Hi Justin, that’s a good question. The chance of you getting checked is very low, but the JR staff may ask to see your passport to confirm that you are the real holder of the Japan Rail Pass.

This is to prevent others from buying Japan Rail Passes for their japanese friends before their trip, since JR passes only are for tourists.

We therefore recommend to always carry your passport with you while in Japan if you intend to use the Shinkansen bullet trains during your stay.

With kind regards, Jonathan H.

Getjrpass.com Staff