How to Take the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station

Shinagawa Station is one of Tokyo's major transportation hubs and an excellent gateway to Japan's famous Shinkansen bullet train network. Located in central Tokyo, this modern station connects you to destinations across Japan, from ancient Kyoto to vibrant Osaka and beyond.

This guide will walk you through every step of riding the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station. Whether you're a tourist visiting Japan for the first time or an expat still learning the train system, you'll find clear instructions to make your bullet train experience smooth and stress-free.

Station Overview: Understand the Layout and Exits

Shinagawa Station has a logical layout with two main sides connected by a central area. Understanding this basic structure will help you navigate confidently.

● Related Information: Guide Maps for Major Stations (Shinagawa Station) | JR-EAST Website

Konan Exit (East Side): Closest to the Shinkansen entrances

The Konan Exit is on the east side of the station. This exit is your best choice when riding the Shinkansen because:

• It's the closest exit to the Shinkansen ticket entrances
• Signs clearly direct you toward the bullet train platforms
• Most office buildings and business hotels are on this side

If you arrive at Shinagawa by taxi or from nearby hotels, ask to be dropped off near the Konan Exit.

Takanawa Exit (West Side): Hotels and Local Attractions

The Takanawa Exit leads to the west side of the station. This area has:

• Many hotels and shopping areas
• Tourist attractions and entertainment venues
• Restaurants and local businesses

You can walk from the Takanawa Exit to the Shinkansen entrances through the central area, though it involves a short walk across the station.

Central Concourse: Where Everything Connects

The Central Concourse runs between both exits on the second floor. This wide hallway is the heart of the station where you'll find:

• Digital information boards in Japanese and English
• Ticket vending machines and JR ticket offices
• The main pathways to all train lines, including Shinkansen

This central area is where you'll handle most of your pre-departure preparations, from buying tickets to finding the correct entrances for your bullet train journey.

Step-by-Step Guide: Riding the Shinkansen

Follow these four simple steps to board your Shinkansen at Shinagawa Station.

Step 1: Buy or Receive Your Shinkansen Ticket

Before you can board the Shinkansen, you need a valid ticket. You have several options:

If you already have tickets

We recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets online before arriving at the station to avoid waiting in lines. Japan Bullet Train offers convenient online booking with QR codes that you can exchange for paper tickets at the station. Simply look for the ticketing machines near the Shinkansen entrances.

● Related Information: Shinkansen Ticket Guide: Ticketing Machines & Locations | Japan Bullet Train

If you need to buy tickets

You can purchase tickets at Shinagawa Station using:

• Ticketing machines: Look for machines with multilingual support (including English) near the Shinkansen entrances. These accept cash and credit cards.
• JR ticket offices: Staff can help you with complex bookings or activate your Japan Rail Pass. Look for the green window signs.

Important

Keep your tickets ready. You'll need them to pass through the entrances and show to staff on the train.

Step 2: Find the Shinkansen Entrances

Once you have your tickets, follow the signs to the Shinkansen area:

1. Look for blue signs that say "Shinkansen (新幹線)" throughout the Central Concourse
2. Do not enter the ticket gates for local JR lines; these are different from the Shinkansen entrances
3. The Shinkansen entrances are located on the eastern side of the Central Concourse

You'll see two sets of Shinkansen entrances:

Shinkansen Tracks North Entrance (新幹線のりば北口)

Shinkansen Tracks South Entrance (新幹線のりば南口)

Both entrances lead to the same platforms, so choose whichever is more convenient.

Step 3: Go Through the Entrance with Your Ticket or Pass

• With individual tickets: Insert your tickets into the automated gate slot. If you have multiple tickets, insert them together. Remember to collect them when they pop up on the other side.
• With Japan Rail Pass: Show your pass to the staff member at the staffed gate next to the automatic gates. If you also have a reserved seat ticket, show both items.
• With IC card: Some travelers can use IC cards like Suica for non-reserved Shinkansen seats. Make sure you've registered for this service beforehand.

Step 4: Find Your Platform and Board the Train

After passing through the Shinkansen entrances, check the departure boards immediately:

1. Find your Shinkansen information: Look for your Shinkansen name (Nozomi, Hikari, or Kodama), departure time, and platform number
2. Go to your platform: Shinagawa Shinkansen platforms are numbered 21-24. Follow the signs and use escalators or elevators to reach the platform level
3. Find your boarding position: For reserved seats, find your car number on the platform markings. For non-reserved seats, check the platform signs for the designated cars (usually cars 1–3)
4. Wait safely: Stand behind the yellow safety line until the train arrives

Boarding tip: Let passengers exit the train before you board. Store large luggage in overhead compartments or designated areas quickly.

Final Tips for a Smooth Departure

Following these simple recommendations can save you time and reduce stress on your travel day.

• Arrive early: Allow 30–45 minutes if you already have tickets, or up to 60 minutes if you need to buy tickets or activate a Japan Rail Pass, especially during busy travel periods.
• Check your destination: Double-check the train’s final destination and departure time on the platform displays before boarding.
• Ask for help: Station staff wear uniforms and are accustomed to assisting foreign travelers. Don’t hesitate to show them your ticket if you need directions.
• Keep your tickets handy: You’ll need your ticket to enter and exit the Shinkansen gates, and you may be asked to show it during your journey.

For More Information about Shinagawa Station

For information about station facilities like coin lockers, restrooms, and food options, check our detailed Shinagawa Station Guide.

●　Related Information: Shinkansen Shinagawa Station: Restaurants, Lockers, Ticket Gates & Platforms | Japan Bullet Train

Ready for Departure

Riding the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station is straightforward when you know what to expect. The station has excellent multilingual signage, and staff are experienced in helping international travelers.

Remember to book your tickets in advance through Japan Bullet Train for the most convenient experience. With your tickets ready and these step-by-step instructions, you're prepared to enjoy one of the world's most famous train experiences.

Have a safe and comfortable journey on the Shinkansen!