Over this past weekend, we took a trip to Tokyo to explore the surrounding city via the infamous Shinkansen, which operates at a maximum speed of 285 km per hour.
We purchase our tickets.
Head to the gates early.
And wait for the train to arrive.
The station is now empty.
And quiet without the rush of the people.
Some people will wait inside this heated room for the train as opposed to outside in the cold.
As we wait, a train races past, but it is not ours :(
On the wall nearby, we notice the train route posted up to ensure travelers are boarding the correct train.
While we're waiting, we decide to buy a tasty beverage out of the vending machine, which ranges in price from 110 and 160 JPY.
Not far away, there are recycle bins for patrons to use.
Now more people begin to arrive and wait for their trains.
Our train is finally here! In a year, up to 155 million travelers will board the Shinkansen to reach their final destination.
It is equipped with LAN Internet connection, and riding comfort is enhanced with noise suppression technology.
As it approaches the station, passengers wait behind the yellow line for it to come to a complete halt.
Riders will then board the train and find their seats.
And place their luggage in the overhead storage area. Face masks are used to prevent the spread of germs.
Once we arrive at our seats, there are cupholders in place.
And hangers to drape our coats.
We purchased strips of beef over rice to snack on during the train ride.
The amazing thing about these meals is that they have self-heating capabilities. You pull this yellow string out of the tiny hole provided within.
Once it is removed, the meal will begin the heating process, and be ready to eat within five to six minutes according to package instructions.
Once it is ready, we remove the outside packaging.
And the lid, and enjoy a nicely warm treat.
Now that we have finished eating, we can sit back and relax for the rest of the ride.
Our seats recline back, and the leg rests elevate for even more comfort.
As we walk up the aisles, passengers are fast asleep. Stay tuned for the rest of our journey...
**All photos above are my original content.