This article is not about Tokyo, but I actually rode this train myself, so I wanted to share a few things I noticed.
I rode the Limited Express Shinano in August 2026.
There were a few things I thought:
“I’m glad I know this now, but I wish I had known it before boarding.”
So let me share them with you.
The Limited Express Shinano is a limited express train that runs between Nagano Station in Nagano Prefecture and Nagoya Station in Aichi Prefecture.
It can be useful if you want to visit places like Zenko-ji Temple or Matsumoto Castle in Nagano, enjoy retro Japanese scenery around areas like Magome-juku, or continue on to Nagoya for Nagoya Castle and local food.
The ride from Nagano to Nagoya takes about three hours.
That is long enough that a little preparation can make your trip much more comfortable.
Reserved Seats Are Safer If You Can Get One
The Limited Express Shinano usually has reserved seats and some non-reserved seats.
If you can book a reserved seat, it is much easier.
You can simply arrive at the station in time for your train and know that your seat is already secured.
I especially recommend a reserved seat if you have large luggage or if you are riding for a long section, such as between Nagano and Nagoya.
One thing to keep in mind: non-reserved seats may not be available in some seasons, and the train may operate as reserved seats only.
Please check before your trip.
1. Don’t Expect to Charge Your Phone on Board
This was the thing that surprised me the most.
When I rode the Limited Express Shinano in August 2026, I could not find any power outlets or USB ports around my seat.
If you are used to newer Shinkansen trains or newer limited express trains, you might think:
“Well, I can probably charge my phone somewhere.”
But on the Shinano, I recommend assuming that you cannot charge your phone on board.
The ride from Nagano to Nagoya takes about three hours.
If you use your phone for maps, photos, translation apps, or checking your next route, the battery can drain faster than you expect.
I really recommend bringing a portable charger.
Please do not underestimate this one.
2. The Toilet in Car No. 3 Was a Japanese-Style Squat Toilet
There are toilets on the Limited Express Shinano.
When I rode it, there were toilets in car No. 1, car No. 3, and car No. 5.
But here is the important part.
When I rode the Shinano in August 2026, the toilet in car No. 3 was a Japanese-style squat toilet.
You may have seen squat toilets in other countries too, but if you are not used to the Japanese-style version, this one may feel a little unfamiliar.
Also, the Shinano can sway quite a bit, so please don’t feel like you have to try it just for the experience.
If you are not comfortable using it, I recommend using the toilets in car No. 1 or car No. 5 instead.
Even if your seat is in car No. 3, you can walk to car No. 1 or car No. 5 when you need to use the toilet.
Just be careful when moving between cars, because the train can sway while you walk.
If you look at the photo, you can clearly see what a Japanese-style squat toilet looks like.
If you are not comfortable with this type of toilet, please do not force yourself to use it.
Just go to another car.
3. Don’t Count on Buying Food or Drinks on Board
Another important thing is food and drinks.
When I rode the Shinano, there was no food or drink service on board.
The ride from Nagano to Nagoya takes about three hours.
If you board without anything, it might feel a little tough.
I recommend buying a drink before you get on the train.
If you think you might get hungry, it is also a good idea to buy something light, like rice balls, bread, or snacks, at the station.
Especially in summer, I really think you should buy at least a drink before boarding.
A Little Preparation Makes the Ride Much Easier
To sum it up, here are the main things to know before riding the Limited Express Shinano:
- Bring a portable charger, because you may not be able to charge your phone on board.
- If you are not comfortable with Japanese-style squat toilets, use the toilet in car No. 1 or car No. 5.
- Buy drinks and light food before boarding.
- Check before your trip whether non-reserved seats are available.
The Limited Express Shinano is a convenient train for traveling between Nagano and the Nagoya area.
You can enjoy the scenery along the way, and it can be a useful route for sightseeing.
But if you ride it with the same expectations as a newer Shinkansen train, you might be a little surprised.
Just knowing these things before boarding can make the ride much more comfortable.
Enjoy your trip!