How to use your Japan Rail Pass

• At most major stations the new automatic gates accept the QR code on your pass.
• At smaller stations or when in doubt, walk through the manned gate and show the pass.
• Keep the pass in a small sleeve, the paper version creases quickly.

Seat reservations are included with the pass. You can reserve at a green ticket window, at a JR ticket machine or in person at any major station.

Reserve early during cherry blossom, Golden Week, summer holidays and New Year.

• Find your platform on the screens, trains run on time to the minute.
• Cars 1 to 3 are usually non reserved on most lines, the rest are reserved.
• Green cars are first class and require a green pass or a paid upgrade.

• Missed train: with the pass you simply take the next one, no fee.
• Lost pass: replacements are not issued, treat it like cash.
• Wrong train type: Nozomi and Mizuho need a supplement, pay at the conductor if you boarded by mistake.