The end-of-year and New Year period in Japan is a special time when families gather to celebrate. However, it’s also the busiest travel season of the year. If you're visiting Japan for the first time during this time, it’s crucial to prepare for the travel rush and secure your train tickets. Here’s everything you need to know!
Why Is Travel So Busy During the New Year Period?
The New Year, or "Oshogatsu," is the most significant holiday in Japan, similar to Christmas or Thanksgiving in other countries. During this time, many Japanese people return to their hometowns to celebrate with their families, creating two main travel peaks.
Outbound Peak (December 28-29)
- Most Japanese companies finish work on December 27 (Friday).
- The following day, December 28, marks the beginning of the exodus to family homes, causing trains heading from cities to rural areas to become extremely crowded.
Inbound Peak (January 3-5)
- After the three days of New Year celebrations, people return to cities from January 3 to 5.
- Since work and school start again on January 6 (Monday), trains heading to Tokyo are particularly packed during this period.
Key Points for Shinkansen Travel
Reserved Seats Only (NOZOMI trains)
- On major routes like Tokyo - Kyoto and Tokyo - Shin-Osaka, all seats are reserved during the New Year period.
- This means you must book your seat in advance. There are no non-reserved seats available, so early booking is essential.
- These trains are extremely popular, and many of them are already sold out.
- Specifically, the outbound trains from December 28 to 30, from morning to midday, are mostly fully booked.
Ski Resorts Are Especially Popular
- If you're planning a ski trip, remember that trains to ski resorts are also in high demand.
- In particular, the train connecting Shinjuku - Hakuba runs only once a day, making it highly crowded.
Tips for First-Time Foreign Visitors to Japan
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Plan Ahead
Tickets for busy travel dates sell out quickly. Review your travel plans and book your tickets early. -
Avoid Peak Days
If possible, try to avoid traveling on December 28-29 (outbound) or January 3-5 (inbound). Opt for less busy dates when possible. -
Use Online Booking Services
Services like Shinkansen-ticket.com allow you to reserve seats before you arrive in Japan, making your travel smoother and more convenient. -
Understand Japanese Etiquette
When using public transportation, be sure to maintain a quiet environment, and avoid blocking aisles or seats with your luggage.
Secure Your Tickets Now!
The year-end and New Year travel rush is both a cultural experience and a time when careful planning is key. Make sure your travel plans are set by visiting Shinkansen-ticket.com to book your tickets. Act now to enjoy a stress-free trip to Japan!
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What is shinkansen-ticket.com?
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.