Seat Guide Shinkansen East and Hokkaido

Seating and Facilities Guide

Seat Class:

Reserved Seat

• Assigned seating. Travel date, departure time, car number, and seat number are confirmed
  

• Ideal for all travelers who require a guaranteed seat and a confirmed itinerary for their trip
• Seat layout: 2 + 3 

Seat designs vary depending on the train.

Green  Reserved

• Assigned seating. Travel date, departure time, car number, and seat number are confirmed

• Business Class Comfort: Wider seats and more legroom compared to Ordinary Reserved Seats

• Ideal for travelers seeking maximum comfort with wider space and a quieter environment

• Seat layout: 2 + 2

Seat designs vary depending on the train.

Gran Class 

• Assigned seating. Travel date, departure time, car number, and seat number are confirmed

• First Class Comfort: Most spacious and quiet car on the train, positioned above Green Reserved in comfort and privacy

• Large reclining leather seats with legrest and footrest, designed for long-distance relaxation

• Complimentary amenities such as blanket, slippers, and other small comforts are provided

• On some services, dedicated attendants offer light meals and a selection of drinks at your seat

  • Light meals and drinks are only provided with products labeled "Gran Class - with Light Meals & Drinks." 

  • Light meals and drinks are not included with products labeled "Gran Class - without Light Meals & Drinks."

• Ideal for travelers seeking a premium, airplane–first-class–style experience on the Shinkansen

• Seat layout: 2 + 1 (three seats per row, maximum 18 passengers per car)

Seat designs vary depending on the train.

Unreserved Seat

• No seat assignment. You may sit in any open seat in the Unreserved Cars on the day of travel

• First-come, first-served. During busy travel periods, standing may be required 

• Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize flexibility and don't require a guaranteed seat

• Not available in: Hayabusa, Kagayaki trains

• Seat layout: 2 + 3 (same configuration as Reserved Seat)

Facilities:

Wheelchair Accessible Seating

• Available only in Reserved Ordinary Cars, located near wheelchair-accessible restrooms

• Dedicated space next to the seat to accommodate a wheelchair

• Requires advance reservation (limited quantity)

• Nearby seating for attendants is usually provided

• Requests for these seats can be made on our product page 

Overhead Rack Storage

• Standard overhead racks are installed above all seats

• Suitable for medium–large standard suitcases

Large Item Storage Area (Vehicle End)

• Dedicated space at the ends of cars (Ordinary Cars only)
• Accommodates skis, snowboards, and oversized suitcases that do not fit overhead racks
• No reservation required – first-come, first-served access for all passengers