Where can I check an available seat on Shinkansen?

Hi there!

This is a difficult one. Still I think that you will be fine since trains are only getting really busy after the 28th.

This website allows you to see available seats, unfortunately it is only in Japanese and works only between 6.30 - 22:30 Japanese time. Right now it is in the middle of the night there. If it would give any ease of mind, I could look up the route at a later time and tell you about the available seats.

Something else that may give you a little peace is that all trains have reserved and non-reserved seats. If all reserved seats are booked you can still line up on the platform before departure and go for a non-reserved seat. The downside is that you would have to be at the platform a good amount of time in advance. Lastly if seats are full you can still stand - I know this is far from ideal but at least you can be on the train if you have to.

I hope this helps!
Daniel