A spin-off of the Densha de Go! series, Shinkansen focuses on the titular high-speed rail line San'yō Shinkansen (through the entire route both ways, between Shin-Ōsaka and Hakata).

The game was later ported to the Wii as Densha de Go! Shinkansen EX: Sanyoushinkansen-hen (loosely translated to "Go by Train! Shinkansen EX: Sanyou Shinkansen Edition") on March 1, 2007. This version features a new "Kids Mode" utilizing the Wii Remote's motion control.