Shinkansen "Nozomi" to Be Fully Reserved Seating during 2023-2024 New Year Holidays
JR Tokai and JR West Japan announced on September 13th, 2023, that during Japan's "Big Three Peak Seasons" – the year-end holidays, Obon (Festival of the Dead), and Golden Week – the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen "Nozomi" services will operate with fully reserved seating, with no unreserved seating available.
This change in operation will take effect starting from December 28, 2023, through January 4, 2024, during the year-end holiday period.
During these Big Three Peak Seasons, reserved seats often become fully booked quickly, resulting in long lines for unreserved seating on the platforms, which can lead to delays in boarding and disembarking. To address these challenges, it was decided to make all seats on the "Nozomi" services during these peak periods fully reserved.
For other Shinkansen services such as "Hikari," "Kodama," "Mizuho," and "Sakura," unreserved seating will continue to be available as usual during the same period.
Secure Your Shinkansen Tickets for 2023-2024 New Year Holidays in advance!
With this announcement, it is expected that reserved seat reservations for the Shinkansen during the year-end holidays will be more crowded than usual, making it more challenging to secure seats.
If you're planning a trip to Japan for the year-end holidays, it's a good idea to secure your tickets with us now!
© 2025 Shinkansen-Ticket.com.
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.