Is it true that trains are the most convenient way to travel in Japan?
Railway networks are greatly developed across the nation. Japan Railways (JR) (which includes Shinkansen lines) connects all major cities nationwide, while private railway companies operate in each region. Large cities also have their fair share of subways and monorails. The Japan Rail Pass is a very economical and convenient method of accessing unlimited travel on JR lines within Japan, including the Shinkansen. For more details on fares, validity periods, restrictions and other details, please refer to Japan Rail Pass.