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    Green vs Ordinary class

    Compare first class and standard class JR Pass options to find the perfect fit for your Japan adventure.

    The Japan Rail Pass comes in two classes: Green (first class) and Ordinary (standard class). Both provide unlimited travel on JR trains, but Green class offers enhanced comfort and premium amenities for a more luxurious journey.

    20%
    Wider seats in Green
    12cm
    Extra legroom
    4 vs 5
    Seats per row
    ~30%
    Price premium
    Premium

    Green class

    First class experience

    Extra-wide reclining seats
    2+2 seating configuration
    Generous legroom (1,160mm)
    Individual reading lights
    Power outlet at every seat
    Blankets on some routes
    Quieter, less crowded cars
    Leg rests for relaxation

    Від

    ...

    на 7 днів

    Ordinary class

    Затишок стандартного класу

    Comfortable reclining seats
    2+3 seating configuration
    Good legroom (1,040mm)
    Overhead lighting
    Power outlets (window/aisle)
    Standard amenities
    Popular, busier carriages
    Standard recline angle

    Від

    ...

    на 7 днів

    Порівняння функцій

    Detailed comparison

    A complete breakdown of what each class offers.

    Seat width
    Green classApproximately 47-48cm
    Ordinary classApproximately 43-44cm
    Legroom
    Green class1,160mm seat pitch
    Ordinary class1,040mm seat pitch
    Recline
    Green classDeep recline with leg rest
    Ordinary classStandard recline
    Seating layout
    Green class2+2 configuration
    Ordinary class2+3 configuration
    Seats per row
    Green class4 seats
    Ordinary class5 seats
    Reading light
    Green classIndividual reading light
    Ordinary classOverhead lighting only
    Power outlets
    Green classAt every seat
    Ordinary classWindow and aisle seats only (newer trains)
    Noise level
    Green classQuieter, fewer passengers
    Ordinary classMore crowded, busier
    Blankets & amenities
    Green classBlanket, slippers on some routes
    Ordinary classNot provided
    Free WiFi
    Green classAvailable
    Ordinary classAvailable
    Seat configuration

    More space, fewer seats

    The most noticeable difference is the seating layout. Green class uses a 2+2 configuration, meaning two seats on each side of the aisle. This immediately gives each seat more width and elbow room.

    Ordinary class uses a 2+3 configuration, with two seats on one side and three on the other. The middle seat in the three-seat row has no direct access to the aisle or window.

    Seat layout comparison

    Green class (2+2)

    A
    B
    aisle
    C
    D

    Ordinary class (2+3)

    A
    B
    aisle
    C
    D
    E

    Which should you choose?

    Consider your travel style and priorities when deciding.

    Choose Green if

    • Value extra comfort on long journeys
    • Prefer a quieter travel environment
    • Need more space for work or relaxation
    • Are traveling during peak seasons

    Choose Ordinary if

    • Want to maximize your travel budget
    • Are comfortable with standard seating
    • Travel mostly shorter distances
    • Don't mind busier carriages

    Ready to order your JR Pass?

    Choose between Green and Ordinary class and start planning your Japan adventure.