Mastering Japan's Rail System and the JR Pass

Use the Japan Transit Planner (Jorudan) to calculate if the JR Pass price exceeds your point-to-point ticket costs, as it is often cheaper to pay as you go. Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for local subway rides and store it in your phone's digital wallet for seamless tapping.

1. Calculate break-even point. Use a JR Pass calculator online to input your itinerary. If your total long-distance train tickets are less than the cost of a 7-day or 14-day pass, buy individual tickets instead.
2. Activate your pass. If you buy a JR Pass, you will receive an Exchange Order. Take this, plus your passport, to a JR office at the airport or major train station to exchange it for the actual pass. Specify your start date; it does not have to be the day of arrival.
3. Load an IC Card. Add a Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA card to your Apple or Google Wallet. You can top it up using a credit card. Use this to tap in and out of local subways and JR lines that aren't covered by the pass.
4. Reserve seats. Even with a pass, you can reserve seats for free at ticket machines or JR offices. Do this at least 24 hours in advance for Shinkansen travel during holidays like Obon or New Year.

Can I use the JR Pass on subways?

No. The JR Pass only covers Japan Railways (JR) lines. Subways and private railways require an IC card or separate tickets.

Where can I store luggage on the Shinkansen?

Oversized luggage requires a pre-booked seat in the 'oversized baggage area' at the back of the car. Otherwise, keep bags in the overhead rack.