How to Use a Non-reserved Seat on the Shinkansen
Non-reserved seats on the Shinkansen: How to book and how to use it
Guide to riding the Shinkansen bullet train in a non-reserved seat! How to buy a ticket and tips on how to make sure you get a seat!
If you have never ridden the Shinkansen before, it is natural that you do not know how to buy a ticket or how to ride the Shinkansen. In this article, as a guide to riding the Shinkansen, we will extensively explain the features of unreserved seats, how to buy them, and how to ride the Shinkansen. Please read on, as it will eliminate any anxiety or resistance you may feel about riding the Shinkansen.
What is a non-reserved seat on the Shinkansen?
Basically, when you buy a ticket for a Shinkansen bullet train you can buy one with reserved seating, or without reserved seating. Most Shinkansen trains have 1-5 cars marked as ‘non-reserved’ and operate on a first come, first seated basis. You don’t have a designated seat, so if the train is full you may even have to stand for the entire journey.
Advantages and disadvantages of a non-reserved seat
The main advantages and disadvantages of a non-reserved seat on the Shinkansen are as follows.
Non-reserved seats are ideal for those who want to use the Shinkansen at any cost, or for those who do not know exactly when they will board the train on the same day. However, it is not suitable for people who have a lot of luggage or who want to be sure of a seat for a long trip.
Differences from Reserved Seats, Green Car and Grand Class
While unreserved seats don’t have fixed seating, reserved seats are reserved in advance, so you can be sure of a place to sit.
Green car does not refer to a seat, but a special car, and you can choose either unreserved seats or reserved seats as in the case of standard cars. It is recommended for passengers who want to ride in comfort, with more room between seats, etc., for a higher fare than the standard car.
Grand Class is a special seat available only on the Tohoku Shinkansen, Hokkaido Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, and Joetsu Shinkansen. The fare is higher than that of the Green Car, but the seats are more spacious and you can enjoy free snacks and drinks.
Cars with Non-reserved Seats
The cars with non-reserved and reserved seats on the Shinkansen are predetermined for each train type.
Since it depends on which Shinkansen line you are boarding, research at station platforms or online to make sure you don’t make a mistake.
Please note that not all Shinkansen cars have non-reserved seats. Also, there may be no more non-reserved seats available during certain periods, such as during the year-end and New Year holidays. So depending on the line and train type, and time of the year, it may be easier to board if you book a reserved seat.