Are you ready for Japan?

Japan Checklist

What to think about before going to Japan for the first time...

Heading to Japan with a Japan Rail Pass? Equip yourself with essential tips and guidelines for a seamless travel experience. From planning and preparation to making the most of your JR Pass during your trip, this comprehensive checklist covers everything you need to know. Get ready to explore the wonders of Japan with ease and confidence by following these essential pointers. Bon voyage!

Check before your trip

Check passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan.

Verify eligibility: Confirm that you qualify for the Japan Rail Pass as a temporary visitor, with the purpose of tourism.

Purchase JR Pass voucher: Buy the Japan Rail Pass voucher from an authorized sales agent, such as Getjrpass.com before departing to Japan. Remember, the voucher cannot be purchased within Japan.

Plan your itinerary: Plan your travel destinations, routes, and schedule in advance, taking note of the different JR lines and connections.

Research train schedules: Check train timetables for the various JR lines, especially for Shinkansen (bullet trains) and limited express trains.

What shall I bring to Japan?

Passport: Bring your original passport (not a photocopy) with the “Temporary Visitor” stamp or status, as it is required to exchange the JR Pass voucher. If you travel on any other Visa, your exchange will be denied.

JR Pass voucher: Don’t forget to pack the physical voucher you received after purchasing the Japan Rail Pass from Getjrpass. JR does not accept a photocopy or pictures of your JR Pass voucher. You are required to bring the original voucher sent out physically by UPS. This is very important.

Exchange the voucher

Locate a JR Pass exchange office: Find an exchange office at major train stations or airports upon your arrival in Japan.

Choose a start date: Pick a start date for your JR Pass within 30 days of voucher exchange. The start date cannot be changed once the pass is issued.

Provide required documents: Present your original passport and the voucher at the exchange office. Japanese citizens are required to show a certificate provided by their embassy.

Receive your JR Pass: Obtain your Japan Rail Pass after successful verification of your documents.

More to think about in Japan

Seat reservation

Although not mandatory, reserve seats on Shinkansen and limited express trains for a smoother journey. Reservations are free for JR Pass holders and can be booked with help of JR Staff at your nearest JR office or with the ticket machines located in major train stations or airports. Have a look at this video!

Keep the pass safe

Treat your JR Pass like a valuable document, as it is non-transferable and cannot be reissued if lost or stolen. Luckely, it’s the size of a normal credit card and fit perfectly in your wallet.

Pack light

Travel with compact and easy-to-carry luggage, as space on trains can be limited and navigating through busy stations with large bags can be challenging.

Seek assistance at JR information counters

Utilize the help of JR information counters located in major train stations for inquiries about train schedules, routes, seat reservations, and other travel-related concerns. The staff can often provide assistance in English.

Know the train types

Familiarize yourself with the different types of trains in Japan, such as local, rapid, express, and limited express trains, to make informed choices based on your travel needs and JR Pass coverage.

Japan Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card

Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device from NINJA WiFi or purchasing a local SIM card for easy internet access during your trip if your mobile provider doesn’t include Japan. SIM providers in Europe such as 3 include Japan in their world-subscription – we therefore recommend to doublecheck with your provider before the trip.

Download a navigation app

Japan-specific navigation app like Navitimer, Hyperdia, Jorudan, or the official JR East app for easy access to train schedules and routes. Some even show prices, stops, timetables and tips. Read more about it here.

JR Pass coverage

Familiarize yourself with the JR Pass coverage area to avoid using non-JR lines, which may incur additional charges.

Understand the limitations

Know the limitations of the JR Pass, such as exclusion of Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains. More about that can be found here.

Learn basic Japanese phrases

Familiarize yourself with common Japanese phrases and etiquette to help navigate your travels and interact with locals more comfortably.

Carry a power bank

Bring a portable power bank to keep your devices charged while on the go, as not all trains have accessible power outlets. Japan is a very photogenic country – you’ll use your camera and phone all the time!

Mind the train schedules

Be aware that most train services in Japan stop operating around midnight, so plan your travels accordingly to avoid getting stranded.

Be punctual

Japanese trains are known for their punctuality. Arrive at the station a few minutes early to ensure you don’t miss your train.

Travel during off-peak season

Avoid traveling during Japan’s peak travel seasons, such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year’s holidays, to experience less crowded trains and popular tourist spots.

Utilize luggage forwarding services

Consider using luggage forwarding services (takkyubin) to send your luggage to your next accommodation, allowing you to travel more comfortably on trains.