Rail travel articles

Japan train seat classes explained

Understand ordinary, Green Car, GranClass and unreserved options when offered.

Ordinary reserved seats

A practical choice for most journeys, with a seat assigned during ticketing.

Premium classes can provide more space, but the exact inclusions depend on the train.

Where offered, an unreserved ticket does not guarantee a particular seat.

Check the relevant operator for current travel rules. Your issued ticket determines boarding, changes and refunds.