An event showcasing Supreme Class, the highest-tier seating option being introduced on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen high-speed rail lines connecting Tokyo with western Japan, was held at JR Tokyo Station on September 1.
Supreme Class will offer two types of seating: “Cabinn,” private compartments for one or two passengers, with the two-person compartments featuring sofas; and “Seat,” semi-private compartments for up to two passengers that are scheduled to be introduced in fiscal 2027.
It will be the first time in about 23 years that private compartments have been available on the Tokaido Shinkansen, following the retirement of the 100 Series in 2003.
A participant receives an explanation from a staff member at the event.
The private compartments can be locked using a transit card or QR code.
Wider Seats, Greater Adjustability
Supreme Class seats feature reclining backrests and leg rests, as well as built-in speakers and seat heaters. Passengers can adjust the settings using an onboard tablet.
The seats recline up to 130 degrees, seven degrees farther than current Green Car seats, and are 50 centimeters wide, making them 2 centimeters wider. Passengers will also receive complimentary drinks and snacks as a welcome service.
Passengers can adjust the seat’s reclining angle and other settings using a tablet.
Participants experienced both types of seating and tried out the onboard monitors. One woman from Saitama Prefecture said, “Being able to travel in a private space is very appealing. I’d like to take my elderly parents on it.”
The exhibition at Tokyo Station will run through September 13.
(Read the article in Japanese.)
Author: Takumi Kamoshida, The Sankei Shimbun
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