Japanese Bullet Train?

Question

I am going on the Shinkanzen or Bullet Train for the 1st time in 2 weeks. What should I expect. Will it be bumpy because of the high speeds???

Thanks

Answer 1

Lucky you! The Skinkansen is SO MUCH FUN! Imagine flying only a few feet off the ground. That's what it feels like.

I can't remember any bumps at all. It was very smooth. It's like the first class car of Amtrak. There is a snack car (very expensive), and a hostess who comes by with ice cream and sodas (less expensive, but still pricy).

The only negative at all is that something is funny with the water. We all noticed it on several different trips. Bring your own bottled water. The air is dry.

Have fun! Take photos on the platform and in the station. I'm envious :-).

Answer 2

Lucky you!
Sorry to be redundant but like the others said, you should defenitely buy something to eat before you even step foot into the train station.
Also take a book because the scenery gets boring really fast.
Get a good book, munchies, music, and comfortable clothes and you're good to go! Have fun!

And no the train ride is not bumpy. If it was then ther'd be derailments like crazy!! =O
Actually, come to think of it the Shinkansen is probably the smoothest form of transportation there is in Japan.

Answer 3

The shinkansen is extremely smooth and very safe. I don't think there's ever been an accident since it started running. Remember (and don't forget!) to be on time! The train arrives at the station exactly on time and people will already be lined up on the platform. DON'T BE LATE because it won't wait.

There are vending machines of drinks and small station kiosks that carry reasonably priced snacks.

Have fun!

Answer 4

It depends where in Japan you want to travel to. While the bullet train "known as the Shinkansen in Japan" is good, there are parts of Japan that do not have Shinkansen coverage, or just too far to travel by Shinkansen. For example, Tokyo to Sapporo, does not have Shinkansen coverage and it is a lot faster to fly, but Tokyo-Kyoto is pretty fast by Shinkansen. Sometimes its good to take the train long distances, sometimes its good to take a plane, just depends on your start points and end points. But as pointed out generally the Shinkansen trains are very comfortable.

Answer 5

No, it won't be bumpy! It's a very pleasant ride, and I agree with those who suggest bringing food and drinks with you! Not only because of the prices, but there's more choice BEFORE you go through the ticket barrier...!!

Remember though, long journeys of any kind are boring as hell! If you're journey will be a long one, make sure you bring something to occupy your mind - book, iPod, hand-held computer games or something...! Whatever you like doing on boring long journeys!

Answer 6

It will be great fun. You will be seeing scenery at a very fast pace. Have you ever rode on a regular train? It is probably just as bumpy.

Answer 7

It's as smooth as silk-the rails are continuously welded so no clickety-clack. The buffet car is kind of pricey, but has a digital speedometer so everyone can see how fast they are traveling. I suggest buying your beverages and snacks before you board to save money. The car with the private rooms is neat, you can walk through and check it out.

Answer 8

Dont get too excitied tiger, its kinda just like travelling on a plane

Answer 9

it's a very smooth ride especially when you hit long stretches between stops. To outside observers you roar past, but to you everything just glides by.

Answer 10

It's super smooth, but your ears may pop. Be sure to bring some chewing gum. It'll help unpop them. ;)