Important Notice: No Unreserved Seats on Nozomi Shinkansen During Golden Week 2025
This article is written by Tetsu, our Shinkansen Expert — the go-to expert for train routes, seating tips, and travel hacks.
If you are planning a trip to Japan during Golden Week 2025, here’s an important update regarding the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen services.
During the busy Golden Week holiday period, the Nozomi Shinkansen will have all seats designated as reserved seats, with no unreserved seating available.
What is Golden Week?
Golden Week is one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons, consisting of multiple national holidays in late April and early May.
Many people take this opportunity to travel domestically and internationally, leading to high demand for transportation, including Shinkansen services.
Nozomi Shinkansen: All Reserved Seats from April 25 to May 6, 2025
From April 25 (Friday) to May 6 (Tuesday), 2025, all Nozomi Shinkansen trains on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines will require seat reservations.
This means there will be no unreserved seating available between Tokyo and Hakata on all Nozomi trains.
Due to the high volume of travelers during Golden Week, it is essential to book your tickets as early as possible.
Book Your Tickets Early
Many trains during this period are expected to be fully booked quickly.
To ensure you have a seat, we strongly recommend making your reservations as soon as possible.
You can book your Shinkansen tickets easily on our website.
By securing your tickets in advance, you can avoid the stress and inconvenience of finding available seats during one of Japan's busiest travel periods.
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.
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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.
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.