The Japan Rail (JR) Pass offers tourists an economical and unlimited travel option on most train and bus routes operated by Japan Railways, including the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Specifically made for tourists who come to Japan for sightseeing, the JR Pass can be a cost-effective solution given the relatively high transportation costs in the country.
If you intend to visit multiple cities in a brief span, this pass can offer significant savings. So, in this guide, I will walk you through the process of purchasing and redeeming the JR Pass. Stay with me to the end!
First off, you can purchase the JR Pass voucher. You can purchase it while you are still in your home country. Here’s how you do it:
Start by deciding where you want to buy your JR Pass. It can be purchased directly from the official website, or through third-party platforms or apps.
My husband and I found it convenient to purchase ours via the Tiket.com app, but other options like Klook or Traveloka are also available.
Upon locating the “JR Pass” section in your chosen platform, select the package that fits your travel plans. Options include 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day durations.
Additionally, you can pick between the Ordinary Car or the more luxurious Green Car. Determine the number of passes you’ll need. In my case, I bought two because I traveled with my husband.
We opted for the 7-day Ordinary Car package, which was not only affordable but also suited our less-than-two-week vacation. Though it was considered a short stay, traveling between cities made the JR Pass worth the cost.
Once you’ve made your selections, provide your personal details accurately and proceed to payment. Different payment options like credit/debit cards, virtual accounts, etc., will be available based on the app or platform you’re using.
Upon payment completion, you’ll receive an E-ticket in your email. This E-ticket contains crucial details about JR Pass redemption.
Important note: Once your order gets confirmed, the platform (in my experience, Tiket.com) will contact you, often via WhatsApp, requesting passport photos of all travelers and a delivery address for the voucher
It takes up to 7 days for the JR Pass ticket voucher to be delivered to your address. So, make sure to purchase it at least a week in advance.
Let’s say you’re scheduled to fly to Japan on May 21. It’s impossible to buy the JR Pass just two days prior. Be sure to plan and make timely preparations.
After that, just wait for the JR Pass voucher to arrive at your doorstep. This voucher, known as the exchange order, is essential for obtaining the actual JR Pass in Japan and remains valid for 90 days from its issue date. Safeguard it until you travel!
Nah, kalau kamu sudah sampai di Jepang, ini saatnya kamu menukarkan exchange order tadi agar kamu segera memiliki JR Pass tersebut untuk digunakan. Simak cara penukarannya di bawah ini ya:
Upon arrival in Japan, visit a JR office to convert your exchange order into the actual JR Pass. Refer to this link for a list of JR office locations across Japan that accommodate online ticket pickups and exchange orders.
I personally went to the JR Narita Airport Terminal 1 office, which operates between 09:00 to 18:00 local time. While it’s often bustling with travelers, the efficient staff ensures a smooth process.
Inform the staff that you wish to redeem your exchange order for the JR Pass. Thankfully, most officers, especially those at airports and major stations, are proficient in English.
So, I did have a seamless communication with them. Along with your exchange order, you’ll need to present your passport.
Important Tip: Specify the date you’ll begin using the JR Pass. For instance, I arrived in Japan on May 21, yet I can choose to start the pass from May 25.
The staff will provide additional information, such as the importance of not losing the pass and ensuring usage within the selected duration (7-day, 14-day, or 21-day).
Once this process is complete, you’ll receive your JR Pass, which opens the door to unlimited travel across Japan’s scenic cities using shinkansen and other public trasnport options.
In conclusion, the JR Pass is a fantastic resource for travelers in Japan. I hope this guide simplifies the process for you. Look forward to more travel articles!
