s extensive commuter railway system, operated by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East). It connects the bustling metropolis of Tokyo with the Tohoku Region to the north. With the aid of a Japan Rail Pass, you can use this train system to quickly, easily, and affordably travel throughout Japan.