About the "Shinkansen e-Ticket (Tokudane Time Sale 60% Discount)" in Japan
In June 2025, a large-scale, limited-time discount will be offered on Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet trains). This is the first campaign of its kind by JR East, called the “Shinkansen e-Ticket (Tokudane Time Sale 60% Discount).” Selected routes, trains, and seat classes will be available at a massive 60% off the regular price. Here is a clear and detailed explanation for foreign travelers planning to visit Japan.
Overview of the Discount
Name: Shinkansen e-Ticket (Tokudane Time Sale 60% Discount)
Discount Rate: 60% off the regular price
Eligible Tickets: Reserved seats in ordinary class on specified Shinkansen routes, trains, and sections
How to Purchase: Online reservation only via the “Eki-net” service
Who Can Use: Anyone who can register for Eki-net (including foreign travelers)
Eligible Routes, Trains, and Sections
The following Shinkansen lines, with specific trains and sections, are eligible for this time sale:
| Line | Main Eligible Train | Example Section |
|---|---|---|
| Akita Shinkansen | Komachi | Tokyo – Akita |
| Yamagata Shinkansen | Tsubasa | Tokyo – Yamagata |
| Joetsu Shinkansen | Toki | Tokyo – Niigata |
Not all trains or sections are eligible. Please check the official Eki-net website or campaign page for detailed information.
Example Discounted Prices (One-way, Reserved Seat, Ordinary Class)
Tokyo – Akita (Komachi): Regular ¥17,820 → Discounted ¥7,120
Tokyo – Yamagata (Tsubasa): Regular ¥11,250 → Discounted ¥4,490
Tokyo – Niigata (Toki): Regular ¥10,560 → Discounted ¥4,210
As you can see, these are significant reductions compared to the usual fares.
Campaign Usage & Sales Period
The time sale is held in two rounds. The reservation period differs depending on your travel dates, so please pay attention.
| Round | Travel Period | Sales Period (Reservation Window) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | June 2 (Mon) – June 11 (Wed), 2025 | May 22 (Thu) 5:00 AM – May 30 (Fri) ~1:00 PM |
| 2nd | June 12 (Thu) – June 22 (Sun), 2025 | May 23 (Fri) 5:00 AM – May 30 (Fri) ~1:00 PM |
Even within the sales period, tickets may sell out as quantities are limited.
How to Reserve and Purchase
1. Register as an Eki-net Member (Free)
Register on the Eki-net website. Registration is available from outside Japan as well.
2. Reserve Your Shinkansen e-Ticket via Eki-net
Go to the Shinkansen e-Ticket service page on Eki-net, select your preferred section, date, and train.
If there are seats available for the “Tokudane Time Sale 60% Discount,” the discounted price will be displayed.
Reservations can be made in Japanese or English.
3. Payment and Ticket Issuance
Pay online by credit card.
If you register a transportation IC card (such as Suica or PASMO), you can use it to pass through the ticket gates—no paper ticket required.
If you prefer, you can also print a paper ticket at ticket machines in Japan, but ticketless travel is recommended.
4. Important Notes
Advance reservations (“Eki-net Advance Booking”) are not available for this campaign. Reservations open at the same time as sales begin.
Changes and cancellations are restricted. Please check the terms and conditions when booking.
Seats are limited, so early reservation is recommended.
Key Points and Precautions
Available to Foreign Travelers: No passport or residence card is required, but Eki-net membership registration is necessary.
IC Card Use is Convenient: If you have a Japanese transportation IC card, you can ride without a paper ticket.
Child Fares Available: Discounted child fares are also available.
Not All Trains/Sections Eligible: Be sure to check if your preferred train and section are eligible at the time of booking.
Cannot Be Combined with Other Discounts: This time sale cannot be combined with other discounts or coupons.
Travel Planning Tips
Perfect for Visiting Tohoku and Niigata: Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata are famous for beautiful nature, hot springs, historic towns, and gourmet food. This is a great chance to visit regional cities that are usually more expensive to reach.
Book Early for Weekends and Popular Dates: Seats are limited, and weekends or holidays may sell out quickly.
English-Friendly: Eki-net offers an English website, so foreign travelers can book with confidence.
Summary
The “Shinkansen Time Sale 60% Discount” in June 2025 is a rare opportunity to travel on specific Akita, Yamagata, and Joetsu Shinkansen routes at 60% off the regular fare. Reservations are only available via Eki-net, and both the sales and travel periods are limited, so book as soon as your plans are set. Take advantage of this chance to explore Japan’s regional cities at a great price!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can I book from outside Japan?
A. Yes, Eki-net membership registration is available from overseas, and credit card payment is accepted.
Q2. How do I receive my ticket?
A. The default is ticketless travel using a registered IC card. If you need a paper ticket, you can print it at ticket machines or pick it up at a ticket counter in Japan.
Q3. Can I change or cancel my reservation?
A. Some changes and cancellations are possible, but restrictions apply for time sale tickets. Always check the terms and conditions when booking.
Official Information & Where to Check Details
Eki-net official website (Japanese & English)
JR East official press releases
Take advantage of this Shinkansen time sale and enjoy a comfortable, affordable trip around Japan!
