Do they serve coffee on Shinkansen?

Beyond the Bento Box: Specialty Coffee Now Riding the Rails on Select Shinkansen

For decades, the Shinkansen (bullet train) has been synonymous with efficiency, speed, and the iconic ekiben (train station bento box). But now, select passengers on the Tokaido Shinkansen, traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto, are in for an entirely different, and decidedly more refined, experience: specialty coffee crafted by award-winning baristas.

Forget the vending machine coffee. This isn’t just about caffeine; it’s about elevating the entire journey. On specific Nozomi trains, a trio of celebrated Japanese baristas – Ishitani Takayuki, Yuya Kosakada, and Nishio Ippei – are setting up shop onboard, transforming the mundane commute into a mobile coffee haven.

These aren’t just your average coffee makers. Ishitani Takayuki, Yuya Kosakada, and Nishio Ippei are masters of their craft, known for their meticulous attention to detail, expertise in sourcing high-quality beans, and a deep understanding of the nuances of coffee brewing. They are bringing this dedication to the unique environment of a high-speed train.

Imagine gliding through the Japanese countryside at 300 kilometers per hour, the picturesque scenery flashing past your window, while you savor a perfectly brewed cup of pour-over coffee, prepared with precision and passion. The experience promises to be a sensory delight, a welcome respite from the often-hectic pace of travel.

This isn’t just about offering a delicious beverage; it’s about adding a layer of sophistication and enjoyment to the Shinkansen experience. It’s a testament to the Japanese commitment to excellence and attention to detail, extending even to the seemingly simple act of enjoying a cup of coffee.

The availability of this premium coffee service is currently limited to specific Nozomi train services on the Tokaido Shinkansen route. Keep an eye out for announcements and signage when booking your ticket to see if your journey coincides with this special offering.

So, next time you’re planning a trip between Tokyo and Kyoto, consider the possibility of experiencing this unique blend of high-speed travel and high-quality coffee. It might just be the perfect way to start, or end, your journey. It’s a chance to experience a distinctly Japanese interpretation of luxury: efficient, elegant, and undeniably delicious. The question isn’t just “do they serve coffee on the Shinkansen?”, but rather, “are you ready to experience coffee on the Shinkansen, elevated?”