Shinkansen reserved vs non-reserved seats: which to choose
A reserved seat guarantees you a place on a set train. A non-reserved seat is first come, first served on any train that day. On the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, all Nozomi seats are reserved in major peak periods.
The difference
- Reserved seat: you book a specific train in advance and your seat is guaranteed.
- Non-reserved seat: you board a non-reserved car on your travel date and take any free seat. It is first come, first served, so the train may be full.
On the Tokaido Shinkansen, the non-reserved cars are Nozomi cars 1-2, Hikari cars 1-5, and Kodama cars 1-6 and 13-16. These are subject to change, so check the sign on the platform.
How to buy
- Online: Smart EX (app or website) gives you a QR ticket you can use at the gate. The app is available only in some countries; elsewhere use the website.
- At the station: ticket machines have multilingual menus and give you a paper ticket.
- A free online account allows unlimited changes. QR tickets can be changed up to 4 minutes before departure.
Peak periods
During major peak periods, all seats on Nozomi trains of the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen are reserved. With a non-reserved ticket you cannot sit on a Nozomi, but you may stand on the deck of an ordinary car. Hikari and Kodama keep non-reserved seats.
Reserved seats generally go on sale at 10:00 AM, one month before departure.
If you miss your train
You can use a non-reserved seat on a later train on the same day and route. Your seat on that train is not guaranteed.
Japan Rail Pass
A standard Japan Rail Pass does not cover Nozomi. Pass holders must buy a separate Nozomi option ticket. In peak periods that ticket covers only standing in an ordinary car unless you reserve a seat.
FAQ
Which should I choose with big luggage?
A reserved seat is easier. See our guide on oversized luggage on the Shinkansen too.
Is a QR ticket a real ticket?
Yes, you use it at the gate. Keep the seat information slip from the machine, which is not a ticket.
Are the details the same on all lines?
No. This page follows JR Central (Tokaido and Sanyo). Other lines may differ.
Sources
Related tips
- Big suitcases on the Shinkansen: the 160 cm ruleBags up to 160 cm in total size need no reservation. Bags from 161 to 250 cm need a seat with an oversized baggage area, or you pay 1,000 yen. Over 250 cm is not allowed.
- Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shopsA Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
- How to ride a city bus in Japan: front door or rear door?It depends on the city. In central Tokyo you board at the front and pay first. In Kyoto and the Tokyo Tama area you board at the rear and pay when you get off.
- Hands-free travel in Japan: store or send your luggageHands-Free Travel lets you leave your bags at a counter or send them ahead, so you can sightsee without carrying them. Look for the official logo, and ask the counter about the details before you hand over your bags.
Last checked: 2026-10-30. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.