Concerned about wheelchair accessibility when riding the Shinkansen?
Take a moment to explore this blog for insights to help plan your trip smoothly.
Wheelchair Accessibility on the Shinkansen
In the past, the number of dedicated wheelchair seats on each Shinkansen was extremely limited, typically around two seats per train.
However, in preparation for the Tokyo Olympics scheduled for 2020 (which ultimately became a spectator-less event...), efforts were made to increase the number of wheelchair seats to approximately 10 per Shinkansen.
This enhancement has created a more accessible environment for individuals using wheelchairs to travel on the Shinkansen.
JR station staff offers valuable assistance for a seamless Shinkansen experience when boarding and disembarking for wheelchair users. Their support includes guiding through station facilities, providing ramp or elevator assistance during boarding, and ensuring a safe exit from the train.
To optimize this assistance, it is highly advisable to proactively request help in advance, allowing staff to cater to specific needs and ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.
You have two booking options:
- A seat for a wheelchair
- A spot in the last row of cabins
Your choice depends on your wheelchair's type and size, so make sure to check the allowed dimensions for Shinkansen travel.
For non-foldable wheelchairs meeting regulations* (max dimensions of 120 cm in length or height and 70 cm in width), consider reserving a designated wheelchair seat and placing your wheelchair next to yours.
*Note: Wheelchair regulations on the Shinkansen restrict dimensions to 120 cm (length or height) and 70 cm (width).
If your foldable wheelchair fits within 250 cm (height + width + length limited to 2 meters), you can reserve a seat in the last row and stow your wheelchair behind it.
Where to Find Shinkansen Accessibility Information
For detailed accessibility information on each Shinkansen, visit the following pages:
- JR Central Official page for mobility scooter users (English)
- JR East Official page for Accessibility (English)
- JR West Official page for Accessibility (English)
How to Make Bookings for Wheelchair Seats
You can reserve your seats by:
- Visiting a JR Ticket Office ("Midori no Madoguchi" in Japanese).
- Calling the relevant Japan Railway company (JR Central, JR East, JR West, JR Kyushu, or JR Hokkaido) for your Shinkansen.
Although many wheelchair tourists visit JR Ticket Offices upon arrival, reserving seats by phone before leaving home can be more convenient.
JR Central and JR East have an English-speaking contact.
Contact Lists:
- JR Central Official Booking page for Wheelchair seats (English)
- JR East Official Booking page for Wheelchair seats (English)
Get Your Tickets in Advance with Us!
However, making a sudden call to an unfamiliar railway company in a foreign country to reserve wheelchair-accessible seats might be quite challenging.
In such situations, feel free to reach out to us.
We'll happily arrange your seats and deliver them to your preferred location in Japan or abroad.
Contact us at Shinkansen-Ticket.com when you're ready to explore Japan with ease!
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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.