Benefits of Riding the Shinkansen Green Car: What Services Are Included?

The Green Car on the Shinkansen is more expensive than non-reserved and reserved standard seats.

However, it offers wider seats, a quieter cabin, and a level of comfort that often exceeds expectations. It’s a great option for travelers who want to relax and enjoy a more spacious ride on a long journey.

This page introduces the benefits of riding the Shinkansen Green Car.

Benefits of the Shinkansen Green Car

You can ride the Green Car on various Shinkansen lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama), the Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, Hikari, Kodama, Tsubame), and the Hokuriku Shinkansen (Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Tsurugi).

On some routes, there is also a higher class called “Gran Class,” which offers an even more luxurious experience than the Green Car.

Green Car tickets are more expensive than non-reserved or reserved standard seats.

For example, on the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka, the fares are as follows:

Compared to a reserved seat, the Green Car costs about ¥5,000 more.

However, it offers exclusive benefits and a more comfortable ride.

This page introduces the advantages of the Green Car, using the Tokaido Shinkansen as an example.

I’ve personally used it several times as well.

Spacious Seats

In the standard cars of the Shinkansen (non-reserved and reserved seats), the seating layout is typically 2 seats on one side and 3 on the other, with relatively narrow seats and aisles.

In contrast, the Green Car features a 2-by-2 seating layout, offering significantly more space and comfort.

The flooring is carpeted, creating a refined and premium atmosphere.

The seats are ergonomically designed, high-performance reclining chairs with excellent cushioning, providing a relaxed and comfortable experience.

They are wide enough to sleep in, and the generous legroom between rows means you don’t have to worry about disturbing others.

The reclining angle can be easily adjusted using a lever.

There’s plenty of space around your feet, allowing you to stretch out comfortably. A footrest is also provided.

If the surface matches the carpet color, you can use it with your shoes on. If it matches the seat color, please remove your shoes before using.

There’s also a leg warmer near your feet, which you can turn on or off with a button when you feel cold.

Well-Equipped Seating

Green Car seats come with amenities designed for a comfortable ride. First, you’ll find a power outlet located near the armrest.

Every seat has its own outlet, so there’s no need to compete with your neighbor. You can charge your smartphone or work on your laptop with ease.

A large table is installed in front of each seat, making it convenient for meals or laptop use.

There’s also a fold-out table stored in the armrest, perfect for placing drinks or small items.

Each seat is equipped with a built-in reading light, allowing you to adjust brightness as needed.

A rounded handrail is attached to aisle-side seats, making it easier to move through the cabin.

You can store your luggage on the overhead rack above your seat.

For large items like suitcases, there is a dedicated oversized luggage space at the rear of the car. Please note that this space requires a reservation.

Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere

Because the Green Car is more expensive, it tends to be less crowded.

It’s often used by business travelers and passengers seeking a calm environment, making it very quiet.

Families with children and student groups rarely use the Green Car, so it doesn’t feel noisy or lively.

Whether you want to sleep or concentrate on work during your ride, the Green Car offers a clear advantage.

Close to Station Escalators and Stairs

On the 16-car Tokaido Shinkansen trains, the Green Cars are located in Cars 8 through 10.

These cars stop near the center of the platform at every station, making them conveniently close to escalators and stairs.

If you’ve ever taken a non-reserved seat, you may know that those cars—such as Cars 1 to 3—are located toward the front, often far from the stairs.

Easy to Reserve

The Green Car is often less crowded, making it easier to secure a reservation.

You can also choose your seat in advance, so there’s less chance of having a stranger seated next to you.

Even if someone does sit beside you, the seats are spacious enough that it’s hardly noticeable.

Drawbacks

The main drawback of the Shinkansen Green Car is its higher cost.

Unlike airplanes, it doesn’t offer in-seat meal or drink service.

Simply put, the main advantage is the wider seat. It comes down to whether you’re willing to pay for extra comfort.

If you don’t mind the standard seats or the ambient noise in non-reserved and reserved cars, there may not be much benefit in spending more for the Green Car.

Summary

The Shinkansen Green Car offers spacious seating and a quiet atmosphere, making travel time more comfortable.

Having a power outlet at your seat is another welcome feature.

It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy a relaxing journey in their own personal space.