Helpful Information for Non-Japanese Speakers Under Unforeseen Circumstances
Due to natural disasters struck Japan frequently this summer, there had been some delays and cancellation of Shinkansen. When these unforeseen accidents occur, tourists from outside Japan who don't speak Japanese often get left behind, since many of the announcements are often made in Japanese only.
Here, we have gathered information provided by Japan Railway which will help you find the latest status of the Shinkansen.
Latest train Operation status can be searched from these links:
List of train numbers will be shown in these links when cancelled or delay occurs. No special message will be shown when everything is on schedule.
JR Central (Tokaido Shinkansen: Tokyo - Kyoto - Shin-Osaka)
https://traininfo.jr-central.co.jp/shinkansen/pc/en/index.html
JR West (Sanyo Shinkansen: Shin-Osaka - Okayama - Hiroshima - Hakata)
http://global.trafficinfo.westjr.co.jp/en/sanyo
https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/
JR East
(Tohoku Shinkansen: Tokyo - Sendai - Akita - Shin-Aomori - Shin-Hakodate Hokuto)
(Hokuriku Shinkansen: Tokyo - Karuizawa - Nagano - Toyama - Kanazawa)
http://traininfo.jreast.co.jp/train_info/e/service.aspx
Telephone-based Service is also available:
JR Central
+81-50-3772-3910 (or 050-3772-3910 from Japan)
Please press "3" while the guidance (in Japanese) is in operation. The operator will answer in Japanese, but there is an English speaking operator standing by, so please talk to the operator in English and ask for English translation.
JR East
+81-50-2016-1603 (English, Chinese and Korean) (or 050-2016-1603 from Japan)
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/customer_support/infoline.html
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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.