Private bullet train compartments making a comeback

Apr 18 (NHK) - Bullet train riders in central Japan can look forward to a new level of luxury when Central Japan Railway brings back private compartments in April 2026.

The operator says the compartments will return to its Shinkansen cars more than two decades after they were abolished. Each will provide a private area for up to two passengers.

The new sections will have reclining seats and dedicated Wi-Fi, as well as systems to control lighting and the volume of train announcements.

The company hopes to appeal to people who want privacy or peace and quiet for online meetings.

Details, such as cost and service areas, will be announced later.


MORE Travel NEWS

During the Golden Week holiday, Kyoto faced heavy crowds as foreign tourists, buoyed by a weak yen, combined with domestic travelers, leading to overcrowding. At popular spots, trash was scattered, highlighting the major issue of overtourism.

Tokyo DisneySea's largest development since its opening, the new "Fantasy Springs" area, was unveiled to the press ahead of its opening next month.

In the ancient city of Kamakura, an experimental initiative promoting walking to address over-tourism issues and potentially unveil new charms took place. Local residents express hopes that this experiment will not only alleviate congestion but also lead to the discovery of fresh attractions.

POPULAR NEWS

Nintendo revealed on May 7 that it plans to announce a new gaming console, the successor to the Nintendo Switch, within this fiscal year.

At the bustling Tsukiji Market in Tokyo, which attracts tourists from around the world daily, a Brazilian tourist captured an unexpected moment in a video he was livestreaming.

The United States is moving towards easing cannabis regulations, while Japan maintains strict controls. How should Japan approach cannabis in the future?

Tokyo DisneySea's largest development since its opening, the new "Fantasy Springs" area, was unveiled to the press ahead of its opening next month.

To keep pace with the intense international competition in space development, the Japanese government has launched the necessary Space Strategy Fund to accelerate Japan's space exploration activities.

FOLLOW US