The Shinkansen (Bullet Train) in Japan runs with a frequency that rivals many city subways. On the busiest line, the Tokaido Shinkansen connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, trains can depart as frequently as every 3 to 5 minutes during peak morning and evening hours. In 2026, the "Nozomi" service—the fastest category—often sees up to 12 departures per hour alone. Even the slower "Hikari" and "Kodama" services run multiple times per hour. On other lines, such as the Tohoku or Kyushu Shinkansen, the frequency is slightly lower but still remarkably high, typically with a train every 15 to 30 minutes. The system is world-renowned for its unmatched punctuality, with the average delay across the entire network usually being less than 60 seconds. This high frequency means that for most routes, you can simply show up at the station and be on a train within minutes, though seat reservations are highly recommended during holiday periods like Golden Week or New Year.