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    Daily use guide

    How to use your Japan Rail Pass

    The Japan Rail Pass is simple once you know the routine. Here is how to use it at gates, on the shinkansen and for free seat reservations.

    01

    Going through the ticket gate

    • Insert your pass into the slot of the automatic ticket gate and take it back when it comes out on the other side.
    • At smaller stations or when in doubt, walk through the manned gate and show the pass.
    • Keep the pass in a small sleeve so it stays flat and readable at the gates.
    02

    Reserving seats for free

    Seat reservations are included with the pass. Scan the QR code on your pass at a shinkansen or JR reserved seat ticket machine, or ask staff at any JR ticket office.

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

    03

    Boarding the shinkansen

    • 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.
    04

    If something goes wrong

    • 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.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Do I tap the pass at the gate?

    No. Insert the pass into the slot of the automatic gate and collect it on the other side. The QR code on the pass is used at ticket machines to reserve seats.

    Are seat reservations really free?

    Yes, every reservation is included with the pass for as long as it is valid.

    Can I use non reserved cars without booking?

    Yes. On most shinkansen the first three cars are non reserved and free with the pass.

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