Midori no Madoguchi – JR Ticket Offices in Japan

In this updated guide, you’ll learn exactly what Midori no Madoguchi, the official JR Ticket Office in Japan, offers for foreign visitors.

We’ll cover real-world details such as services, locations, hours, alternatives, and must-know tips—drawing from the latest JR announcements and data.

You’ll never worry about train tickets again after reading this.

Midori no Madoguchi Overview and Services

The Midori no Madoguchi (Green Ticket Office) is the main staffed JR Ticket Office in many stations across Japan.

A traveler can use it to buy Shinkansen or limited express tickets, get seat reservations, and handle pass-related issues—all with human assistance.

Especially for tourists navigating Japan’s rail network for the first time, it remains a trusted option alongside digital ticketing alternatives.

What is Midori no Madoguchi?

Located in major JR stations, Midori no Madoguchi counters are staffed ticket offices operated by JR East, JR West, JR Central, etc.

These counters offer personal service—not just automated machines—ideal for passengers who need guidance in choosing the right tickets.

For many foreign travelers, it’s their primary point of contact in the station for rail-related inquiries, assistance in English, and special services.

Services Offered at Midori no Madoguchi

At Midori no Madoguchi, here is what you can typically do with the help of station staff:

• Purchase Shinkansen, Limited Express, and standard tickets
• Make seat reservations (reserved seats for Shinkansen or other trains)
• Handle ticket exchanges and special discounted ticket services
• In some major stations, consult staff who speak English or Chinese and handle JR Pass exchange, ICOCA / Haruka purchase.

Midori no Madoguchi Locations in Japan

The Midori no Madoguchi counters are concentrated in major transport hubs, while smaller or rural stations may not have them.

Tourists should verify station facilities in advance to avoid surprises.

It’s especially important to confirm this before relying on a counter, as JR East had planned to reduce the number of counters but has paused that reduction for now.

Major Tokyo Stations with Midori no Madoguchi

Important stations in Tokyo, including Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, and others, host full-service Midori no Madoguchi or JR Travel Service Centers.

For example, at Tokyo Station, the JR EAST Travel Service Center is located inside JAPAN RAIL CAFÉ and operates from 8:30 to 19:00 daily.

【Midori no Madoguchi at Tokyo Station】

Midori no Madoguchi at Regional Hubs

Key regional terminals such as Kyoto Station also have full-service counters.

At Kyoto Station, general ticket counters run 5:30–23:00, while the overseas visitor desk near the JR Central Ticket Office operates 8:00–20:00 with staff who speak English and Chinese.

The station also provides services in English and Chinese for overseas visitors.

Similarly, major JR West or JR East stations in Kansai, Hokkaido, Tohoku, etc., offer staffed assistance.

Stations Without Midori no Madoguchi

In less busy or rural stations, some Midori no Madoguchi have already been closed as part of JR’s shift toward on-line or automated ticketing.

As of April 2024, JR East is operating 209 ticket offices after pausing part of its reduction plan.

Some previously closed offices may be reopened during peak travel periods.”

If a station has no Midori no Madoguchi, you’ll use reserved-seat ticket machines, online services, or an information desk, depending on the station.

Midori no Madoguchi Opening Hours and Peak Times

Midori no Madoguchi hours vary widely by station but often align with early morning to late evening or even near midnight in some places.

Knowing operating hours and peak time patterns can help avoid long waits or closed counters.

JR’s decision to pause counter reductions reflects how vital human-staffed services remain, especially during tourism surges.

Standard Operating Hours

Best Times to Visit the Ticket Office

To avoid queues, schedules suggest visiting Midori no Madoguchi outside of peak commuting hours.

But avoid the morning rush (7:00–9:00) and evening peak (17:00–19:00).

Also, during Obon (mid-August) and end-of-financial-year (late March), JR East temporarily reopens some previously closed counters to accommodate high demand.

If you are at a station prone to crowding, arriving at the counter right before opening may save time.

Midori no Madoguchi Alternatives for Buying Tickets

While Midori no Madoguchi offers face-to-face service, JR has expanded alternative ticketing options especially for being quick, multilingual, and often open longer hours.

Understanding your options improves flexibility.

JR Ticket Machines

Many stations feature “Green” ticket vending machines, reserved-seat machines, or e-ticketing systems like e5489.

Machines often support multiple languages, accept credit cards, and operate extended hours.

Some tickets, especially discounted or special-offer tickets, might not be available from machines and require a staffed counter.

Online Reservations and Apps

Services like JR-EAST Train Reservation, e5489, and other official JR regional online portals let you book tickets in advance.

After booking, you must collect your physical ticket at a reserved-seat machine or Midori no Madoguchi depending on the reservation conditions.

Machines allow QR-code pickup in many cases.

Travel Agency and Third-Party Platforms

Third-party platforms like Klook, Japanican, or agencies inside JR stations (e.g., TiS branches) also sell tickets, passes, and travel packages.

However, rates, pickup locations, or conditions may vary, so always verify before purchase.

At stations like Kyoto, TiS branches operate alongside Midori no Madoguchi to help overseas travelers.

Midori no Madoguchi Etiquette and Tips

Using Midori no Madoguchi effectively means preparing in advance, communicating clearly, and knowing what to expect.

Preparing for Your Ticket Purchase

• Have your destination, date, departure time, and train type ready.
• Know whether you want reserved or non-reserved seats, and whether you need Green Car (first-class) or standard.
• Payment should be in cash or credit card; virtual-only cards might not be accepted—especially for large purchases.

Language Support and English Assistance

At major staffed counters, some station employees speak English.

Writing your request clearly (station names, times, number of passengers) can help even where language support is limited.

If needed, staff may also write out train names or convey elevator or platform instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming hours
  some counters close early or open in split shifts (e.g., Narita with morning and evening hours).
• Not checking for temporary closures or counter reductions
  JR East is maintaining 209 counters but may still make changes seasonally.
• Waiting until the last minute
  ticket counters can have long lines, especially during holidays or peak periods. Visiting outside peak rush times is smart planning.

Midori no Madoguchi FAQs

Here are common traveler questions along with up-to-date answers:

Are all “Midori no Madoguchi” open every day?

Not necessarily. Hours vary—some open early and close late, others longer midday hours. Check station-specific info before visiting.

Can I pick up tickets I reserved online at Midori no Madoguchi?

Yes. Depending on the service, you can pick up reserved tickets either at Midori no Madoguchi or at designated reserved-seat machines.

Are JR planning to reduce ticket counters?

JR East had a plan to reduce counters from 440 to 140 by 2025, but due to demand, they have paused reductions and are keeping 209 counters active.

Final Thoughts on Midori no Madoguchi

Midori no Madoguchi remains a reliable, human-centered point of sale for train tickets, seat reservations, and passenger assistance across Japan’s rail network.

Especially for first-time visitors, it offers clarity and peace of mind in dealing with Shinkansen or Limited Express services.

However, being informed about locations, hours, and alternative methods will help you navigate JR with confidence and minimal hassle.

Whether you prefer face-to-face help or digital tools, the Japanese rail system remains highly accessible—start planning early for smooth travel ahead.

Watch This Before Coming to Japan!