The Green Car service, available on selected JR lines including the shinkansen (bullet train) as well as Tokaido and Yokosuka lines in Tokyo, offers a more relaxed alternative to crowded trains, especially during rush hour.
While it requires an extra fee (typically 30% to 50% higher than ordinary tickets), the comfort is worth it. In some cases, you can even save money by riding the Green Car. For example, if you take the Green Car from Hodogaya to Narita International Airport, that’s a more cost-effective option than taking the higher-priced Narita Express.
So, how do you purchase a Green Car ticket?
If you’re using physical tickets, you will first need to buy the standard one, and then, follow the English guidance on the ticket machine to get your Green Car ticket. An attendant will check your tickets once on board so make sure not to lose it.
If you’re using a prepaid rechargeable IC card like SUICA or PASMO, you will just need to insert it in the ticket machine and then directly purchase the Green Car ticket to be added on the card. When you pass through the ticket gates, the standard fee will automatically be subtracted from your IC card balance. Once you’ve chosen your Green Car seats on board, tap your IC card on the SUICA sticker above you, and the light will turn green. That’s how the attendants will know that you’ve appropriately paid for your ticket.
Remember to purchase your Green Car ticket before boarding, as it’s more expensive to buy it on the train.
Learn more about purchasing Japanese train tickets: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/ticket/guide.html