Platt Kodama
When traveling from Tokyo to Nagoya, Kyoto, or Osaka, the Shinkansen is usually the fastest and most comfortable way to travel within Japan. The only drawback is the high price, especially if you want to sit in the Green Car (the JR train’s first class).
Here’s a little travel trick that many travelers don’t know about: the “Platt Kodama Ticket.” This ticket allows you to ride in the Green Car for less than a regular ticket and even includes a drink. However, there’s one drawback: as the name suggests, you can only ride the Kodama train.
What is the Platt Kodama?
The Tokaido Shinkansen consists of three types of trains: Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama. The Kodama is the slowest and stops at every station. The “Platt Kodama Ticket” is valid only on Kodama trains, making it a better value.
The journey from Tokyo to Nagoya takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by Kodama train and approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by Nozomi train. Kodama takes about an hour longer, but this special ticket offer a reasonable pricing for the quieter and more spacious experience on the Green Car.
You can watch more details on the experience and how to make reservation on the video. The reservation part starts after 10:00 minutes of the video.
Ride Experience
Green Cars feature spacious seats, ample legroom, subdued lighting, and an overall quieter atmosphere. They also feature heated seats, power outlets, large tables, and side tables for drinks.
Because Kodama trains stop at every station, they are often overtaken by express trains. During my trip, I was overtaken by 13 Shinkansen trains between Tokyo and Nagoya. Even if you’re not a train enthusiast, the sight of the 16-car Nozomi train hurtling along is a thrilling sight.
Even Kodama trains have a maximum inter-station speed of 254 km/h. By “slow,” I mean waiting times at stations.
Please note that there are several important conditions to take advantage of this discount ticket.
This ticket is only sold between Tokyo and major stations such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya.
- Train schedule changes are not permitted.
- Intermediate stops are not permitted. For example, if you purchase a ticket to Shin-Osaka, you cannot get off in Kyoto.
- If you miss your train, you will not be able to board the next train.
- Reservations must be made by 11:30 PM (Japan Time) the day before.
Please arrive at the station early.
This ticket is ideal for travelers with a fixed schedule. If your schedule is subject to change, we recommend checking seat availability the day before and booking once your plans are confirmed. Reservations for the next day will not be accepted after 11:30 PM.
How to Reservation
You can reserve the Platt Kodama through the EX reservation website.
Create an EX account, register your credit card, and select “Shinkansen Travel Pack.”
Select “Platt Kodama,” then choose your route, Green Car, and seat.
If you would like a seat facing Mt. Fuji, please select seat D. Seat D is recommended if you want to see many Shinkansen trains passing by. If you would like a seat facing the ocean, please select seat A. The ocean side also offers beautiful views, but the sunlight can be strong on sunny mornings.
If you are carrying large luggage (with the total dimensions exceeding 160cm), please select an “oversized luggage seat.” You can select a seat with luggage space behind the seat.
This ticket comes with a voucher that can be exchanged for one drink worth up to 320 yen. Please note that the total amount is not 320 yen, and this is only for one drink. You can exchange the voucher before boarding, or if you are short on time, you can exchange it after arrival. Please be careful not to miss your train.
Drinks and snacks are not sold on Kodama trains, even in Green Cars. Please purchase drinks and snacks in advance at your boarding station. (Currently, you can purchase drinks and snacks using your smartphone in the Green Cars of Nozomi and Hikari trains, but not in Regular Cars.)
So, is it worth buying?
I like the Plat Kodama. If you consider the train itself to be part of the journey, love trains, and want a comfortable, spacious, and quiet ride at a low price, it’s worth buying.
If you’re on a tight schedule or value flexibility, you probably shouldn’t buy it. It’s also not recommended for people who find being overtaken by a following train stressful.
For many travelers, the Plat Kodama is a great way to experience the Green Car without paying the regular fare. It takes longer, but it’s more relaxing and enjoyable. Why not take the time to plan your trip while you’re on board?
