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    How to reserve shinkansen seats online with a JR Pass

    Reservations for shinkansen seats are free with a JR Pass and can be done online before you leave home or while in Japan.

    01

    Which sites work with the JR Pass

    • JR East Train Reservation for Tohoku, Hokkaido, Joetsu and Hokuriku shinkansen.
    • Smart EX for Tokaido and Sanyo shinkansen, links to your JR Pass.
    • JR West Online Train Reservation for Hokuriku from Kansai and Sanyo from Kyushu.
    02

    When reservations open

    Reservations open one month before the date of travel at 10:00 Japan time. Popular trains like cherry blossom season Hikari and Sakura sell out fast.

    03

    How to reserve, step by step

    • Create a free account on the chosen JR site.
    • Add your JR Pass number on the dedicated page.
    • Search the route, choose a Hikari, Sakura or Kodama train, then pick your seat from the map.
    • Confirm the booking. No payment is taken with a JR Pass.
    • Collect the printed seat tickets at any JR ticket machine or office in Japan.
    04

    Tips

    • Always pick the green Hikari, Sakura, Kodama or Hakutaka trains to avoid the Nozomi and Mizuho supplement.
    • If you have a large suitcase, reserve the oversized luggage seat for free.
    • Cancel free of charge up to a few minutes before departure.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Can I reserve shinkansen seats before arriving in Japan?

    Yes. The JR East, JR West and Smart EX sites all accept reservations from abroad once you have your JR Pass details.

    Is there a fee for seat reservations?

    No. Reservations are free with a JR Pass on any covered train.

    What if my plans change?

    Cancel or modify online before the train departs. Free with a JR Pass.

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