Introduction of "Weak Air-Conditioning Cars" on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen: Exploring Japan's "Air-Conditioning Culture" and Comfort

■ Background of Introduction: Voices on "A Bit Cold" Inside the Shinkansen

Japan's Shinkansen is known as "the most punctual high-speed rail in the world," but there has been a consistent number of complaints about "overly strong air conditioning." Especially in summer, many passengers request blankets in the overly air-conditioned cars, and JR companies have received numerous complaints about it being "too cold."

■ What is a "Weak Air-Conditioning Car"? ── Difference in Set Temperature

A "weak air-conditioning car" is a car where the set temperature is slightly higher than usual, and the airflow of the air conditioning is reduced. In urban subways and Hokkaido railway cars, these have been introduced for decades as "cars for people who are sensitive to air conditioning." The initial introduction on the Sanyo and Tokaido Shinkansen marks an important cultural shift in the mainline railways of East and West Japan.

■ Target Trains: Limited to Car No. 3 of the "Hikari"

The trial introduction is limited to Car No. 3 of ten up and down Hikari trains. The choice of "Hikari" over "Nozomi" or "Kodama" is likely due to the relatively stable number of passengers. It will be clearly indicated in onboard displays and announcements that "this car has weak air conditioning."

■ Differences in Air Conditioning Culture with Overseas: Why is Japan Overcooling?

In Western countries, the air conditioning set temperature is higher than in Japan. For example, in public transportation in France and Germany, 25-26 degrees Celsius is standard. In contrast, the set temperature of Japan's Shinkansen is said to be 22-24 degrees Celsius, which can feel more "cold" than "cool." This difference is rooted in the cultural value in Japan that "service = comfort = coolness."

In the United States, excessive air conditioning in restaurants and offices is sometimes criticized, but in public transportation, natural ventilation or moderate air conditioning is more common.

■ "Weak Air-Conditioning Cars" from an Eco Perspective

Amid growing social issues of global warming and energy consumption, "weak air-conditioning cars" are also gaining attention from the perspective of energy reduction. The air conditioning of the Shinkansen is controlled per car, and raising the set temperature in even a few cars could potentially save electricity. This can be seen as a new initiative in the context of the SDGs.

■ Why "Weak Air-Conditioning Cars" Now? Exploring the Social Background

With the progression of an aging society, more people are experiencing negative health effects from "coldness." There is an increasing trend of elderly people and women suffering from ailments triggered by cold air, such as air conditioning sickness, back pain, and joint pain. In response, medical institutions and public facilities are also increasing signage that advises "caution with air conditioning strength."

As a service improvement that takes into account this social background, "weak air-conditioning cars" are gaining attention.

■ Future Developments: Will It Become Established or Expand Nationwide?

Depending on the results of this trial, there is a possibility of expansion to the Nozomi and other lines from 2026 onwards. Additionally, the option to "request a weak air-conditioning car" during online reservations may be added, promoting transportation use tailored to individual comfort.

Furthermore, expanded concepts such as "weak lighting cars" and "quiet cars" are also anticipated.

■ Tips for Foreigners: What to Know Before Boarding

• Check the "car number" when purchasing a reserved seat on the Shinkansen to see if Car No. 3 is a weak air-conditioning car

• For those sensitive to cold, bringing a blanket is a good idea

• Be mindful of the temperature difference between inside the train and outside, as summers in Japan are humid
  
  

Conclusion: Towards More Personalized Public Transportation ── The Evolution of the Shinkansen Continues

It becomes apparent that what seems like a trivial service, such as the strength of air conditioning, holds significant cultural and social importance. By allowing choices between "strong" and "weak" air conditioning, Japan's public transportation will become even more user-friendly.

The Shinkansen is not just a means of transportation but also a "space embodying Japanese hospitality." We hope this trial introduction will be a step forward in that direction.

Reference Article List

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