Originally Posted by nexusCFX

I stopped getting the pass a while back. Discounted advance fares via smartEX app represent really good value for travel in the green car, and you can use nozomi and pick your seats. Seat selection with the rail pass is only a recent addition and you had to buy the more expensive one direct from JR, which would add up if getting passes for a family.

With this increase I cannot see how these will present good value to most tourists. The average tourist to Japan just goes to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and maybe some surrounding cities. You can pay less and ride in the green car on the fastest service just buying tickets as needed.