1.
limited express train, super express
A fast train that stops at fewer stations than regular express trains.
If you take the limited express, you'll arrive one hour earlier than the regular train.
特急 is short for 特別急行 (special express), a fast train making limited stops.
TRAIN SPEED HIERARCHY (slowest to fastest):
1. 各駅停車/普通: local (all stops)
2. 快速: rapid
3. 急行: express
4. 特急: limited express
5. 新幹線: bullet train
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 特急に乗る: to take the limited express
- 特急料金: limited express surcharge
- 特急券: limited express ticket
NOTE:
特急 usually requires an additional surcharge (特急料金) on top of the base fare.