When purchasing a reserved seat on the Shinkansen (bullet train), if you can choose any seat, which one is the best to select?
I think many people already have their own opinions on this matter, without me even having to consider it.
However, I'd like to share my own thoughts here.
If this is something you've never even considered before, I hope you'll find it interesting.
Front and rear of the vehicle
First, regarding the front and rear of the vehicle, there are three main types.
There are three options: the very front of the vehicle, the very back, and the rest of the vehicle.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
One advantage of the front row seats is that the desks are larger.
It's not the flimsy platform attached to the seat in front, but a sturdy platform attached to the wall.
This has advantages for people who use a desk extensively, such as those using laptops.
However, a disadvantage is that you cannot fully stretch your legs because the front is a wall.
Next, the advantage of the seats at the very back is that you can recline them freely.
Since there are no seats behind, you don't have to worry about anyone else no matter how much you recline your seat.
I consider this a huge advantage, so I try to choose the very back seat whenever possible.
Additionally, there's space behind the seats to place large luggage, making it a great option for those with a lot of bags.
However, both the front and back seats are close to the doors.If there are toilets or other restrooms, the sound of doors opening and closing may be a concern.
Those planning to sleep in should be careful.
As for the other seats, I don't see any particular advantage to them.
Window seat or aisle seat?
I think this depends on the person,
If you are likely to need to leave your seat to use the restroom or for other reasons, we recommend choosing an aisle seat.
Naturally, because it's adjacent to the aisle, you don't have to worry about anyone when you get up from your seat.
Conversely, those who want to sleep in should choose a window seat.
Since you don't have to get up for anyone else, you can relax.
However, when you get up from your seat, you'll need to pass in front of the person next to you, so those who are considerate of others should be careful.
Should we have three seats in a row or two seats in a row?
This is a difficult question to answer.
However, one thing is certain: there is absolutely no advantage to choosing the middle seat in a row of three.
There are no advantages to either the window seat or the aisle seat; in fact, there are only disadvantages.
It's the worst seating location because, while window-seat passengers might cross your path, you also have to cross in front of aisle-seat passengers when you get up.
Also, if you're in a window seat of a three-seat row, it's extremely difficult to get to the aisle.
Therefore, it is generally recommended to choose seats in pairs rather than seats in groups of three.
summary
If we were to arrange them by purpose, they would be as follows:
I want to work on my tasks carefully using a laptop or similar device.
I recommend the window seat in the front row of the train.
If you're not sitting by the window, you might have to move your laptop out of the way if it's on a stand.
(For example, when a window-seat passenger needs to get out into the aisle)
I want to rest.
I recommend the window seat in the last row of the train.
You can stretch your legs and recline your seat comfortably.
However, those who are bothered by the sound of doors opening and closing should be aware of this.
- I often need to get up from my seat to go to the restroom or make a phone call.
I recommend the aisle seat in the last row.
You can stretch your legs and take a break, and you can get up from your seat without worrying about other people.
However, when the person sitting by the window gets up, you have to move.
Let's be careful about that.