Traveling by train is more prevalent in Japan than in most other countries around the world. Statistics from the OECD showed that in 2021, 28% of passenger kilometers in Japan were traveled by rail, compared to just 0.25% in the United States and 5% in the United Kingdom.
A large part of this frequent use is due to the excellence of their railway system—particularly evident in the iconic Shinkansen or bullet train—which puts many others to shame.
Planning to travel in Japan with a Hokuriku Arch Pass? At a cost of 30, 000 yen (less than 200 USD for 7 days), the Hokuriku Arch Pass is worth it if you’re planning to extensively explore the Hokuriku region and take in key cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Following on from the success of the Disney Magical Journey Shinkansen, a new Disney bullet train took to the rails of Japan’s high-speed rail network.
The Wonderful Dreams Disney Shinkansen, a collaboration between JR Central and Tokyo Disney Resort, launched on February 21, 2025. This special Disney shinkansen was introduced for a limited time to help commemorate the opening of Tokyo DisneySea’s “Fantasy Springs” area. The train made it’s final journey on September 15, 2025.
Anime fans, prepare for an unforgettable journey! The One Piece Shinkansen debuted in spring 2025, transforming the iconic Sanyo Shinkansen line into a moving tribute to Eiichiro Oda’s legendary series.
Following the success of themed trains like the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, this collaboration between JR West and the beloved One Piece franchise brings the vibrant world of Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates to Japan’s high-speed rail network.
Planning to explore Japan but not sure the JR Pass fits your travel budget?
The Japan 14-Day Value Pack might be just what you need! Designed for flexibility and savings, this pack is ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple cities without the cost of a full-country pass.
An exciting new attraction for video game enthusiasts now calls Kyoto home: the Nintendo Museum. Situated in the Uji district, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of one of Japan’s most iconic gaming companies.
Opening from October 2024, the Nintendo Museum provides fans with a glimpse into the evolution of Nintendo, from its early days as a playing card company to its groundbreaking innovations in the gaming world.
