The video showcases Japan's iconic bullet trains, also known as Shinkansen. The hosts, who were invited by JR East, ride the train in Grand Class, the highest class of service, and share their experience. They visit various stations, including Morioka and Fukushima, and witness a bullet train passing by at 300 km/h. The hosts also try the food and drinks available on the train, including a complimentary bento box and sake. They discuss the comfort and luxury of Grand Class, but also mention that it's quite expensive, costing around $750 for a one-way trip from Tokyo to Hakodate.
The hosts then discuss budget-friendly options for tourists, such as the JR East Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel in the Tohoku region for five days at a cost of 19,000 yen (around $170). They also mention the "Welcome Suica" card, a prepaid card that can be used at shops and convenience stores in Japan.
Throughout the video, the hosts share their enthusiasm for Japan's train network and provide tips for riding the bullet trains on a budget.
1. The bullet train was first introduced in Japan in 1964.
2. The top speed of the bullet train is 200 miles per hour.
3. The bullet train has carried 10 billion passengers with no passenger fatalities or injuries in over 50 years of service.
4. The Japanese word for bullet train is "Shinkansen," which translates to "new trunk line."
5. Bullet trains come in three classes: ordinary, green class, and grand class.
6. Grand class was introduced in 2011 and features cabin attendants and luxurious amenities.
7. The Hayabusa bullet train has a top speed of 300 km/h (approximately 186 miles per hour).
8. Fukushima Station is a spot where bullet trains can be seen passing through at full speed without stopping.
9. Tokyo Station is the third busiest station in Japan, with 460,000 commuters passing through every day.
10. The grand class cabin features complimentary food and drink, as well as a personal attendant.
11. The grand class seat is 52.5 centimeters across with a pitch of 1.3 meters.
12. A one-way ticket from Tokyo to Hakodate on the grand class costs around US$750.
13. The JR East Rail Pass allows foreign tourists to travel anywhere in the Tohoku region for five days at a cost of 19,000 yen (approximately US$180).
14. The JR East Rail Pass comes with a free "Welcome Suica card," which can be used as a prepaid cash card at shops and convenience stores in Japan.