Disruption on Shinkansen Lines: Power Outage Causes Service Suspension
According to JR East, around 9:58 AM (JST) on January 23rd, a power outage occurred on the Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Joetsu Shinkansen lines.
Upon inspection by staff, it was confirmed that the overhead wires were hanging down on the up track between Ueno Station and Omiya Station.
As a result of this incident:
- Services have been suspended in both directions between Tokyo Station and Sendai Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen.
- The stretch between Tokyo Station and Nagano Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen is experiencing a disruption in both directions.
- Both up and down services between Tokyo Station and Niigata Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen are temporarily halted.
JR East has dispatched maintenance crews to the site of the wire trouble to assess the situation further.
However, due to the anticipated time required for both assessment and restoration work, the resumption of services is expected to take a considerable amount of time.
We will continue to provide updates on the situation as more information becomes available.
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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.