All Aboard the Fun Express: Unique Things to Do at Shinkansen Stations

Welcome aboard the thrilling ride through Japan's high-speed wonderland! Buckle up because we're about to embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring the delightful realm of Shinkansen stations. 

Beyond their reputation for whisking passengers away at astonishing speeds, these stations hold a treasure trove of hidden gems and whimsical wonders. The excitement doesn't end there; immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural encounters that await at every Shinkansen station, whether it's a traditional tea ceremony or a captivating art exhibition. 

So, grab your ticket and hop aboard as we reveal the enchanting world of fun waiting to be discovered at Shinkansen stations!

The Shinkansen network consists of multiple lines connecting various cities across Japan with its high-speed rail system, with the Tokaido Shinkansen being the oldest and most renowned, linking Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. 

Offering convenience and flexibility, the network operates on dedicated tracks exclusively and accommodates travel preferences with its range of train categories. From the fastest trains that make stops only at major stations to the slower ones that halt at every station along the way, passengers have options to suit their needs.

The Shinkansen station in Tokyo is not just a bustling transportation hub; it's a vibrant destination filled with rich history and exciting activities. Navigating this station is much easier than the busy Shinjuku or Shibuya Stations. 

Tokyo Station offers a wide range of options for souvenir shopping, including traditional omiyage snacks and pop culture or anime merchandise. You can explore galleries, admire the station's stunning architecture, and satisfy your hunger with excellent ramen choices. Plus, the station's convenient location allows easy access to attractions such as the Imperial Palace, Yurakuchō, and Ginza. 

Speaking of food, Tokyo Station is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering numerous dining options. Don't miss the chance to try an ekiben, a bento box packed with regional delicacies, perfect for enjoying your Shinkansen journey.

Satisfy your hunger for excitement with an adrenaline-pumping go-kart experience in Shinjuku! At Monkey-kart, you can go on an exhilarating go-karting adventure combined with sightseeing in the heart of Tokyo! What better way to soak in the city's lively atmosphere than to go on a 1-hour tour of Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya, right? 

Just ensure you have your international driving permit or a valid driving license in Japan, such as a local or SOFA license to participate.

Say goodbye to expensive fares and hello to hassle-free exploration with the JR TOKYO Wide Pass. This pass is a game-changer for exploring Tokyo and the Kanto area. Unlimited 3-day rides on Shinkansen, limited express, and other trains with reserved seats? It's like having a golden ticket to adventure! You can easily hit up all the hotspots like Mt. Fuji, Izu, Karuizawa, and GALA Yuzawa.

Shinagawa Station is a quintessential Tokyo experience, bustling with loads of business workers during the morning rush hour and filled with the same energetic crowd on the last train home, often enjoying their after-work drinks. 

The area is renowned for its exceptional ramen. Shinatatsu Ramen Street, located right next to the train tracks, is the place to be for a delectable bowl of this Japanese specialty. Shinagawa is also home to Shinatatsu Donburi, where you can savor various donburi dishes like oyakodon, gyudon, and tendon.

The Shinkansen station in Shin-Yokohama is a bustling center that connects Yokohama to the high-speed network. Besides its convenient transportation services, the station offers a range of attractions and amenities. 

The station building houses the Cubic Plaza shopping center, where you can find famous stores like Bic Camera, Loft, Uniqlo, and Gu. Shin-Yokohama Station is also just a short walk away from the renowned Yokohama Arena, a venue for concerts and sporting events, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts.

Nestled at Atami Station, Atami's historical hot spring town has been a haven for tired travelers for centuries. 

Beyond serving as a gateway to the breathtaking Izu Peninsula, Atami Station offers a range of exciting activities. Go on a scenic journey along the east coast (if you're not rushing to go anywhere), where you can witness the awe-inspiring cherry blossom festival (from late January to mid-February) and discover enchanting waterfalls in Kawazu.

Shin-Fuji Station, true to its name, is a haven for Mt. Fuji enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking an authentic Japanese experience at the foothills of this majestic mountain. A short distance from the station lies the charming town of Fujinomiya, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engross in the beauty of Mt. Fuji. 

You can explore the enchanting grounds of Fujinomiya City's Taisha Sengen Shrine while dressed in a traditional yukata or take a delightful bicycle ride from Shiraito Waterfall through the idyllic rural surroundings. To glimpse local culture, visit the award-winning sake brewer and learn about the art of sake making.

If you're planning a Mt. Fuji adventure, go for the Mt. Fuji Pass! With the pass, you'll score free entry to Fuji-Q Highland, home to the craziest roller coaster, and Grinpa, a super fun amusement park at the base of Mt. Fuji. But wait, there's more! Flashing your pass also gets you sweet discounts at 12 other fantastic attractions. It's the ultimate way to squeeze every ounce of fun out of your Mt. Fuji trip without breaking the bank.

The charming Shinkansen station in Kakegawa is perfect for folks who believe the journey is just as extraordinary as the destination. Take a stroll from the station, and you'll stumble upon one of Japan's most impressive castles. The castle grounds are packed with surprises — a tea ceremony house, an actual Samurai Lord's manor, a shop where you can check out samurai armor, and even a stained glass museum. 

And hold up, there's more! You can visit a bird park filled with exotic birds, where you can feed them. Hungry? Fear not! Kakegawa Station has got you covered with loads of fantastic little restaurants and shops.

If you have spare time at Hamamatsu Station, prepare for some exciting adventures! This station, which has been around for over a century since its opening in 1909, is your gateway to the vibrant Tokyo Bay area. 

Start by exploring the World Trade Center Building, directly connected to the station. You'll find restaurants and retail shops waiting for you on the second floor. Take a 3-min stroll to the impressive Acty Shiodome, Tokyo's fourth-tallest building, for a quick shopping fix. And if you're up for more, make a 10-min walk to the Shiodome City Center Shopping Mall. But hold your cravings because your visit here won’t be complete without a stop at the legendary Tsukiji Fish Market.

If you're looking for some sightseeing adventures and find yourself in Toyohashi Station, you're in luck — the city has much to offer. 

Start by exploring the historic Futagawa-Shuku, a former post station along the old Tokaido highway, where you can immerse yourself in the past. Hop on the Toyohashi Rail Road (Toyotetsu) Atsumi Line and Meitetsu Bus to Cape Irago for breathtaking ocean views. If you're up for hot springs and delicious gourmet food, head to Gamagori City! Take the Iida Line bound for the Okumikawa area for classic Japanese scenery and discover places like Mt. Horai-ji and the charming hot spring district of Yuya Onsen.

If you have spare time at Mikawa-Anjo Station before boarding the Shinkansen again, you're in for a treat! 

During cherry blossom season, make your way to Anjo Park and marvel at the stunning sight of cherry trees adorning the tranquil pond. It's a perfect spot to admire the beauty of nature. And if you are there in August, don't miss the lively Anjo Tanabata Festival! Join in the festive atmosphere with vibrant decorations, energetic dances, and the mesmerizing sight of thousands of "wish balloons" soaring into the sky. 

Outside this Shinkansen station lies a trove of activities to do. If you're a fan of miso, take a tour of the historic Hatcho Miso breweries and learn about their centuries-old techniques. For a serene escape, visit Jozan-en, a tranquil garden inspired by Shisen-do.

Did you know that Nagoya Station is the world's largest train station by floor area? It covers a whopping 410,000 square meters!

While you're here, you can't miss the two enormous towers shooting over 50 stories into the sky. The Hotel Tower has a mind-boggling 59 stories, while the Office Tower boasts 55 levels and even a helipad! When you're ready to explore Nagoya, check out the Railway Museum, Nagashima Resort Amusement Park, Tokugawa Art Museum, Toyota factory tour, Nagoya Castle, Korankei Valley, and Science Museum!

If you’re planning a trip to the breathtaking Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto area, then get yourself the 5-Day JR Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Pass for a fuss-free experience! Easily book online and have your pass voucher delivered straight to your doorstep. Once you're in Japan, exchange your voucher for the area pass, and for five consecutive days, you get to hop on trains and buses to explore from Nagoya to Toyama, including the famous Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route!

When visiting Maibara Station, keep an eye out for a delightful surprise! If you're familiar with the beloved Ghibli movie "My Neighbor Totoro," you might just glimpse the iconic creature Totoro in the forest during your journey. When traveling to Kyoto, watch out for Totoro on your left side a few minutes before reaching Maibara Station. On your return to Tokyo, Totoro will appear on your right after departing from Maibara.

Kyoto Station is the ultimate hub when you're in town! Check out the cool vibes of the station concourse, with its funky mix of lines, curves, and abstract stuff that'll leave you feeling like you're in a sci-fi movie. Head to Kyoto Ramen Street on the 10th floor and slurp some tasty ramen from all over Japan. If you need a sugar fix, swing by Nakamura Tokichi Kyoto Station Store for Kyoto-style sweets. And make sure to check out the KATO Kyoto Station Store on the 9th floor if you're into model trains!

Discover the wonders of the Kansai region with the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass! Neighboring towns like Kurashiki, Shirahama, and Kinosaki Onsen are full of charm, filled with hot springs, stunning shores, and thrilling amusement parks await. This pass is your golden ticket to explore the diverse attractions of the Kansai region.

Enjoy the freedom to choose your favorite experience in the Kansai region with the Have Fun in Kansai Pass! Dive into the best of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe as you choose three or six of your favorite attractions, restaurants, and activities. Perfect for first-time visitors, this pass grants you seamless access to popular sites, like ABENO HARUKAS Observatory, Osaka Bay Cruise, Umeda Sky Building, Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel, and so much more!

Your Kansai adventure awaits at Shin-Osaka Station, the perfect spot to explore Osaka's vibrant offerings! Start by browsing the souvenir shops and unique experiences within the station, like Chikira House, where you can get your hands on the world's first instant ramen, Chicken Ramen. Treat yourself to traditional Japanese sweets at Kiyasuso Honpo, famous for their mouthwatering "mitarashi-dango."

Book your Osaka adventure through Klook and grab the Osaka e-PASS, offering you access to over 20 exciting attractions! Explore the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, take a ride on the Redhorse Osaka Wheel, and discover the wonders of the GLION MUSEUM, plus many more. With this convenient pass, you can skip the hassle of buying tickets at the door and dive straight into the fun!

Explore multiple regions of Japan easily by booking the Sanyo Shinkansen One-Way Ticket. With this ticket, you can effortlessly go from Osaka to Fukuoka on this high-speed train operated by JR West, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h.

On your next swift ride through Japan's sleek rail network, remember to pause, explore, and indulge in the abundance of fun-filled activities awaiting your discovery. 

Shinkansen stations are not mere stops along the way — they are vibrant destinations in their own right, beckoning you to create unforgettable memories. Bon voyage!