Shinkansen Seat Hacks: Find Your Perfect Spot
Choosing the best seat on a Shinkansen isn’t just about where you sit—it’s about how you want to experience your journey.
Whether you’re working, relaxing, or just making sure you don’t miss your stop, the right seat can make all the difference.
So, what’s your Shinkansen travel style? Let’s find out!
For the Productivity Pros: Front Row or Window Seat
Need to get some work done on the go?
- Front-row seats have larger tray tables, perfect for spreading out your laptop and documents.
- Window seats let you focus without aisle disturbances. Plus, if you need power, you’re in luck!
Pro Tip: Avoid aisle seats if you hate dodging fellow passengers.
For the Sleep Seekers: Window Seat or Last Row
Want uninterrupted nap time?
- Window seats keep you safe from aisle disruptions.
- Last-row seats allow full reclining without worrying about the person behind you.
Extra Tip: Bring noise-canceling earbuds if you’re near high-traffic areas like doors or restrooms.
For the Battery Conscious: Window Seat (Charge Up While You Ride!)
Worried about your phone or laptop dying mid-journey?
- Most modern Shinkansen trains have power outlets at window seats (Seat A & E, or A & D in Green Class).
- Outlet availability varies, so check your train type in advance.
Charge Hack: If traveling with a friend, book the window and aisle seats—you get space, power, and no middle-seat stranger!
For a Peaceful Ride: Middle of the Car
The ends of the carriage are busy with boarding passengers and restroom-goers.
Choose a mid-car seat for less foot traffic and a quieter ride.
Bonus: In Nozomi & Hikari’s 3-seat rows, Seat B is slightly wider. A great pick if you love extra space!
For the “I Can’t Miss My Stop” Travelers: Near the Deck Entrance
Afraid of oversleeping and waking up in the wrong city?
- Seats near the deck entrance are ideal for those who need to stay alert for their stop.
- But beware! These spots have more passenger movement and might not be the best for a peaceful ride.
Smart Move: Set a phone alarm before your arrival time so you don’t need to rely on external noise!
How to Request Your Preferred Seat
When booking through our website, add your seating request in the comments section or email us with your order number after booking.
We’ll do our best to secure your ideal spot.
Your Shinkansen journey is what you make of it. Choose wisely and travel in comfort!
© 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.