JR News: Online sales of Japan Rail Pass to begin from 1 June 2020
The JR Group has announced that a new version of the nationwide Japan Rail Pass, offered jointly by six JR Group companies, will be available for sale online directly at japanrailpass-reservation.net/ from 1 June 2020.
When purchasing passes from this website, buyers will be eligible to make seat reservations online in advance. Passes purchased online via this website will also allow holders to utilize the automatic ticket gates, instead of the manned ticket gates as required by previous versions of the pass. Once in Japan, pass holders will also be able to make seat reservations from reserved seat ticket vending machines or station ticket offices (みどりの窓口 midori-no-madoguchi).
How to use the Japan Rail Pass purchased online. (Image credit: JR Group)
Service details
- The website will be available in English, Chinese (simplified/traditional), and Korean.
- The website will be available for use between 4:00 and 23:00 Japan Standard Time. Purchases can only be made during these times.
- The pass usage period must be started within a month after the date of purchase. For example, a pass purchased on 1 June 2020 can start its usage period between 1 June 2020 – 1 July 2020.
- Advance seat reservations can be made through this website after a Japan Rail Pass has been purchased.
Prices when purchased online
Eligibility
The online sale of Japan Rail Passes is only available for foreign tourists who have a passport issued by a country other than Japan, and are visiting Japan from abroad for sightseeing under the entry status of "Temporary Visitor."
Temporary Visitor stamp. (Image credit: JR Group)
Japanese nationals living abroad will not be able to purchase from this website, and should instead purchase a Japan Rail Pass from a JR-designated sales office or agent overseas.
Detailed information regarding eligibility can be found here.
Header image credit: JR Group
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