Beer On The Shinkansen: What's Allowed?

In Japan, it is legal to drink on the Shinkansen, and passengers are allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages on board. Beer, sake, and whiskey are also sold on the Shinkansen. While drinking on the Shinkansen is legal, it is not always socially acceptable. The shorter the trip, the less socially acceptable drinking is. Additionally, drinking in public is generally more acceptable when done quietly and respectfully.

Yes, you can drink beer on the Shinkansen

Drinking in public is allowed in Japan, although it is generally frowned upon to make a spectacle of it. So, while you can enjoy a beer on the Shinkansen, it is important to be respectful and not disturb other passengers. This is in line with the Japanese concept of "meiwaku", which refers to the discomfort or inconvenience caused between people. In the context of eating and drinking on trains, it is understood that others do not want to see or hear you consuming food or drinks, nor do they want to smell what you are consuming. Therefore, it is best to keep any food or drinks discreet and avoid hot or strong-smelling food.

If you are riding in a reserved seating car, you will have more freedom to consume food and drinks, as these cars tend to be used for longer rides and have more space and civility. You can also expect a fold-down tray, which makes eating and drinking more comfortable.

If you are looking for a unique beer to enjoy on the Shinkansen, you might want to try The Premium Malt's by Suntory. This German Pilsner-style beer is one of the company's best-selling brews and it even features the Shinkansen on its limited-edition cans.

Drinking in public in Japan

In Japan, drinking in public is allowed. This means that you can legally drink a can of beer on the street or on a train. However, it is important to be respectful and mindful of local culture and norms when consuming alcohol in public spaces. While drinking in public is permitted, it is generally not common for everyone to do so. Typically, the people who drink in public in Japan are older men, people of a "lower class", or salary men after work. It is important to be mindful of your surroundings and to avoid causing any disturbance or discomfort to others around you.

When riding the Shinkansen, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol. There are also kiosks and shops located within the Shinkansen stations and platforms where you can purchase drinks, snacks, and obento boxes. However, it is important to remember that drinking and being loud on public transportation can be considered disrespectful and may disturb other passengers. It is advisable to follow the local customs and consume alcohol quietly and in moderation if you choose to drink on the Shinkansen or other forms of public transportation in Japan.

While Japan allows drinking in public, it is important to be mindful of your surroundings and to respect the local culture and norms. This includes being considerate of others, avoiding causing any disturbance, and not using public spaces as a substitute for a nightclub or izakaya. Additionally, drinking and driving, including operating vehicles such as cars and bicycles, is illegal and can result in penalties.

In summary, while drinking in public is permitted in Japan, it is important to do so respectfully and in moderation. Be mindful of your surroundings, follow local customs, and avoid causing any disturbance to others. Remember that when visiting Japan, you are a guest in their country, and it is important to respect their cultural norms and expectations.

Buying beer at the station

If you want to buy beer at the station to drink on the Shinkansen, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can look for KIOSKs located either inside or outside the Shinkansen gates, which sell drinks, food, and books/magazines. These kiosks are often located inside the gates, on the way to the platform, making it convenient to purchase items before boarding. Additionally, some stations have kiosks and shops located directly on the platforms.

Large stations, such as Tokyo Station, typically have many stores inside and outside the Shinkansen gates, offering a variety of options for purchasing beer. You can also find small shops selling drinks, obento boxes, and sandwiches, which can be a great option for a quick purchase. Each station usually has unique obento boxes featuring ingredients popular in that particular area, so it can be fun to explore the different options available at each location.

It is worth noting that while drinking in public is allowed in Japan, it is important to do so respectfully. Drinking and being loud on the train may be looked down upon by some in Japanese society, so it is essential to be mindful of local cultural norms and expectations.

Shinkansen etiquette

Shinkansen trains in Japan are renowned for their cleanliness and efficiency. To ensure a pleasant journey for all passengers, there are several unwritten rules of etiquette to observe when travelling on the Shinkansen.

Firstly, it is important to be mindful of the concept of "meiwaku", which refers to the discomfort or inconvenience caused between people. In the context of the Shinkansen, it is understood that passengers do not want to see, hear or smell others eating. Therefore, eating on the Shinkansen is generally discouraged, especially on non-reserved, local and regional trains where passengers are in close quarters. If you must eat, opt for small, quiet, odourless, and room-temperature snacks.

On reserved seating trains, which tend to be used for longer rides, eating is more acceptable, although hot food is still discouraged due to its strong aroma. Drinks are permitted on these trains, and vendors sell snacks, bento boxes, sandwiches, and drinks on board. It is also acceptable to bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol, on board.

When it comes to behaviour, talking loudly is considered rude, and most passengers converse in minimal whispers. Talking on the phone is restricted to designated areas, and phone users should wear headphones to avoid disturbing others. Smoking is generally prohibited, but some Shinkansen trains have a designated smoking car. Respect priority seating for the elderly, those with physical limitations, and pregnant women or those with small children. Keep your belongings tidy and avoid crowding the walkway, especially during busy times. When disembarking, use the phrase "sumimasen" (pronounced soo-me-mah-sen) to politely signal to others that you need to pass.

By following these etiquette guidelines, you can ensure a pleasant and comfortable journey for yourself and your fellow passengers on the Shinkansen.

Where to buy Shinkansen tickets

In Japan, you can drink a beer in public, including on a train. However, it is important to do so respectfully, as drinking and being loud may be looked down upon by some in Japanese society.

Now, when it comes to buying Shinkansen tickets, there are a few options available to you:

Ticket Offices:

JR ticket offices are available at every major and most minor train stations across Japan. Credit cards are accepted at the majority of these offices, and you can also activate your JR Pass and make seat reservations here. To buy a ticket, you will need to provide the following information:

• Number of passengers
• Regular or Green Car (first class)
• Reserved or non-reserved seat
• For a seat reservation, you will also need to provide the train name, and whether you require smoking or non-smoking.

Ticket Machines:

Ticket vending machines are available at stations and can be used to purchase limited express tickets and reserve seats. These machines are equipped with English menus and sell tickets in English. Some machines only offer Shinkansen tickets, while others only offer seat reservations, and it's worth noting that not all machines accept foreign credit cards.

Online:

Shinkansen tickets can also be purchased online, either directly from the train company or through third-party apps and websites. However, it is worth noting that some websites and apps may only be in Japanese or have limited payment options.

At the Station:

Tickets can also be purchased at the train station, either on the day of travel or in advance. Both kiosks and ticket counters are available, and the kiosks usually have a language option to make it easier for foreign travellers. The stations accept cards, and you can also pay with cash.

Frequently asked questions