Which bullet train provides the best experience solely for the train itself?
Which bullet train offers the best experience in Japan? From luxury Gran Class to traditional interiors, here are 6 Shinkansen worth riding for the train itself.
Conclusion
If you're riding the Shinkansen not just to travel—but to experience the train itself—then the N700S “Supreme” and E5 Series Hayabusa are the top picks. Whether you're into cutting-edge tech, luxury interiors, or retro charm, there's a bullet train for every type of traveler.
🏆 Best Shinkansen Trains for Train Enthusiasts & Tourists
🚄 1. N700S “Supreme” (Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen)
Best for: Modern design, comfort, and tech
💡 The “S” stands for Supreme—Japan’s most advanced Shinkansen currently in service.
✅ Why it’s the best?
- Smoother ride with upgraded suspension & reduced noise
- All seats have power outlets
- Free, high-speed Wi-Fi onboard
- Can operate during power failures (thanks to onboard battery system)
- Gran Class (luxury): Reclining leather seats, fine dining, and a personal attendant
🚆 Where it runs:
- Tokyo ⇄ Osaka (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama)
- Osaka ⇄ Hakata (Mizuho, Sakura, Kodama)
🚄 2. E5 Series Hayabusa (Tohoku Shinkansen)
Best for: Sleek design & speed
💡 One of the fastest trains in Japan (up to 320 km/h / 199 mph)
✅ Why it’s special?
- Iconic green + pink color scheme
- Futuristic cockpit loved by train fans
- Gran Class available: Top-tier seats, premium food, relaxing atmosphere
🚆 Where it runs:
- Tokyo ⇄ Aomori ⇄ Hokkaido
- Your fastest route to Sapporo (with transfers)
🚄 3. E7/W7 Series (Hokuriku Shinkansen)
Best for: Cultural elegance + luxury
💡 Design inspired by Kanazawa’s gold crafts and indigo blue dye
✅ Why it’s special?
- Beautiful gold and blue color scheme
- Quietest ride among Shinkansen models
- Gran Class offers gourmet meals using local ingredients from Hokuriku
🚆 Where it runs:
- Tokyo ⇄ Kanazawa (Nagano & Hokuriku Shinkansen)
🚄 4. 800 Series (Kyushu Shinkansen)
Best for: Traditional Japanese atmosphere
💡 The most "Japanese" bullet train in interior design
✅ Why it’s unique?
- Wooden panels and washi-paper lighting
- Tatami-like flooring for a Ryokan-like feel
- Scenic views of Kyushu's landscapes
🚆 Where it runs:
- Fukuoka ⇄ Kagoshima (Mizuho & Sakura routes)
🚄 5. 500 Series (Sanyo Shinkansen – Kodama Only)
Best for: Retro-futuristic design lovers
💡 Once Japan’s fastest, now a nostalgic favorite
✅ Why it’s nostalgic?
- Iconic long-nose design
- Now runs slower, but train fans love its vintage charm
- Great for spotting on platforms or riding for old-school thrills
🚆 Where it runs:
- Osaka ⇄ Hakata (Kodama service only)
🚄 6. E956 “ALFA-X” (Tohoku Shinkansen – Testing Only)
Best for: The future of high-speed travel
💡 A test train aiming for 400 km/h (250 mph)!
✅ Why it's groundbreaking?
- 22-meter-long nose to reduce tunnel noise
- Emergency brakes + air resistance control
- Expected to have ultra-luxury interiors
🚆 Where it runs:
- Currently in testing between Tokyo ⇄ Aomori
- Expected to debut around 2030, eventually connecting Tokyo ⇄ Sapporo
🎖 Which Shinkansen Is Best for You?
| Category | Top Choice |
|---|---|
| Speed & Technology | N700S “Supreme” or E5 Hayabusa |
| Luxury & Comfort | E7/W7 Series (Hokuriku) or Gran Class on E5 |
| Scenic & Cultural Design | 800 Series (Kyushu) |
| Nostalgic Experience | 500 Series (Sanyo Kodama) |
| Future Fanatics | E956 ALFA-X (Testing only) |
🚄 Final Thoughts
If your goal is to ride the Shinkansen not just for transport, but as an experience, then:
- Choose the N700S “Supreme” for the smoothest, most high-tech ride
- Ride the E5 Hayabusa if you’re heading north and want speed + comfort
- Try the E7 or 800 Series for unique design and cultural detail
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