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2 clusters · 4 sources · 6 days · First seen · Last updated

JR West rail service and premium seating expansions

Overview

JR West has announced several service expansions and upgrades to its rail network. In response to a 7% rise in passenger usage, the company will increase Hokuriku Shinkansen services by 26.6% for the autumn season, adding 985 extra trains between October 1 and November 30. This includes increasing train lengths on weekends and returning the ‘Hanayome no Noren’ sightseeing train to two daily round trips to support regional tourism.

Additionally, JR West and JR Central are expanding premium seating options. Starting October 3, 2026, JR West will expand its ‘Ureshi-to’ paid seating service to all time slots on several lines, including the Biwako, JR Kyoto, and Osaka Loop Lines.

Furthermore, a new ‘Supreme Class’ tier will launch on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen corridors on October 1, 2026. Positioned above the Green Car, this service will introduce lockable private cabins featuring single or two-seat configurations, electronic-lock doors, reclining seats, 5G-capable Wi-Fi, and specialized audio technology.

Entities

JR West · Hokuriku Shinkansen · JR Kyushu · Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen · Tokaido Shinkansen

Timeline

  1. 2 days ago

    [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    JR West and JR Central announce major premium rail service expansions

    JR West and JR Central are expanding premium rail services, including the all-day expansion of Ureshi-to seating and the October 2026 launch of Supreme Class private cabins on the Shinkansen.

  2. 7 days ago

    [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    JR West to increase Hokuriku Shinkansen services by 26% this autumn

    JR West will increase Hokuriku Shinkansen temporary services by over 26% this autumn to meet rising passenger demand and support regional tourism recovery.

Sources

fnn.jp · hokkoku.co.jp · saitoshika-west.com · travelweekly.com.au