Today, we're diving into the world of Japan's iconic Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train. The network connects a whole bunch of Japan's major cities, from Tokyo and Osaka to Kyoto and beyond. Fancy travelling in style? You'll be happy to know there are different classes to choose from, but on this particular trip, we're setting our sights on the comfy and eco-friendly Shinkansen Green Car.

Let's explore what makes this special carriage tick!

Shinkansen, sleek speedsters, first zipped onto the scene in 1964, whizzing passengers between cities at breakneck speeds. But the Shinkansen isn't just about going fast – their bullet-like shape, designed for aerodynamics, helps them slice through the air with minimal fuss.

Imagine zooming across Japan at speeds that would make a cheetah blush – that's the magic of the Shinkansen bullet train. But for those who crave a touch more luxury on their high-speed adventure, there's the Green Car – the business class of the Shinkansen world.

Scouting out the Green Cars is a breeze! Just look for a snazzy four-leaf clover symbol (that's green, of course) on the side of the fancy 1st class carriages, usually near the front doors. These posh spots are on most Shinkansen trains, so finding your comfy haven shouldn't be a mission.

Here's the thing, though – Green Cars aren't on every Shinkansen train. It's kind of like a lottery – some have them, some don't, depending on the specific train and company operating it. Just a heads up, the JR West Hikari Rail Star doesn't offer Green Cars, but at least it has a roomy 2x2 seating arrangement for pre-booked tickets.

So, the next time you plan a Japanese bullet train trip, watch for the Green Car option. It's the upgrade your high-speed journey needs!

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The beauty of the JR Pass is that it unlocks a world of Shinkansen travel, but standard seats are just the beginning. Here's the Green Car JR Passes deal: they're not cheap, but depending on your travel style, they can be a good value.

Prices depend on how long you'll be zooming around Japan, such as:

Feeling fancy? Deciding between Green Car and Gran Class for your Shinkansen adventure? Buckle up because we're about to dissect the differences!

Green Car offers a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. It's an upgrade over regular seating on your JR Pass. Gran Class, however, takes things up a notch – it requires an additional upgrade on top of your JR Pass, so be prepared to shell out more.

Green Car is a self-service zone, but Gran Class is where you get pampered. A dedicated train attendant awaits your beck and call (on some routes) with a handy service button on your seat.

Green Car is comfy, with wider, reclining seats in a 2-2 layout, perfect for couples or friends travelling together. One car holds around 55 passengers.

Gran Class is an oasis of personal space. Imagine plush, 1-2 seat arrangements with only 18 passengers per car. Think rich wood, genuine leather, and wool – pure luxury! Plus, their headrest pillows are ridiculously comfortable and adjustable.

Green Car is widely available, except for specific trains like Mizuho and Nozomi. Gran Class is exclusive to select routes: Tohoku, Hokuriku, Joetsu, and Hokkaido Shinkansen.

Green Car offers some perks like oshibori towels and route-specific snacks (ice cream on the Kyushu service, anyone?). Gran Class goes all-out: a menu featuring gourmet, locally sourced delicacies, a blanket, warm towel, slippers (keep them!), chocolates, and an eye mask.

Need a drink? They've got everything from coffee to fancy beverages, all complimentary. Food service starts as soon as you depart.

Green Car shares the standard facilities. Gran Class boasts a spacious haven with a proper bidet and a dressing room for added convenience.

You can purchase the JR Pass Green Car from Traveloka. Afterwards, you will get the exchange order. But how do you actually use this golden ticket? Fear not, fellow traveller, for this guide will illuminate the path to Green Car bliss.

Upon purchasing your desired JR Pass, you'll receive an Exchange Order. This is your proof of purchase, so treat it like a prized possession. Keep it safe and sound for your Japanese adventure.

When you land in Japan, don't forget to remind the immigration officer to stamp your passport with a 'temporary visitor' stamp. This is crucial for using your JR Pass.

Before you can hop on the Green Car, you need to exchange your Exchange Order for an actual JR Pass. Head to any JR Pass office branch and they'll happily make the switch.

Once you've got your JR Pass in hand, it's time to find the JR-only entrance. Usually, this is a separate entrance from the regular ticket gates for ordinary passengers. If you're lost, just show your JR Pass to the station attendant, and they'll point you in the right direction.

Now comes the exciting part – boarding the Green Car! Look for the snazzy green clover symbol on the side of the fancy 1st class carriages, usually near the front doors. These posh spots are on most Shinkansen trains, so finding your comfy haven shouldn't be a mission.

Settle into your wider, reclining seat, kick back on the footrest, and savour the extra legroom. With your JR Pass and Green Car sorted, you're all set for a luxurious Shinkansen journey. Bon voyage!

So, there you have it! The Shinkansen Green Car offers a taste of luxury for the discerning traveller. With wider seats, more legroom, and a quieter ambience, it elevates your journey to a whole new level of comfort.

Ready to experience Japan in style? Open the Traveloka App and get everything you need in one place - get your flight tickets from Singapore to Tokyo, hotel bookings, and a JR Pass with Green Car access. prepare to be pampered on your Shinkansen adventure. Trust us, your feet (and your sense of relaxation) will thank you!