How to Activate and Use the Japan Rail Pass (Step-by-Step 2025)

Getting Started with Your JR Pass

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) allows unlimited travel on JR trains across Japan — but many travelers aren’t sure how to activate and use it properly. This guide explains every step, from exchange to seat reservation, to ensure a stress-free start to your Japan journey.

Step 1: Purchase Before Arrival

The JR Pass is available only to foreign tourists under “temporary visitor” status.
You must buy it online before arriving in Japan from an authorized distributor.

Once purchased, you’ll receive a voucher (Exchange Order) by email or mail, which you’ll exchange in Japan.

Step 2: Exchange Your Voucher in Japan

After arriving, visit a JR EAST Travel Service Center (JR East) or a JR Exchange Office (JR West Midori no Madoguchi) located at major airports and train stations.

Main exchange locations:

JR Pass Exchange / Ticket Office Business Hours

Bring these items:

• Your passport (with “Temporary Visitor” stamp)
• The Exchange Order or QR code
• Your activation date preference

Step 3: Choose Your Activation Date

You don’t need to activate your pass immediately after exchanging it.
You can select a start date up to 30 days later, ideal for those staying in Tokyo before starting long-distance travel.

Step 4: Start Using Your JR Pass

Once activated, your JR Pass acts as a train ticket. Simply show it to station staff at the manual gate (not the automatic gate).

You can:

• Ride Shinkansen (except Nozomi/Mizuho)
• Use Limited Express, Rapid, and Local JR trains
• Access certain JR buses and JR ferries (e.g., Miyajima Ferry)

Step 5: Reserve Shinkansen and Limited Express Seats

You can reserve seats at:

• JR Ticket Offices (Midori no Madoguchi)
• Online via JR’s official booking systems
• Ticket machines in major stations (English available)

Pro tip: For long trips (Tokyo–Kyoto, Osaka–Hiroshima), seat reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends or holidays.

Step 6: How to Read Your JR Ticket

Your reservation slip includes:

• Departure & arrival stations
• Train type (e.g., Hikari, Sakura)
• Departure time and seat number
• Car number (usually 1–16)

Make sure to sit in your assigned car and seat.

JR Pass Usage Example

Step 7: Expiration and Reuse Rules

• The JR Pass is valid for consecutive days (e.g., 7, 14, or 21).
• It cannot be paused once activated.
• Make the most of your days — plan your long-distance trips during active days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Forgetting your passport (you must show it for activation)
• ❌ Trying to use Nozomi/Mizuho trains (not covered)
• ❌ Expecting automatic gate access — you must show your pass manually

Final Thoughts

Activating and using the Japan Rail Pass is straightforward once you understand the process.
By buying in advance and knowing how to exchange and reserve, you can enjoy seamless train travel across Japan — from the Shinkansen to scenic local lines.