Japan Rail Pass
Japan Rail Passes: How to Purchase, Receive and Refund
Japan Rail Passes are a convenient and cost effective way to explore Japan by rail. Whether you are planning to take a short trip or a longer journey, these passes offer travelers a great value for their money. With a variety of passes available, there is something for everyone.
The Japan Rail Pass is available in two types
The Green Pass and the Ordinary Pass. The Green Pass provides access to all JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and other express trains. The Ordinary Pass is valid on all JR trains except for the Shinkansen and express trains. Both passes are available for a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day period.
Purchasing a Japan Rail Pass is easy
You can purchase the pass online. When purchasing online, you will need to provide your passport information and a valid credit card. Once your purchase is complete, you will receive a voucher that you will need to exchange for the actual pass at a JR ticket office in Japan.
When you exchange your voucher for the pass, you will also receive a Japan Rail Pass Exchange Order. This order is your proof of purchase and must be presented when you use the pass. It is important to keep this document safe as it cannot be replaced if lost.
You can exchange your voucher for the pass at most major Japan Train Stations. To see office locations, and opening hours. Click Here
Notes: Some Travel Service Centers may be closed during the year-end and new year holidays. Also, the business hours at pick-up locations/exchange locations/sales offices may be subject to change, or they may be closed without notice. (As of March 2023)
Got Your Pass?
Once you have your pass, you can start using it right away. You can use it on any JR train, including the Shinkansen and express trains. It is important to note that you must reserve a seat on the Shinkansen in advance.
The Japan Rail Pass is non-refundable
However, if you are unable to use the pass due to illness, you may be eligible for a refund. To be eligible for a refund, you must submit a refund application to the JR ticket office where you exchanged your voucher. The application must include a copy of your passport, a doctor's note, and a copy of the Japan Rail Pass Exchange Order. The refund amount will be calculated based on the number of days you were unable to use the pass.
The Japan Rail Pass is a great way to explore Japan by rail. With a variety of passes available, you can find one that fits your travel plans. The pass is easy to purchase online or at select JR ticket offices in Japan. Once you have the pass, you can start using it right away. If you are unable to use the pass due to illness, you may be eligible for a refund.
JR Pass Checklist
Are you planning a trip to Japan? If you are, then you’ve likely heard of the Japan Rail (JR) Pass. The JR Pass is a great way to save money when traveling in Japan, as it allows you to use any JR train lines, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), for a set period of time. However, before you can use the JR Pass, you need to make sure you have everything in order. To help you out, here is a JR Pass checklist to make sure you don’t miss any important steps:
1
Purchase the JR Pass: The first step is to purchase the JR Pass. You can do this online or at a JR ticket office in Japan. Make sure to purchase the correct type of pass for your needs, as there are different passes available for different lengths of time.
2
Exchange your voucher for the JR Pass: After purchasing the JR Pass, you will receive a voucher. This voucher must be exchanged for the actual JR Pass at a JR ticket office in Japan. Make sure to bring your passport with you when exchanging your voucher, as it is required for the exchange.
3
Activate the JR Pass: Once you have exchanged your voucher for the JR Pass, you must activate the pass at a JR ticket office. This is done by filling out a form and providing your passport.
4
Set your start date: When you activate the JR Pass, you must set a start date for when you will begin using it. Make sure to plan ahead and set the start date for when you will actually begin using the JR Pass.
5
Make sure you have the right ticket: When using the JR Pass, you must have the correct ticket for the train you are taking. Make sure to check the ticket type before boarding the train.
Following this JR Pass checklist will ensure that you are ready to use the JR Pass when you arrive in Japan. With the JR Pass, you can save money and make the most of your trip to Japan.
