Can I buy JR Pass after arriving in Japan?

Yes, but it costs about 20% more. Buy online before travel and exchange your voucher at major stations or airports in Japan.

Do I need reservations for all shinkansen trains?

No. Most shinkansen have non-reserved cars (usually cars 1-3). You can board without reservations but might have to stand during busy times.

What if ticket machines don't have English?

Look for machines with a small English flag sticker or ask station staff to point you to English-capable machines. Most major stations have them.

Can I use credit cards for train tickets?

Yes, most ticket machines and JR offices accept major credit cards. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) also work for most local trains and can be topped up with cards or cash.

How to Book Train Tickets in Japan

Book JR Pass online before arrival for unlimited travel on most trains. For individual tickets, use ticket machines at stations (English available) or book reserved seats through JR offices. Hyperdia or Google Maps work for route planning.

Decide between JR Pass or individual tickets. If taking 2+ long-distance trips, buy a 7-day JR Pass for $279 online before you travel. For city travel only, skip the pass and buy individual tickets.
Plan your routes. Use Hyperdia.com or Google Maps to check train times and transfers. Note which trains require reservations (most shinkansen) vs. those that don't (local trains).
Book reserved seats if needed. Visit any JR ticket office (midori no madoguchi) with your JR Pass or cash/card for individual tickets. Show your route on your phone. For popular routes like Tokyo-Kyoto, book 1-2 days ahead.
Use ticket machines for non-reserved travel. At any station, find the ticket machines (usually near gates). Press English button, select destination from map or type station name, pay with cash or IC card. Keep ticket until you exit.
Get through the gates. Insert paper ticket into gate slot (it pops out the top) or tap IC card. With JR Pass, show it to station staff at the manned gate beside the automatic gates.

Can I buy JR Pass after arriving in Japan?: Yes, but it costs about 20% more. Buy online before travel and exchange your voucher at major stations or airports in Japan.
Do I need reservations for all shinkansen trains?: No. Most shinkansen have non-reserved cars (usually cars 1-3). You can board without reservations but might have to stand during busy times.
What if ticket machines don't have English?: Look for machines with a small English flag sticker or ask station staff to point you to English-capable machines. Most major stations have them.
Can I use credit cards for train tickets?: Yes, most ticket machines and JR offices accept major credit cards. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) also work for most local trains and can be topped up with cards or cash.