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How does a bullet train discount work?

By on September 11, 2015

Fares
As a rule of thumb, children from 0 to 6 years old are free but this discount is limited to 2 children per one accompanying adult. Elementary school age kids from 6 years old to 12 pay half of adult fare. Adult rate is applied to children ages 13 and up. However, students traveling to places more than a 101-km distance can ask for a ‘student discount’ by presenting a student ID.

Shitei seiki (reserved seats) vs Jiyuu seki (random seats)
Shitei seki or reserved seats are more expensive than normal fares and are usually booked in advance. With Shitei seki, your seats are secured. Elementary school age children pay half of an adult’s fare.
But if you are taking the Green Car (Grand Class), expect to pay adult fare even for kids. There is no child fare in the case of Green Car.

With Jiyuu seki ,  you pay less and can seat anywhere you please. However,  you must be prepared to stand if trains are crowded.

Shinkansen Hotel package  (JR Shinkansen + Shukuhaku Plan)
By taking a Shinkansen Hotel package, you get reserved shinkansen seats and accommodation in one booking.  For families, this package works out much cheaper than buying train fare and paying for hotel accommodation separately.  Check the fares here (English) Japanese

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