JR East announces 50% Shinkansen discount for select routes

JR East and JR Hokkaido have announced a limited-time discount product called ‘Tokudane Special 28’. This web-exclusive offer, available through the ‘Ekinet’ reservation service, provides a 50% discount on Shinkansen fares and limited express tickets.

Key routes include Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, where prices drop from 24,000 yen to 11,990 yen, and Tokyo to Sendai, which reduces from 11,110 yen to 5,550 yen. The discount applies to various Shinkansen lines, including Tohoku, Hokkaido, Joetsu, Hokuriku, Akita, and Yamagata.

Usage is subject to strict conditions: bookings must be made at least 28 days in advance, and the discount is only valid for travel on specific weekdays during October and December 2026. Weekends and public holidays are excluded. The offer is limited to reserved seats in ordinary cars.