01
Fields on a shinkansen ticket
- From and to stations in kanji and romaji.
- Train name and number, for example Nozomi 21.
- Departure date and time.
- Car number and seat number, such as 7 car, 12 D.
Travel basics
How to read a Japanese train ticket: a visual guide
Japanese train tickets pack a lot of information into a small slip. Knowing what each field means saves time at gates and avoids boarding the wrong car.
02
JR Pass reservation slip
When you reserve with a JR Pass you get an additional slip showing the train, car and seat. Keep it with the pass at all times. The pass goes in the manned gate, the slip stays in your pocket.
03
At the gate
- Single ticket: feed into the automatic gate.
- JR Pass: show at the manned gate or use a designated automated gate at large stations.
- Keep all tickets until you exit the destination station.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Do I keep the JR Pass after the gate?
Yes. Keep it for the entire trip, you need it to exit too.
What if I lose the reservation slip?
Visit a JR office to reprint, free of charge with the pass.
What does jiyu seki mean?
Non reserved seat. Yubi seki is reserved seat.
Related articles
Keep exploring Japan Rail Pass topics relevant to your trip.