Question about train fares

Hi there,

I guess you find these prices in Hyperdia? Here you should always look at the total. This consists of the Fare and the Seat fee. You will always pay both these on limited express trains and shinkansen.

Local trains don't have a seat fee.

Then there is a fee for reserving a seat, this is optional and usually costs between 200-800yen.

Hope this helps,
Daniel

Thank you Daniel, very helpful. Yes I saw it in Hyperdia. So on top of fare and seat fee is there also a fee for reserving a seat? Since you are expert, can you tell if the purchase of a ticket for a train with seat fee must be done in advance or if it is possible just before the departure of the train? Much appreciated your help.

The general advise I can give you here is: A non reserved seat is fine if you get on the train from the first station but seat reservations are almost needed if you do so at a later served station.

Ok thank you. But is it possible for trains that require a seat fee to buy the ticket very shortly to the train departure? Let's say that the train from Shinjuku to Nikko leaves at 7,30; can I buy the ticket with reserved seat fee just before departure (i.e. half an hour before leaving?). Probably the anser is depending on avaiability...? Thank you

Generally its no problem to buy tickets, though in the weekend and holidays it is better to buy tickets 1-2 days in advance.

Thank you Daniel-san, I can't wait to be there (1 month to go.... )! :)