Using JR pass (green class) to go in the green cars on the sobu line (rapid) trains

We struggled a bit with using the local train with green cars using our JR pass (green class) since there wasn’t any available information online about this topic. Thought it might be useful for anyone who is interested.

Here is what we learned:
– You can use local JR trains by putting the JR pass with the QR code into the automatic gates when entering and exiting the station (this part is the same regardless of whether you have the green class or ordinary class JR pass). Not all of the automatic gates have the slot for the ticket. You will need to look for one but there is generally at least one among the other automatic gates (with IC function only).

– the sobu train had regular cars and green cars. When using the green cars, look for signs on the platform to know where the green cars will stop. The sticker on the floor is very confusing so it might be easier to look at the signs hanging above.

– there are two floors in each car. You can sit in any empty seat (all seats are non-reserved)

– you may notice that the light above your seat is red. Once you show your JR pass (green class) to the ticket conductor, who will come by at some point, and tell them the station you will get off at, the light above you will turn green. If you don’t have a JR pass (green class), you can just pay for the seat by tapping your Suica card on the Suica logo above your seat (the red light will turn green immediately).

– there were signs that said a washroom was onboard. We didn’t use it so not sure how big it is.

– there is no designated luggage area. There is a section of the green car where there is an overhead rack to put smaller carry on but nothing for oversized luggage.

Happy travels!