Do you have to reserve a seat on Shinkansen?

Shinkansen Travel: To Reserve or Not to Reserve

When planning your travels on Japan’s renowned Shinkansen bullet trains, one question arises: is it necessary to reserve a seat in advance? While pre-booking is certainly an option, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine the best choice for your specific needs.

Can You Travel Without a Reservation?

In most cases, yes. Shinkansen tickets are often readily available for purchase at the station on the day of travel. This is especially true for off-peak hours and less popular routes. Purchasing your ticket at the station eliminates the hassle of pre-booking and allows for greater flexibility in your itinerary.

When to Consider Reserving a Seat

While purchasing at the station is generally convenient, there are a few instances where pre-booking a seat might be advantageous:

• Large luggage: If you’re traveling with bulky luggage, such as large suitcases or musical instruments, reserving a seat in advance can guarantee you a luggage space near your seat.

• Peak travel times: During peak travel periods, such as Golden Week or weekends, pre-booking can ensure you have a confirmed seat, especially if you’re traveling on a popular route.

• Special needs: Passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility may want to reserve a seat in advance to request assistance and ensure they have an accessible seat.

How to Reserve a Seat

If you decide to pre-book your Shinkansen seat, you can do so through the following channels:

• Online: Use official Japanese railway websites or authorized ticket agents such as Japanican or Klook.
• At a travel agency: Visit a travel agency in your home country or at major stations in Japan.
• At the station: Ticket offices at Shinkansen stations offer reservation services, although availability may be limited.

Note: When making a reservation, you will need to specify the date, time, and departure station of your trip. You may also be able to choose your seat.

Conclusion

Whether to reserve a seat on a Shinkansen depends on your individual needs and preferences. For most travelers, purchasing tickets at the station on the day of travel is simpler and less of a hassle. However, if you have large luggage, are traveling during peak times, or have special needs, pre-booking a seat may be a worthwhile consideration.