Wi-Fi available on all Shinkansen (from May 2019)
Japan Railway has recently announced that they will begin offering free Wi-Fi on all Shinkansen lines during the current fiscal year that ends in March.
Despite strong demand from foreign visitors, only a limited number of bullet trains have wireless Internet access at present.
The new service will be available on all the following trains, including Tokaido Shinkansen which many foreigners use to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto / Shin-Osaka.
Akita Shinkansen - by May 2019
Hokuriku Shinkansen - by September 2019
Tokaido Shinkansen - by March 2020
Sanyo Shinkansen - by March 2020
Kyushu Shinkansen - by March 2020
Yamagata Shinkansen - by March 2020
Japan Railway will also start to offer free Wi-Fi on more trains on the Hokkaido, Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines.
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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.