In Tokyo, the primary hub for the Shinkansen (bullet train) is Tokyo Station, located in the Marunouchi district. This is the only station where all Shinkansen lines—including the Tokaido, Tohoku, Joetsu, and Hokuriku lines—originate or pass through. However, depending on which direction you are traveling, you may also board at Shinagawa Station or Ueno Station. The Tokaido Shinkansen (bound for Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka) stops at both Tokyo and Shinagawa. If you are heading north toward Sendai or Hokkaido, or northwest toward Kanazawa, your train will stop at Tokyo and Ueno. In 2026, Tokyo Station remains the most logical starting point for tourists due to its massive scale and central location. It is important to look for the specific "Shinkansen" gates, which are separate from the local JR and subway lines. The station is vast, so arriving 20 to 30 minutes early is recommended to navigate the subterranean passages, find your specific platform, and perhaps pick up an "Ekiben" (station bento box) for the high-speed journey ahead.