Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai), operator of the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet trains, will introduce private compartment seats starting October 1. The plan was revealed by President Shunsuke Niwa in a recent interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun. These compartments aim to offer a premium space with secured privacy and services surpassing those in the Green Car.
JR Tokai, which has focused on improving the capacity of its Shinkansen trains, will revive private compartment seats abolished in 2003. Currently, only Green and Ordinary seats are available, but the company aims to meet the needs of a variety of passengers. President Niwa explained that the new compartments will provide a "premium space, in which their privacy is secured," along with services that surpass those in the Green Car. Prices have not yet been disclosed.
The introduction ties into promoting the 20th Asian Games and 5th Asian Para Games, scheduled for Nagoya and surrounding areas this autumn. From around June, JR Tokai plans to operate specially designed trains on the Tokaido Line, and station attendants will wear pins featuring the events' emblems. "We will fulfill our responsibilities as a transportation provider" for the athletes and officials, Niwa said.
This move reflects JR Tokai's shift toward catering to diverse traveler preferences while supporting major regional events. With Nagoya as a key hub, the enhancements are poised to enhance the overall experience for visitors and participants alike.