“Which side of the Shinkansen should I sit on to see Mt. Fuji?”

Book seat E! Let me explain how the seating works.

How Shinkansen Seats Work

“What do the letters mean?”

Shinkansen has 5 seats per row: A, B, C, D, E

• 3-seat side: A, B, C (A is window)
• 2-seat side: D, E (E is window)

For Mt. Fuji views, you want seat E (window seat on the 2-seat side).

Which Direction?

“Does it matter if I’m going to Osaka or Tokyo?”

Seat E works both ways!

• Tokyo → Osaka: E seat is on the right, facing Fuji
• Osaka → Tokyo: E seat is on the right, still facing Fuji

The train doesn’t turn around – the seats just rotate. So E is always the Fuji side on the Tokaido Shinkansen.

When to Look

“When will I see it?”

Look out the window around:

• Shin-Fuji Station area
• About 40-50 minutes from Tokyo
• About 1.5 hours from Shin-Osaka

The best view lasts only a few minutes, so pay attention!

Important Tips

“How do I get seat E?”

Book early! Window seats fill up fast.

• Reserve your seat when buying tickets
• Online booking lets you choose specific seats
• At the ticket counter, ask for “E-seki” (E seat)

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Know about seat E for Fuji views
• Book early for window seats
• Look up from their phones when passing Fuji
• Take quick photos through the window

Extra Travel Tips

1. Weather matters – Cloudy days = no Fuji view

2. Winter is best – Clearer skies, snow-capped Fuji

3. Morning is usually clearer – Afternoon can be hazy

4. Don’t blink – The best view is brief!

5. Unreserved cars – Harder to get window seats

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