This article is written by Tetsu, our Shinkansen Expert — the go-to expert for train routes, seating tips, and travel hacks.
Planning to travel in Japan during the New Year holidays? The year-end season is one of the busiest times of the year for the Shinkansen (bullet train). For the upcoming holiday period, special rules apply that every traveler should know before booking.
JR Central (JR Tokai) and JR West have confirmed that during the 2025–2026 New Year holiday period, all seats on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen Nozomi services will be fully reserved.
This means there will be no unreserved seating available on Nozomi trains between December 26, 2025 and January 4, 2026.
For trains such as Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, and Sakura, unreserved seating will still be available. However, seats are expected to fill up quickly, and travelers without reservations may face long lines or the risk of not finding a seat.
The New Year holiday is one of Japan’s peak travel seasons, with millions of travelers moving across the country.
Reserved seats on Shinkansen trains can sell out weeks in advance.
Without a seat reservation on Nozomi, you cannot board the train.
If you’re planning to travel in Japan between December 26, 2025, and January 4, 2026, we highly recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets as early as possible.
Booking in advance ensures you can travel comfortably and avoid the stress of last-minute ticket shortages.
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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.