What is the JR Pass?
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass is a special, all-you-can-ride train pass available only to international tourists visiting Japan. It offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains), for a set number of days — making it one of the best deals for those planning to explore multiple cities.
Who Can Use It?
The JR Pass is available only to foreign tourists who are visiting Japan on a “Temporary Visitor” visa status. If you’re living in Japan or visiting on a long-term visa, you won’t be eligible.
Can Japanese Citizens Use the JR Pass?
Yes — Japanese nationals who have lived outside of Japan for more than 10 years can use the JR Pass, under certain conditions.
To qualify, they must:
- Have lived outside Japan for 10 years or more.
- Obtain a “Certificate of Overseas Residence” (在留証明) from a Japanese embassy or consulate before entering Japan.
- Show proof of long-term residence, such as a visa or green card, when applying for the certificate.
This means if you’re a Japanese citizen living abroad — for example, in the U.S. — and you’ve been living there for over a decade, you’re eligible to purchase and use the JR Pass just like foreign tourists.
Important Reminder: You must bring the certificate when exchanging your voucher or purchasing the pass in Japan. Without it, you won’t be allowed to use the JR Pass, even if you meet the requirements
Can Japanese Children Use the JR Pass?
Yes, Japanese children under 12 years old can use the JR Pass under specific conditions:
- Residency Requirement: While the standard rule requires Japanese nationals to have lived outside Japan for at least 10 consecutive years to be eligible for the JR Pass, an exception is made for children under 12. If a child has lived abroad for less than 10 years but resides with a parent or guardian who meets the 10-year residency requirement, the child is also eligible to use the pass.
- Overseas Residential Registration (在留証明書): This must clearly show that the parent or guardian has resided outside of Japan for more than 10 consecutive years, and the child lives at the same address. This certificate is usually issued by a Japanese embassy or consulate.
- Child’s Passport: A copy of the child’s Japanese passport is required to verify identity and age.
- Parent/Guardian’s Passport: To verify the 10-year residency status.
When purchasing or exchanging the JR Pass, make sure to bring all the necessary documents to prove eligibility. The process is strict, especially for Japanese nationals, so careful preparation is essential.
Types and Prices
There are three durations to choose from:
- 7 days
- 14 days
- 21 days
You can also choose between Ordinary (economy class) and Green Car (first class). Prices vary depending on the duration and class.
| Type | Duration | Ordinary Class (Adult) | Ordinary Class (Child) | Green Class (Adult) | Green Class (Child) |
|---|
| Nationwide JR Pass | 7 Days | ¥50,000 | ¥25,000 | ¥70,000 | ¥35,000 |
| 14 Days | ¥80,000 | ¥40,000 | ¥110,000 | ¥55,000 |
| 21 Days | ¥100,000 | ¥50,000 | ¥140,000 | ¥70,000 |
Child: Age 6–11.
Green Class: Equivalent to first class.
Be sure to check the official JR Pass website for the latest info—things like prices and rules can change!
Where Can You Use It?
The JR Pass covers
- Most JR trains nationwide, including the Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho trains)
- JR local lines in major cities (like Tokyo and Osaka)
- Some JR buses and the JR Miyajima ferry
It does NOT cover
- Subways or private railway companies
- Nozomi or Mizuho Shinkansen trains
- Airport transfers on non-JR trains
Purchase Before Arriving in Japan:
Online purchase
- Visit the official JR Pass website to purchase an Exchange Order (voucher) online before your trip.
- After purchasing, you’ll receive a reference number, which you can exchange for the actual JR Pass upon arrival in Japan.
Authorized Online Retailers
- Several authorized travel agencies offer online sales of the JR Pass.
- Ensure the retailer is recognized by the JR Group to guarantee the validity of your pass.
Skip the hassle and order your JR Pass before your trip – CLICK HERE to get it delivered to your door!
Exchange Your Voucher for the JR Pass in Japan
Upon Arrival
- After arriving in Japan, visit a JR Exchange Office (also known as “Midori no Madoguchi”) at major train stations or airports.
- Present your reference number and passport to receive your JR Pass.
Activation
- Specify the desired start date for your pass, which can be any date within 30 days of exchange.
- The pass will be valid for consecutive days based on the duration purchased (7, 14, or 21 days).
How to Enter Shinkansen Stations with the JR Pass
Approach the Ticket Gate
When you arrive at the Shinkansen platform area, look for the designated JR gates where you can access the Shinkansen. These are often separate from the regular JR local trains.
If you’re using a Japan Rail Pass, you will not use the standard ticket vending machines. Instead, you’ll need to go through a special ticket gate that is available for pass holders.
AT the JR gate
Japan Rail Pass holders should go to the JR Pass designated gate or Staffed Ticket Gate (this is often marked with a sign showing the Japan Rail Pass logo).
At these gates, you will need to show your Japan Rail Pass to the station staff who will verify it. The staff will either scan your pass or mark your pass with the travel date and allow you to enter the Shinkansen platform.
Ticket Machine Option
If you don’t want to wait in line at the staffed ticket gate and are using a non-reserved seat on the Shinkansen, you can also use a ticket machine that allows you to insert your Japan Rail Pass.
The machine will read your pass and automatically grant you access to the platform. Just like using a regular ticket, your pass will be scanned, and the gate will open, allowing you to pass through to the Shinkansen platform. Make sure you don’t forget to pick up the pass.
Boarding the Shinkansen
Once you’ve passed through the gate, follow the signs to your Shinkansen platform. Be sure to check the departure time and platform number for your specific train.
If you’ve made a seat reservation, look for the reserved car number on your pass and follow the signs to your designated car.
If you’re traveling on a train with non-reserved seats, you can sit in any available seat that is not marked as reserved. The first few cars are typically non- reserved seats. These cars are usually marked with a sign that says “自由席” (Jiyū-seki) or “Non-reserved” in English.
Important Notes
Eligibility
- The JR Pass is available to foreign tourists visiting Japan under the “Temporary Visitor” visa status.
- Japanese nationals residing abroad for more than 10 consecutive years are also eligible.
Documentation
- Carry your passport at all times, as it’s required for pass exchange and verification during train travel.
Online Seat Reservations
- JR Pass holders can make seat reservations online in multiple languages through the JR Group’s official websites.
Validity
- The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on JR lines, including most Shinkansen (excluding Nozomi and Mizuho), limited express, express, rapid, and local trains, as well as some buses and ferries.
The Japan Rail Pass is one of the best ways for travelers—especially those planning to visit multiple cities—to explore Japan efficiently and affordably. Whether you’re a tourist or a Japanese citizen living abroad for over 10 years, this pass offers convenience, flexibility, and great value. Just be sure to purchase it in advance and understand the rules before you travel.
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