OSAKA –
A new top-tier “Supreme Class” offering fully private compartments above the level of Green Car service will debut on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen on October 1, with passengers able to experience the new seating at a demonstration booth at Shin-Osaka Station.
The booth showcases a fully enclosed compartment designed for up to two passengers and equipped with features surpassing those of existing Green Car seats.
Private compartments were first introduced on the Shinkansen in 1985 but were discontinued in 2003. Their return in October will mark the first such service in 23 years.
Passengers can use a provided tablet to adjust the seat to their preferred angle, while the compartment is designed to provide a private environment for resting or spending time during the journey.
One participant said, “The sofa was extremely comfortable, so if I could have this all to myself, I would really want to make the most of the time.”
Another said, “Privacy, above all. I think you can really take your time and relax.”
When used by a single passenger, a one-way Supreme Class trip between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka will cost 60,500 yen through the Express Reservation service.
About 12 Supreme Class services are scheduled to operate each day in both directions combined from October 1.
Tickets went on sale on September 15.
Source: MBS