Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen 🇯🇵 DON'T MAKE THIS MISTAKE!

Summary

Join us on a thrilling Shinkansen adventure from Tokyo to Kyoto! Experience the bustling Tokyo Station chaos, as we navigate ticket gates, grab delicious EKIBEN lunchboxes, and board the sleek, fast N700S Supreme Shinkansen. From minor luggage mishaps to the smooth, high-speed ride, we share all the ups and downs. Once in Kyoto, enjoy a more relaxed vibe and a cozy traditional hostel. Learn how to avoid rookie mistakes and make your journey stress-free with Klook for easy ticket booking. A trip full of culture, speed, and surprises!

Takeaways

• 😀 Tokyo Station is huge and can be overwhelming, so arrive 1.5 to 2 hours early to navigate it easily.
• 😀 It’s important to find the correct Shinkansen gates, as some QR codes may not work at all gates.
• 😀 The Tokaido Shinkansen is a fast and comfortable train, with smooth, quiet rides that make the journey relaxing.
• 😀 Booking Shinkansen tickets through platforms like Klook can prevent confusion and ensure smoother travel experiences.
• 😀 Be sure to check your luggage space when booking Shinkansen tickets, especially for oversized bags.
• 😀 The Bento boxes (Ekiben) available at stations are fresh, flavorful, and part of the authentic travel experience in Japan.
• 😀 The N700S Supreme Shinkansen is Japan’s latest high-speed model, offering plenty of legroom and features like adjustable seats.
• 😀 Kyoto has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Tokyo, with fewer skyscrapers and more traditional-style houses.
• 😀 The experience of navigating Tokyo Station can be chaotic, especially for first-time visitors; signage can be tricky.
• 😀 The Shinkansen is punctual and offers a hassle-free travel experience, as trains usually depart and arrive on time.
• 😀 The entire Shinkansen journey was quick (around 2 hours 15 minutes), yet comfortable and efficient.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the video?

The main goal of the video is to document the experience of traveling on the fastest Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, while navigating the challenges of Tokyo Station and sharing tips on booking the Shinkansen.

Why is it important to arrive early at Tokyo Station when taking the Shinkansen?

It's important to arrive early because Tokyo Station is huge and chaotic. Finding the correct track, especially for the Tokaido Shinkansen, can take up to an hour, and getting lost is common for first-timers.

What challenges did the travelers face when trying to use the QR code to board the Shinkansen?

The travelers faced difficulties with the QR code as it was not initially recognized at the ticket gate, leading them to have to ask for assistance and figure out the correct gate to use for scanning their QR tickets.

What is 'EkiBen' and why is it significant to the experience?

'EkiBen' refers to Japanese bento lunch boxes sold at train stations, and they are a cultural experience. The travelers enjoy purchasing and eating EkiBen during their Shinkansen journey, with the meal offering a unique taste of Japanese cuisine.

What is the difference between the Tokaido Shinkansen and the N700S Supreme?

The N700S Supreme is the latest and fastest model of the Shinkansen series, offering extra comfort features like adjustable seats, ample leg space, and smooth travel, while the Tokaido Shinkansen is the route that connects Tokyo and Kyoto.

What was the issue with the travelers' luggage on the Shinkansen?

The travelers mistakenly placed their luggage in areas that were not designated for oversized luggage. This led to their suitcases being moved, causing embarrassment and disruption for other passengers.

What solution did the travelers find for booking Shinkansen tickets smoothly?

The travelers recommend using Klook, a booking platform that simplifies the Shinkansen reservation process. Klook provides clear options like selecting oversized luggage spaces and choosing the Mount Fuji side of the train, making the experience more user-friendly.

What is the significance of the 60th anniversary of the Tokaido Shinkansen in the video?

The 60th anniversary of the Tokaido Shinkansen is celebrated with special EkiBen bento boxes, with one of the meals in the video being a limited-edition commemorative bento that highlights the cultural and historical importance of the train route.

What makes the Shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Kyoto unique?

The Shinkansen ride is notable for being incredibly fast (taking just over two hours) and smooth, with little rattling inside the train. The experience is enhanced by the quiet, calm atmosphere, typical of Japanese public transport.

What cultural aspect of Japan is highlighted when the travelers check into their accommodation in Kyoto?

The cultural aspect highlighted is the custom of removing shoes before entering a home or certain accommodations in Japan, ensuring cleanliness and respect for the living space.