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The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around Japan using the extensive JR railway network. To use this pass, you need to activate it upon arrival in Japan. Below is a step-by-step guide to activating your JR Pass.
Before arriving in Japan, you must purchase an Exchange Order for the JR Pass. This can be done through authorized travel agencies online, such as Trip to Japan, or in your home country.
Be sure to check the eligibility criteria, as the JR Pass is available only to temporary visitors with a "Temporary Visitor" visa status.
Once you arrive in Japan, you need to exchange your Exchange Order for an actual JR Pass. JR Exchange Offices can be found at major international airports such as:
Narita International Airport (Tokyo)
Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
Kansai International Airport (Osaka)
Chubu Centrair Airport (Nagoya)
You can also find JR Exchange Offices in major train stations, including:
Tokyo Station
Shinagawa Station
Shinjuku Station
Osaka Station
Kyoto Station
When you arrive at the JR Exchange Office, you need to provide the following documents:
Your Exchange Order (physical voucher)
Your valid passport
Proof of your "Temporary Visitor" visa status (stamped on your passport upon entry to Japan)
At the JR Exchange Office, you will be asked to select the start date for your JR Pass. You can choose to activate it immediately or set a date within 30 days from the exchange date.
Be strategic about when you activate your pass, as the JR Pass is valid for consecutive days (e.g., 7, 14, or 21 days) and cannot be paused.
Important: Double-Check Your Activation Dates!
When activating your JR Pass, you can choose a future start date. Be sure to confirm the exact start and end dates with the JR staff, as mistakes can happen. Always verify the validity period before leaving the counter to avoid travel issues with an expired pass.
Once your activation is confirmed, you will receive your JR Pass. Carefully review the details on the pass, including the validity period. You may be asked to sign the pass in the designated space.
With an activated JR Pass, you can begin traveling! Keep these tips in mind:
You can use the JR Pass for non-reserved seating on JR trains. If you prefer a reserved seat, visit a JR ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi) and book your seat at no extra cost.
Unlike regular tickets, the JR Pass does not work in automatic ticket gates. Instead, show your pass to station staff at manned gates.
The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho), limited express, and local JR trains.
If you lose your JR Pass, it cannot be reissued, so keep it safe.
If your travel plans change, you cannot extend an existing JR Pass. You must purchase a new one.
If you need help, visit any JR Travel Service Center for guidance.
By following these steps, you can smoothly activate and use your JR Pass to explore Japan conveniently and affordably.
