How JR Pass Holders Can Reserve Shinkansen Seats Online: Step-by-Step Guide

For related family travel advice, see: Complete Guide to Traveling Japan by Train With Kids.

More information about JR Pass: JR Pass - Unlimited Japan Rail Travel

1. Understand What JR Pass Seat Reservations Offer

• Reserved seats are free for JR Pass holders: You do not pay extra for a reserved seat if you have a valid pass.

• Guaranteed seating: Especially important for families traveling together.

• Flexibility: You can book seats in advance to ensure specific train times.

Insider tip: If traveling during peak seasons, always reserve in advance to avoid standing in unreserved cars.

2. Register for the JR East Online Reservation System

1. Visit the official JR East website: JR East Online Reservation

2. Create an account with your email address.

3. Enter your JR Pass number and validity dates.

Pro tip: JR Pass holders must have a physical JR Pass voucher or an activated JR Pass to complete online reservations.

3. How to Search for Shinkansen Trains

1. Choose your departure and arrival stations.

2. Select the date and preferred departure time.

3. Choose reserved seating for JR Pass holders.

4. Specify number of passengers and whether children are under 6.

Insider tip: When traveling with children, select “family seats” if available, or ensure adults and children are in the same reserved car.

4. Select Your Seat Type

• Ordinary Reserved Seats: Standard comfort for most travelers.

• Green Car Reserved Seats: Extra space and comfort; useful for families or long trips.

• Gran Class: Luxury option, rarely needed for short trips.

Pro tip: Families often choose window seats for stroller or luggage placement near the aisle.

5. Complete Your Reservation

1. Confirm train, seat type, and passenger details.

2. Review your reservation summary.

3. Receive a reservation number and confirmation email.

Important: You will need to show your physical JR Pass at the station to pick up your reserved seat ticket.

6. Picking Up Your Reserved Seat Ticket

• Go to any JR ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi) at the station.

• Show your JR Pass and reservation confirmation.

• Receive your Shinkansen reserved seat ticket.

Insider tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes before departure to handle any last-minute changes or luggage adjustments.

7. Tips for Families and Luggage

• Reserve seats in cars near the train ends, which often have larger luggage racks.

• For strollers or large luggage, consider folding items or using luggage delivery services (Takuhaibin).

• Families should book together to ensure seats are next to each other.

8. Additional Notes

• Some Shinkansen lines may not be fully available for online reservation; check the official JR website.

• Online reservations can be canceled or changed at JR ticket offices if plans change.

• Always carry your JR Pass and passport when picking up reserved seat tickets.

Final Advice

Reserving Shinkansen seats online as a JR Pass holder is simple once you understand the process. Advance planning ensures stress-free travel, especially for families or those with luggage. Pair this with seat reservations and stroller planning guides for a smooth journey through Japan.

For more on family seating and planning, see: Japan Train Seat Reservations for Families: Do You Really Need Them?.