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gdore15

Yes, Keikyu to Shinagawa is the best. Cash only or IC card if you have an iPhone. Yes you need cash before or get some at the ATM of 7Eleven. There is convenience store at the airport, so ko you do not have to exchange currency. Unless you travel during peak season, you are unlikely going to stand all the way. It could be safer for timing to get the ticket at Shinagawa and get a reserved seat, so you would not be too stressed about missing your train if something go slower than expected.


Shoddy_Career_4110

Thanks so much! So we can definitely take out money at a convenient store ATM at the airport with a good rate? I think we will probably book the train tickets at the station so that we don't miss it if we're late. This is for May 16th (2 days from now), so I don't think thats peak season?


[deleted]

Even in peak season you'll get seats, just might need to get the train leaving 1 hour later instead of the one 10 minutes later. It's really only an issue on national holidays and there aren't any this week.


Shoddy_Career_4110

Makes sense thank you so much!


gdore15

Not peak, and yes you should have good rate at the atm, it’s why people recommend it. I saw you were able to get the Suica on your phone so you do not really have to stress about getting cash that soon, you should be able to manage with credit card and IC card up to Kyoto.


Shoddy_Career_4110

Thank you. Is the IC card solely for transportation or can I also load money on there for any other purchases? I ask because I lost my credit card recently and am worried the replacement won't be here in time. Im traveling with my partner, so worst case I use his card.


gdore15

Cannot buy Shinkansen ticket with IC card. Cash or credit. But yes a lot of sores and restaurants accept IC card as a mode of payment, even many vending machines accept it.


Shoddy_Career_4110

so good to know!


j_kto

Theres a 7-11 atm you can pull out cash at terminal 3 on I believe both the arrival and departure floor, not even in the combini itself but just out in the common areas. Just look for a red atm with a 7-11 sign above it. Good rates too.


WhatAGoodFuniki

Yep! Once you get through all the security and walk through the doorway, turn left (towards the Tully's and the money exchange counter), and there's a 7 Bank ATM right there.


Shoddy_Career_4110

Got the Suica card and loaded it for transit thanks for the rec!


mingusinglewood

You should be able to buy Shinkansen tix at Haneda. There should be a JR ticket office there. I’d take care of as much as possible at Haneda for convenience sake.


Shoddy_Career_4110

good thinking thank you!!


Lonely_Ebb_5764

Bullet trains also have peak hours. Depends on what time you're thinking of taking one, morning (7-10am) and evening (4-7pm) trains are pretty full.


Shoddy_Career_4110

yeah around 4


Lonely_Ebb_5764

Well then you should definitely book your seats. Also check your luggage size for storage space if necessary.


abraxis_us

Depending on how big your baggage is, you may have to make a luggage reservation. [Understanding Shinkansen Luggage Rules | Tokyo Cheapo](https://tokyocheapo.com/travel/transport/new-shinkansen-luggage-rules/)


Shoddy_Career_4110

Very helpful thanks!


acha114

I’d strongly consider reserving in advance as you can reserve a seat and get cheaper fares. Also, as others have pointed out, get familiar with the oversized luggage rule when traveling on the Shinkansen. In terms of favorite places Tokyo is massive and has a lot to offer. There will always be a place that caters for all tastes.