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129 centimeter snowfall in 48 hours disrupts Japan

Updated: Mar 19

This cold front, described as the strongest in several years, has led to record snow accumulations in various parts of Japan.
The Shinkansen bullet train, capable of reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h, faced disruptions as heavy snowfall hit Japan—an unusual delay for a rail system known for its punctuality. Photo courtesy of Central Japan Railway
The Shinkansen bullet train, capable of reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h, faced disruptions as heavy snowfall hit Japan—an unusual delay for a rail system known for its punctuality. Photo courtesy of Central Japan Railway

On February 8, 2025, Japan's Shinkansen bullet train services faced significant disruptions due to heavy snowfall, particularly affecting the Tōkaidō Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Osaka.


Trains operated at reduced speeds from the day's first service, leading to delays exceeding 30 minutes, with the potential for longer disruptions as conditions persisted.


The severe weather also impacted other Shinkansen lines. The Yamagata Shinkansen experienced partial service cancellations and suspensions between Fukushima and Shinjō stations due to heavy snow on the Ōu Line. Similarly, the Jōetsu Shinkansen reported delays and partial cancellations between Tokyo and Niigata stations.


In response to the adverse conditions, operators advised passengers to stay updated on the latest service information and anticipate potential delays. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasted continued heavy snowfall, especially in regions along the Pacific coast where such weather is uncommon. Authorities urged residents to exercise caution, recommending the use of snow tires and advising against non-essential travel.


This cold front, described as the strongest in several years, has led to record snow accumulations in various parts of Japan. The town of Shirakawa in Gifu Prefecture recorded 129 cm of snow within 48 hours, marking a new high. Residents have faced challenges clearing snow and navigating closed roads.

Travelers planning to use Shinkansen services are advised to check the latest updates from official sources and prepare for possible delays or cancellations due to the ongoing severe weather conditions.


The Nebuta Festival, held annually from August 2 to 7 in Aomori, is one of Japan's most vibrant summer events. Featuring massive illuminated floats, energetic dancers, and traditional music, it’s a must-see attraction along the Tōhoku Shinkansen route. Photo: Yuichi Kosio, Flickr CC BY 2.0
The Nebuta Festival, held annually from August 2 to 7 in Aomori, is one of Japan's most vibrant summer events. Featuring massive illuminated floats, energetic dancers, and traditional music, it’s a must-see attraction along the Tōhoku Shinkansen route. Photo: Yuichi Kosio, Flickr CC BY 2.0

Facts about Shinkansen


The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is Japan's world-famous high-speed rail network. Here are key facts about its speed, routes, history, and technology:


Speed and performance

  • The fastest Shinkansen in operation is the N700S on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, reaching 320 km/h (199 mph).

  • Experimental trains like the LO Series Maglev have reached record speeds of 603 km/h (375 mph).

  • Shinkansen trains are known for safety, with zero passenger fatalities due to accidents since operations began in 1964.


Major Shinkansen routes and destinations

There are 9 Shinkansen lines, connecting Japan’s major cities:

  • Tōkaidō Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka): Japan’s busiest high-speed rail line, linking Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in just 2.5 hours.

  • Sanyō Shinkansen (Osaka – Fukuoka): Extends the Tōkaidō line to western Japan, reaching Hakata (Fukuoka).

  • Tōhoku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Aomori): Serves northern Honshu, with branch lines to Akita and Yamagata.

  • Hokkaidō Shinkansen (Aomori – Hakodate, future expansion to Sapporo): Connects Honshu to Japan’s northernmost island.

  • Jōetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo – Niigata): Popular for access to ski resorts in Niigata Prefecture.

  • Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Kanazawa, future extension to Osaka): Links Tokyo with scenic Kanazawa.

  • Kyushu Shinkansen (Fukuoka – Kagoshima): Connects southern Japan with high-speed travel.


Ticketing and travel times

  • The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited Shinkansen travel for tourists on most lines.

  • Travel times:

    • Tokyo to Kyoto: ~2 hours 15 minutes

    • Tokyo to Osaka: ~2 hours 30 minutes

    • Tokyo to Fukuoka (Hakata): ~5 hours


Unique Shinkansen features

  • E5 and E6 Series (Green and Red Shinkansen): Known for aerodynamic duck-bill noses to reduce noise in tunnels.

  • Double-decker Shinkansen: Some models, like the retired E4 series, featured double-decker seating.

  • Luxury seats: Gran Class offers first-class comfort with fully reclining leather seats.

  • Punctuality: Average delay is less than 1 minute per train.


Future of the Shinkansen

  • Chūō Shinkansen (Maglev line): Expected to open between Tokyo and Nagoya by 2027, reducing travel time to 40 minutes.

  • Sapporo extension: The Hokkaidō Shinkansen will extend to Sapporo by 2030.

  • Sustainable trains: The N700S series has battery-powered self-driving capabilities for emergencies.


Shinkansen ticket prices, station facilities, and travel tips


Shinkansen station facilities

Shinkansen stations are well-equipped with various amenities:

  • Ekiben Bento Boxes: Specialty lunch boxes unique to each station.

  • Coin Lockers: Available at major stations for luggage storage.

  • Wi-Fi & Charging Ports: Free Wi-Fi on newer Shinkansen models. USB charging in some seats.

  • Shopping & Dining: Tokyo and Osaka stations have extensive shopping malls and restaurants.

  • Luggage Policy: Large suitcases (over 160 cm in total dimensions) require advance reservations.


Travel tips for first-time riders

Reserve Seats During Peak Season: Golden Week (May), Obon (August), and New Year are busy. Arrive Early: Some platforms are large, and finding your car may take time. Use Suica or Pasmo Cards: For quick transfers and purchases inside the station. Silent Mode on Phones: Talking on the phone is discouraged inside train cars. Watch the Departure Times: Trains leave precisely on time—don’t be late!


How to book online

How to book Shinkansen tickets online

You can book Shinkansen tickets in multiple ways:

Official JR Websites & Apps

Advantages:

  • English support

  • Digital tickets (scan your QR code at the gate)

  • Discounted fares for early bookings


Ticket machines

  • Available at all major Shinkansen stations

  • Supports cash & credit cards

  • Reserved and non-reserved tickets available


Japan Rail Pass (For Unlimited Shinkansen Travel)

  • Purchase online before arriving in Japan → https://www.japanrailpass.net

  • Exchange at JR offices in Japan

  • Covers most Shinkansen routes (except Nozomi & Mizuho trains)


Best Sightseeing stops along Shinkansen routes

Tōkaidō Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka – Fukuoka)

Hakone (Odawara Station) – Famous for hot springs & Mt. Fuji views Kyoto (Kyoto Station) – Temples, geisha districts, and historic sites Himeji (Himeji Station) – Japan’s most famous samurai castle


Tōhoku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Aomori)

Nikko (Utsunomiya Station) – UNESCO temples & waterfalls Sendai (Sendai Station) – Gateway to Matsushima Bay Aomori (Shin-Aomori Station) – Nebuta Festival & seafood markets


Hokkaidō Shinkansen (Tokyo – Hakodate – Sapporo by 2030)

Hakodate (Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station) – Stunning night views & seafood Sapporo (Coming in 2030) – Snow Festival & beer culture


Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Kanazawa – Future extension to Osaka)

Nagano (Nagano Station) – Snow monkeys & Zenko-ji Temple Kanazawa (Kanazawa Station) – Samurai history & gardens


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