Japan Shinkansen Guide: Lines, Train Types & Seat Classes | Japan Train

Guide to the Japan Shinkansen Network and Train Types

The Japan Shinkansen network is a world-class high-speed rail system spanning the archipelago. Currently, there are 10 Shinkansen lines operated by five different Japan Railways (JR) companies. This network includes 8 standard Shinkansen lines and 2 "mini-Shinkansen" lines (the Akita and Yamagata lines), which utilize converted conventional tracks to reach more remote regions.

Shinkansen Seat Classifications: Which Ticket Should You Choose?

For international travelers, understanding the four distinct seat categories is essential for a smooth journey. Seats range from budget-friendly flexibility to high-end luxury.

1. Unreserved Seats (Jiyuseki)

Unreserved seats offer the most flexibility and the lowest price point. Typically located in Cars 1 through 3, these seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If the car is full, passengers may have to stand until a seat becomes available.

• Best for: Short trips, budget travelers, or those with flexible schedules.

• Important Restrictions:

  • The Tohoku Shinkansen (Hayabusa/Komachi) often operates as all-reserved trains with no unreserved cars.

  • During peak travel seasons (New Year, Golden Week, Obon), certain high-speed services like the Nozomi may switch to an "all-reserved" seating model.

2. Reserved Seats (Shiteiseki)

Purchasing a reserved seat guarantees you a specific spot on a specific train. While the physical seats are identical to those in the unreserved cars, the peace of mind is worth the small additional fee, especially during busy hours.

Changes and Refunds: Unused reserved tickets can usually be changed once for free at any JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-Madoguchi) before the train departs. If you miss your scheduled train, your reserved ticket loses its seat guarantee, but it remains valid for an unreserved seat on any subsequent train of the same category on the same day.

3. Green Car (Superior Class)

The Green Car is the Japanese equivalent of First Class. Marked by a green four-leaf clover logo, these carriages offer a 2+2 seating configuration (providing more shoulder room than the standard 3+2), extra legroom, deeper recline, and integrated footrests. It is an ideal choice for long-distance travelers seeking a quiet, professional environment.

4. Gran Class (Luxury Class)

Available on the Tohoku, Hokkaido, and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines, Gran Class is the pinnacle of Japanese rail travel. With only 18 seats per carriage in a 1+2 layout, passengers enjoy leather power-reclining seats, personalized attendant service, and complimentary gourmet light meals and beverages.

Shinkansen Oversized Baggage Regulations

Since May 2020, specific rules apply to passengers carrying large luggage on the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishikyushu Shinkansen lines. Navigating these rules correctly is vital to avoid on-board penalties.

Baggage Size Categories

• Standard (Under 160cm total dimensions): No reservation required. Can be placed in overhead racks or in front of your feet.

• Oversized (160cm to 250cm total dimensions): A mandatory reservation is required. You must book a "Seat with an Oversized Baggage Area" (usually the last row of a car). Failure to reserve will result in a 1,000 yen fine and the conductor moving your luggage to a designated area.

• Prohibited (Over 250cm): Luggage exceeding this limit is not permitted on the Shinkansen.

Pro-Traveler Advice for Large Luggage

While the reservation system is designed for convenience, the "oversized baggage" space behind the last row is sometimes used by other passengers incorrectly. If you have reserved this space and find it occupied, do not hesitate to contact the conductor or politely ask the nearby passengers. For a stress-free experience, travelers with multiple large bags should consider using Japan’s excellent luggage forwarding services (Takkyubin) to send suitcases directly to their next hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many Shinkansen lines are there in Japan?

A: The Japan Shinkansen network includes 10 lines operated by five JR companies, consisting of 8 standard high-speed lines and 2 mini-Shinkansen lines (Akita and Yamagata).

Q: What is the difference between Unreserved and Reserved seats?

A: Unreserved seats (Jiyuseki) are budget-friendly and available on a first-come, first-served basis, while Reserved seats (Shiteiseki) guarantee a specific spot for a small additional fee.

Q: Are there Shinkansen trains that require mandatory reservations?

A: Yes, the Tohoku Shinkansen (Hayabusa and Komachi) often operates as all-reserved, and services like the Nozomi may switch to all-reserved during peak seasons like Golden Week.