Important Notice!
During certain periods that are expected to experience a significant increase in passenger demand (high and peak travel seasons), all seats on Nozomi trains operating on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines will be available as reserved seats only.
Reserved Seat Only Periods
On May 21, 2026, JR Central and JR West, the operators of the Nozomi Shinkansen, officially announced the designated periods during which all Nozomi seats will require advance reservations.
August 2026
August 7–16, 2026 (Obon Holiday)
September 2026
September 18–23, 2026 (Silver Week Holiday)
October 2026
October 10–12, 2026 (Sports Day / Supōtsu no Hi)
November 2026
November 21–23, 2026 (Labour Thanksgiving Day / Kinrō Kansha no Hi)
December 2026 – January 2027
December 25, 2026 – January 5, 2027 (Japanese New Year Holiday / Shōgatsu)
January 2027
January 9–11, 2027 (Coming of Age Day / Seijin no Hi)
March 2027
March 20–22, 2027 (Vernal Equinox Day / Shunbun no Hi)
During the periods listed above, Nozomi Shinkansen will not offer any non-reserved seating, meaning all passengers must reserve a seat in advance before boarding.
If you usually purchase tickets on the day of travel without making a reservation, it is strongly recommended to book your seat early to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
