5 Major Train Types in Japan

in Japan, train is the main mode of transport within the city, inter city or major regions in Japan. While trains can be convenient, since they are densely networked, one need to understand the major types and their main differences. Here are the following 5 types.

1.Local (kakueki-teisha, 各駅停車): these trains stop at every station, so are often the slowest but easiest option.

2. Rapid (kaisoku/Tsukin Kaisoku, 快速/通勤快速): They are of same type as above but you need to be careful with these trains, as they skip some stations. Double check the train line maps (often found on the platform and on the screens inside the trains) to make sure your desired station is listed.

3. Express (kyuko, 急行): these trains are true to their name, as they stop at a very limited number of stations. However, they are not quite as fast as ↓

4. Limited Express (tokkyu, 特急): these trains only stop only at major stations, and sometimes require an additional fee.

5. Shinkansen(新幹線): these are the famous “bullet trains” which speed along on (mostly) dedicated tracks and connect major cities. Visitors can make use of the JR Rail Pass to ride these incredibly fast trains, or buy tickets at major stations.

Except for the shinkansen, you can use convenient prepaid IC travel cards to pay for your train trips. Just touch your card as you go through the gates and go.

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