How to Use Shinkansen Ticket Gates in Japan

A Step-by-Step Guide for Smooth Travel

If you're planning to ride the Shinkansen (bullet train) in Japan, you might be wondering:
"How do I use the ticket gates?"
Don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of entering and exiting the Shinkansen gates, including what to do with your tickets.

Let’s break it down!
 

First: What Kind of Ticket(s) Do You Have?

When you buy your Shinkansen ticket from a vending machine, there are two possible types:

1. Two separate tickets
   
   • a base fare ticket (乗車券 / jōshaken) + a limited express ticket (特急券 / tokkyūken)
     or
2. One combined ticket A single ticket that includes both the base fare and the express fare.
    

Both are valid—it just depends on where and how you bought them.

In the photo shown, we’re using a single combined ticket, but don’t worry—the process is exactly the same for both types!

At the Entrance Gate (Boarding the Shinkansen)

If You Have Two Tickets:

Place both tickets together, stacked one on top of the other, and insert them into the automatic gate at the same time.

If You Have One Ticket:

Just insert it as it is!

The gate will open, and your ticket(s) will pop out at the other end.
Be sure to take them and keep them with you—you’ll need them again when you exit.
 

At the Exit Gate (After Getting Off the Train)

When you arrive at your destination, head to the Shinkansen exit gates.

Insert the same ticket(s) you used earlier:

• If you had two tickets, insert them together again.
   
• If you had one ticket, just insert that one.
   

One ticket will come out (even if you inserted two), so make sure to take it and keep it.

This is your final fare ticket, which proves you’ve paid for the trip.

One More Step: Exiting the JR Station

After passing through the Shinkansen exit, you’re still inside the JR station.

Now head to the regular JR ticket gate (for local trains and station exits).

Insert the last ticket you received from the Shinkansen gate.

Once you go through, you're officially out of the station!
Welcome to your destination!

Summary: Quick Tips

 Keep your tickets safe—you’ll need them multiple times.
Always insert both tickets together if you have two.
Don’t forget to take your ticket after each gate!
Final ticket goes into the JR gate to fully exit the station.

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