Japan’s Shinkansen Bullet Train Now Has Private Suites. Here’s How It Compares to Flying First Class.

The famous Japanese bullet train has just received an upgrade.

A new cabin, called Supreme Class, with private suites has been introduced on some of Japan’s high-speed rail network. It’s the single most significant change to Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train in decades.

Let’s take a look at the details and how the Shinkansen’s private suites compare to flying domestic first class.

The Shinkansen’s New Private Suites

The Supreme Class entered service on October 1 and is available to book on select trains operating on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines. The trains connect Tokyo with major business and tourism hubs like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The final stop is Hakata, Fukuoka, on the southern island of Kyushu.

Passengers can book either a single-occupancy or double suite, depending on their needs and availability.

‹›

1 of 2

The Shinkansen's new Supreme Class. Screenshot: JR Rail YouTube

JR Rail highlights features such as automated floor-to-ceiling privacy doors that can be locked, a generous recline, and ample space for working and storage.

‹›

1 of 3

Passengers with IC Cards can tap to open. Screenshot: JR Rail YouTube

A welcome drink and sweet treat are also included in the ticket. Supreme Class passengers also have the option of paying for additional food and drink items from an exclusive menu.

It’s interesting that JR Rail chose to charge for food and drink, when passengers in many other first class train cabins, especially in Europe, enjoy complimentary meals and even alcoholic drinks.

Even so, these private suites are a huge jump in luxury from Green Car, which was previously the most premium cabin.

Flying First Class vs. Shinkansen’s Private Suite

A seat in a private Shinkansen suite doesn’t come cheap.

It’s also worth noting that complimentary meals and alcoholic beverages are included when flying domestic first class with ANA or JAL.

When taking that into consideration, plus the fact that the train takes twice as long, the idea of spending possibly twice as much money on a Supreme Class ticket is likely to become less compelling for most.

There’s currently no way to redeem points directly for rail travel in Japan. However, it’s possible to book the tickets and then redeem points against the purchase after the fact, offsetting the charge by using points like cash.

Final Thoughts

The Shinkansen’s new Supreme Class is the most private and exclusive way to travel around Japan by train. However, the lack of complimentary dining service might put people off spending the extra cash.