Do I need a Japan Rail Pass?

Not necessarily. Since the price increase in late 2023, the JR Pass is only cost-effective if you are doing multiple long-distance trips (e.g., Tokyo to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Tokyo) within 7 days. Otherwise, buying individual tickets is cheaper.

Can I buy tickets at the station?

Yes, but it is stressful. Use the English-language ticket machines at the station if you haven't booked ahead, but expect lines during rush hour.

What if my phone battery dies?

You will be stuck at the ticket gate. Always carry a power bank or have a physical backup credit card to purchase a paper ticket at a kiosk.

Booking Train Tickets in Japan

Use the SmartEX app for Shinkansen tickets to link your credit card and load tickets directly to your phone. For local lines, skip the booking process entirely and tap through the gates using a digital Suica or Pasmo card added to your smartphone's wallet.

Set up your IC card. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone (or Google Wallet on Android) and add a 'Suica' or 'Pasmo' transit card. You can load this with a credit card immediately. Use this for all local subways and JR local lines.
Download the SmartEX App. Download the 'SmartEX' app for Shinkansen (bullet train) travel. Create an account and register your credit card. This allows you to book tickets without standing in line at a machine.
Book Shinkansen tickets in advance. Open SmartEX, select your origin and destination stations, and choose your departure time. You can book up to 28 days in advance. Once booked, your QR code will appear in the app; scan it at the Shinkansen gate.
Validate your tickets at the gate. When entering the station, use your IC card for local trains. For the Shinkansen, hold your phone's QR code (from the SmartEX app) over the scanner on the gate. Keep your phone brightness high for easy reading.

Do I need a Japan Rail Pass?: Not necessarily. Since the price increase in late 2023, the JR Pass is only cost-effective if you are doing multiple long-distance trips (e.g., Tokyo to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Tokyo) within 7 days. Otherwise, buying individual tickets is cheaper.
Can I buy tickets at the station?: Yes, but it is stressful. Use the English-language ticket machines at the station if you haven't booked ahead, but expect lines during rush hour.
What if my phone battery dies?: You will be stuck at the ticket gate. Always carry a power bank or have a physical backup credit card to purchase a paper ticket at a kiosk.