Is the Shinkansen “Gran Class” Worth It? A Local Expert’s Guide to Japan’s Bullet Train First Class

Most travelers know the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) is fast and punctual. But did you know there is a secret cabin beyond the “Green Car”?

It is called “Gran Class.” Often described as the “First Class of the Shinkansen,” it offers an experience comparable to international airlines. However, as someone who has circumnavigated Japan three times and ridden Gran Class personally, I must tell you: it is not available on every route, and there are “traps” you need to avoid.

Here is my honest review and logical guide to mastering the Gran Class.

1. The Hidden Oasis at Tokyo Station

Before you even step on the train, the “Gran Class” experience begins. But only if you know where to go.

Tokyo Station is famous for being a crowded labyrinth. Finding a place to sit is nearly impossible. However, Gran Class passengers have access to the “View Gold Lounge.”

• Location: 1st Floor, Yaesu Central Exit (right near the Shinkansen gates).
• The Experience: A quiet, carpeted sanctuary away from the chaos. You can enjoy complimentary soft drinks, coffee, and Japanese confectionery while waiting for your train.
• The Crucial Warning: You can ONLY enter this lounge if you have a “Gran Class (With Attendant)” ticket departing from Tokyo. If you bought the “Seat Only” ticket, you will be politely refused at the door. Do not make this mistake!

2. What Makes It Special? (The “Shell” Sanctuary)

Unlike the crowded Ordinary cars, Gran Class is a sanctuary. The cabin is separated from the rest of the train by multiple heavy doors. Once you step inside, the noise disappears.

• The “Shell” Seat: The biggest benefit. The seat is encased in a hard shell. This means even if you recline fully, the seat slides forward inside the shell. You never have to worry about annoying the passenger behind you.
• Privacy: With only 18 seats (3 seats per row), it is usually empty and quiet.
• Exclusive Amenities: You are provided with slippers and eye masks. Pro Tip: You can take these home as souvenirs.

Note: The ride is usually 4 hours max. The seats recline to about 45 degrees. They are incredibly comfortable, but do not expect a “Full-Flat” bed like an airline sleeper.

3. The “Trap”: Two Types of Gran Class

This is where most tourists get confused. There are two service categories, even if the seat is the same.

1. With Attendant (The Full Experience):
   • Includes a light Japanese meal (bento).
   • Free-flow drinks: You can enjoy Japanese Sake, wine, beer, and soft drinks as much as you like.
   • Personal attendant service.
2. Seat Only (No Attendant):
   • No food, no drinks, no staff. Just the seat.
   • Warning: If you book this expecting a meal, you will be hungry.

4. The “Golden Route” Mistake

Many travelers want to book Gran Class for the popular Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka route. Unfortunately, you cannot.

Gran Class is ONLY available on these lines (operated by JR East/West/Hokkaido):

• 🚄 Tohoku Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Aomori)
• 🚄 Hokkaido Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Hakodate)
• 🚄 Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Kanazawa/Tsuruga)
• 🚄 Joetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Niigata)

The Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka – Hiroshima – Hakata) does NOT have Gran Class. The highest class there is the “Green Car.” (Note: Some Kyushu Shinkansen trains don’t even have Green Cars.)

4. The Cost of Luxury 

Let’s talk about money. Gran Class is not cheap, but understanding how the price works will save you from confusion.

The Price Structure: A Shinkansen ticket consists of three parts: [Base Fare] + [Express Fee] + [Gran Class Surcharge]

Approximate Total Cost (One-Way from Tokyo):

Destination	Total Price (Approx.)	Surcharge Part Only
Kanazawa	~¥33,000 ($210)	¥17,990
Aomori	~¥32,000 ($205)	¥13,600
Hakodate	~¥45,000 ($280)	¥20,400

(Note: Prices vary slightly by season and exact date.)

Is it worth the extra cost? Compared to the “Green Car,” Gran Class costs about ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 ($70 – $100) more.

• If you value the all-you-can-drink alcohol and the private lounge access at Tokyo Station, this difference is a bargain.
• If you only want a comfortable seat, look for the “Beverage/Light Meal NOT included” tickets. These are significantly cheaper because their prices did not increase in the 2025 revision.

5. Taro’s Insider Secrets (Smart Booking Logic)

Here are three facts that even Japanese locals rarely know:

Secret #1: The “Company Border” Price Hike Japan’s railways are divided by region. If your ride crosses a border between companies (e.g., JR East to JR West), the Gran Class surcharge is calculated twice, making it expensive.

• Example: Crossing “Joetsu-Myoko” (Hokuriku line) or “Shin-Aomori” (Hokkaido line).
• Advice: Check the price carefully. Sometimes the Green Car is a smarter financial choice for these specific border-crossing routes.

Secret #2: Last-Minute Upgrades Did you buy a regular ticket but changed your mind? If there are empty seats (which is common), you can ask the conductor to upgrade you on board. You just pay the difference in cash. Try saying “Gurankurasu ni henko shite kudasai” to the attendant. This indicates “Please upgrade me to Gran Class,” and they will gladly accommodate you.

Secret #3: The Alcohol Experience If you choose the “Attendant” service, try the Japanese wine. It is exclusively curated for Gran Class and pairs beautifully with the passing scenery of the Japanese countryside.

Conclusion: Should You Book It?

If you are traveling to Kanazawa (Hokuriku) or Aomori/Hokkaido, I absolutely recommend it. The quiet luxury and Japanese hospitality set the tone for a perfect trip.

However, booking the correct train and getting the best seat requires local knowledge.

Want to know the exact train number that offers the best daylight views from a Gran Class seat? Or need help planning a route that avoids the crowded Tokaido line?

[Join our Membership for Free] and ask me about Gran Class.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gran Class