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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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.
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.
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.
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.