Japan’s Shinkansen network connects major cities and key travel destinations across the country with speed and comfort.
This page brings together our Shinkansen station guides from across Japan.
Whether you are traveling through Tokyo, visiting Kyoto, heading north to Hokkaido, or exploring Kyushu, you can find the station guide you need here.
The ultimate gateway. As Japan’s largest Shinkansen terminal, it is the starting point for almost all lines heading north, west, and central.
Best for: Travelers staying in Marunouchi, Ginza, or near Tokyo Disneyland.
The smart alternative to Tokyo Station. Located in southern Tokyo, it is often less crowded and offers faster transfers to Haneda Airport.
Best for: Accessing Haneda Airport or staying in Shibuya/Shinjuku areas.
A convenient sub-hub for heading north. It connects travelers to the Tohoku, Joetsu, and Hokuriku lines without navigating the massive Tokyo Station complex.
Best for: Staying in Asakusa, Ueno, or Akihabara.
▸ Tip: If you’re deciding between Tokyo, Shinagawa, and Ueno, see our guide to choosing the right Shinkansen station for your trip.
A major Shinkansen junction north of Tokyo, where multiple lines branch toward Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Niigata. Many northbound trains stop here before leaving the Tokyo metropolitan area.
An important stop on the Tokaido Shinkansen, commonly used by travelers heading to Yokohama or transferring from central Tokyo without passing through Tokyo Station.
The gateway to Hakone. Stop here to transfer to local trains for hot springs, Lake Ashi, and views of Mt. Fuji.
The Shinkansen hub of Western Japan. Please note: The Shinkansen does not stop at Osaka Station; you must use Shin-Osaka.
Key Connections: Sanyo Shinkansen (to Hiroshima/Fukuoka) and Limited Express trains to Kansai Airport (Haruka).
The ancient capital’s modern entrance. The station itself is a massive complex with hotels, shopping, and immediate access to buses for temples and shrines.
A vital stop on the "Golden Route" between Tokyo and Osaka. Use this station to transfer for Takayama (Hida) or the Ise Shima region.
Your access point to the Japanese Alps. Famous for snow monkeys and world-class skiing (Hakuba/Shiga Kogen).
The terminal station of the Joetsu Shinkansen, connecting Tokyo with the Sea of Japan coast and the capital of Niigata Prefecture.
The cultural heart of the Hokuriku region. Known for its stunning architecture, it connects travelers to traditional gardens and fresh seafood markets.
The primary stop for visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island.
Known as the connection hub for Shikoku Island (via the Seto Ohashi Bridge) and the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
A key Shinkansen stop in northern Kyushu, serving as a connection point between the Sanyo Shinkansen and destinations across Kyushu.
The lively gateway to Kyushu. It serves as the terminal for the Sanyo Shinkansen and the starting point for the Kyushu Shinkansen.
The largest hub in the Tohoku region, offering easy access to Matsushima Bay and northern festivals.
Currently the northernmost point of the Shinkansen network, located in Hokkaido. Transfer here for trains to Hakodate City or Sapporo.
If you already have a specific route in mind, choose your station by the Shinkansen line.
Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Osaka)
Key Stops: Tokyo / Shinagawa / Nagoya / Kyoto / Shin-Osaka
Sanyo Shinkansen (Osaka ⇄ Fukuoka)
Key Stops: Shin-Osaka / Okayama / Hiroshima / Hakata
Tohoku Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Aomori)
Key Stops: Tokyo / Ueno / Sendai / Shin-Aomori
Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Tsuruga)
Key Stops: Tokyo / Nagano / Kanazawa / Tsuruga
Joetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Niigata)
Key Stops: Tokyo / Ueno / Niigata
Kyushu Shinkansen (Fukuoka ⇄ Kagoshima)
Key Stops: Hakata / Kumamoto / Kagoshima-Chuo
A major hub for limited express trains such as Narita Express and trains to Hakone, Mt. Fuji, and Nikko.
The main international gateway to Japan, with direct limited express trains to Tokyo and beyond.
The primary international airport for western Japan, connected to Osaka and Kyoto by limited express trains.
Each station listed above links to a detailed, practical guide designed for international travelers. Inside each guide, you will find:
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