Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train is one of my favorite ways in the world to travel. It offers lightning-fast, stress-free transportation from city center to city center, at a price commensurate with flying, but without any of the security theater or restrictions therein.
On the other hand, as you’ll know if you’ve read my post on it, I don’t think the country’s attempts to add luxury to this travel mode have been successful. Namely, the so-called “Green Car” has always underwhelmed me.
Now, I’ve taken this line of questioning to another level—literally. Is Shinkansen Gran Class worth it? Join me as I review the bullet train’s highest-end travel experience.
Why I Finally Tried Gran Class
Sampling Shinkansen Gran Class had been on my bucket list for a while, albeit not really for my own comfort or enjoyment. The reality is that the “normal” bullet train experience is just fine on most journeys, particularly if you’re able to sit on the side with just two seats; if you need more privacy or comfort, you can pay a bit more for the Green Car. Anything above and beyond this has always seemed unnecessary, and JR seems to agree: They only offer Gran Class on select trains.
At the same time, so many of my readers and private clients have asked me about Gran Class that I almost felt obligated to try it. And so when I decided that I would be taking the train from Tohoku to Kansai on a recent trip—I simply didn’t want to deal with a domestic flight at that point in my travels—I realized that the Morioka-Tokyo leg was the perfect opportunity to take one for the team and review Japan’s highest Shinkansen travel class.
5 Things to Know About Shinkansen Gran Class
The cabin and seats are impressive
Gran Class features a 1-2 configuration, which means a very high chance of total privacy, whether you’re a solo traveler on the left side of the car, or a couple on the right. Moreover, the seats are upholstered in a luxurious white leather than almost evokes the newer versions of Emirates’ premium cabins.
(The service, not so much)
I don’t consider Gran Class to be Shinkansen first class. One reason why? The service, while…existent (which can’t be said in the normal car, and is only via app in the Green Car) leaves a lot to be desired. Even in late 2025, my attendant was wearing a mask; she was timid and awkward in her interactions with me, in spite of the fact that I speak Japanese.
The food is…fine
JR makes a big deal out of the fact that a Gran Class ticket entitled you to a small bento, as well as a complimentary beverage (including sake or beer, if you choose). However, this doesn’t actually add much to the experience, apart from giving you something to do. If you’re really hungry, I recommend buying an ekiben in the station before departure.
It’s quiet and uncrowded
To an extent that’s maybe greater than airplanes these days, Shinkansen business class has minimal noise and very few other passengers. On my journey from Morioka to Tokyo, in fact, my only fellow passengers were a pair of fancy grannies who got on in Kitakami, of all places.
It isn’t that expensive
While business or first class on a long-haul flight can cost 5-10x the cost of economy, the same is not true for Gran Class. While it’s a bit more expensive than the Green Car (which costs about 30-50% more than an ordinary ticket), Gran Class typically costs around twice the price of a normal reserved seat. It’s not cheap, but it isn’t exorbitant.
Is Shinkansen Gran Class better than the Green Car?
From a simple seating perspective, Gran Class is of course better than the Green Car. It’s arranged 1-2 as opposed to 2-2, which means that you have approximately 33% more room, to save nothing of how much better padded and upholstered the seats are. Your Gran Class ticket includes a bento (albeit a very humble one) and unlimited drinks within reason, which can be valuable if you want to be doted over.
If we ask it another way—is Shinkansen first class worth it?—we have to make another asterisk. Namely, that while Gran Class is as luxurious as you’re going to get on a Japanese bullet train, it isn’t really “first class.” As a result (and as is the case with the Green Car), determining whether an upgrade to Gran Class is worth the money really depends on your expectations going into it. If you’re expecting caviar and/or champagne, you are almost certain to be disappointed.
Other FAQ About the Shinkansen’s Gran Class
Is Gran Class worth it on the Shinkansen?
Gran Class is worth it if you have a practical reason for needing more space or more attentive service, or if money simply isn’t an object to you as you explore Japan. However, if you’re expecting an extremely luxurious experience commensurate with first or business class on an airplane, I imagine that you won’t find Gran Class to be worthwhile.
What is the difference between Green and Gran Class Shinkansen?
The primary differences between then Green Car and Gran Class are as follows: Seating is 2-2 vs. 1-2; the former does not include a meal while the latter does; the former allows you to order paid beverages via a QR code, while attendants on the latter will ask you what you want and bring you any beverage on the menu free of charge, and on-demand.
Is Gran Class available from Tokyo to Kyoto?
The Gran Class isn’t available onboard the Tokaido Shinkansen that runs between Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya, Hiroshima and Fukuoka. Instead, if you want to travel in Gran Class, you’ll need to take the Tohoku-Hokkaido Shinkansen (which runs to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto), the Hokuriku Shinkansen (which goes to Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa and Fukui) or the Joetsu Shinkansen that connects Tokyo with Niigata.
The Bottom Line
Is Shinkansen Gran Class worth it? Well, there are a couple of ways to look at this. On one hand, the cost differential on many routes isn’t that significant. If only for the enhanced quiet and privacy, spending an extra ichiman en (or two, or three) might not be a bad investment, particularly if you’re not someone for whom price is generally a top concern. On the other hand, if you’re expecting something commensurate with ANA or JAL business class, then you will probably walk onto the train (and certainly, walk off it) disappointed. Want more of my expert insights as you prepare to visit Japan? Consider commissioning a custom Japan itinerary today!
