Book Your Shinkansen Early for Japan’s New Year Holidays (2025–2026)
This article is written by Tetsu, our Shinkansen Expert — the go-to expert for train routes, seating tips, and travel hacks.
The Busiest Season Is Coming
If you’re planning to travel in Japan during the New Year holidays, you’ll need to be quicker than ever this year.
Japan is currently experiencing a record-breaking surge in inbound travelers, and with local residents also heading home for the holidays, the competition for Shinkansen seats will be fiercer than ever before.
The New Year period — from December 26, 2025 to January 4, 2026 — is one of the busiest travel windows in Japan. Tickets can sell out within hours once reservations open, so November is the time to get ready.
Nozomi Trains: All Seats Reserved
As confirmed by JR Central and JR West, Nozomi trains on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines will be entirely reserved-seat only between December 26, 2025 and January 4, 2026.
There will be no unreserved seating, meaning you must hold a reserved ticket to board a Nozomi during this period.
If you’re traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima, booking early is absolutely essential.
Other Shinkansen Lines
Trains such as Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, and Sakura will continue to offer some unreserved seating.
However, expect long queues and crowded trains — especially around December 29–30 and January 2–3, when most people are traveling to or from their hometowns.
Even for these trains, reserved seats often sell out weeks in advance, so don’t wait until you arrive in Japan.
When Reservations Open
Tickets for Shinkansen services open exactly one month before the departure date.
For example, seats for December 26 trains become available from November 26.
💡 Pro tip from Tetsu:
The earlier in the morning you book, the better your chances of getting your preferred seats — especially for Mt. Fuji–side seats or oversized luggage seats.
How to Book Easily (in English)
You can reserve your seats online at:
➡️ Shinkansen-Ticket.com
We offer:
-
English-friendly booking system
-
Secure payment
-
Seat selection requests (Mt. Fuji view, oversized luggage area, etc.)
Tickets are issued and confirmed by our Japan-based team of experts.
Final Thoughts
With Japan welcoming record numbers of overseas visitors, this New Year season will be one of the most competitive ever for train travel.
If you want a smooth, comfortable ride on Japan’s iconic bullet train, plan ahead and book early.
Travel smart — and start your 2026 with peace of mind.
What is shinkansen-ticket.com?
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.
© 2025 Shinkansen-Ticket.com.
Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.
Tetsu
The Shinkansen Expert
With a passion for all things rail, I specialize in helping travelers navigate Japan’s extensive train network—especially the Shinkansen. From how to book reserved seats to choosing the right side for Mt. Fuji views, I provide expert guidance on riding Japan’s iconic bullet trains with ease.
Having supported countless international travelers, I understand the unique questions and challenges that come with using Japan’s rail system for the first time. My goal is to make your journey faster, smarter, and stress-free—no matter where you're from or where you're headed.