How to Book a Trip on Japan Railways

Japan has an extremely efficient railway system, making train travel easy and convenient. Most train stations feature modern technology and train accommodations are universally clean and comfortable. Book a trip on Japan Railways and begin your adventure.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Buy Tickets

1. Call the U.S. office of Japan Railways Group at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

2. Buy Japan Rail Passes (only available outside of Japan). Good for unlimited travel within Japan, these passes are available for 7, 14 or 21 consecutive days. A 7-day Ordinary Japan Rail Pass costs around $250 and prices go up from there. You can buy them from authorized agencies, for which you'll find a list on the Japan Railways Web site.

3. Book a Regional Pass if you plan on visiting just one area. You may purchase these passes either inside or outside Japan.

4. Buy individual tickets in Japan only. Buy them at the train station and at some travel agencies.

Pick a Seating Class

5. Book a ticket in an Ordinary car for economy seating. Seats are either reserved or unreserved. It's worth it to get a reserved seat in case the train is overbooked.

6. Book a trip in a Green car for first class seating. All seats are reserved and beverage service is included. Seats are more spacious and the cars feel less crowded.

7. Book Sleeper tickets if you are traveling overnight. Four berth compartments are most common, but one and two berth compartments are available on some trains. Some compartments have private toilets.

Choose the Right Train

8. Book a ticket on the Shinkansen, or "bullet train." Connecting major cities in Japan, these high-speed trains are safe and comfortable.

9. Book a trip on a Limited Express or Express trains for long-distance service not provided by the Shinkansen system. Limited Express trains make fewer stops than Express trains do.

10. Travel on the Rapid Local or Local trains for commuter service within cities. These trains run frequently and fares are inexpensive.

Tips & Warnings

• You may buy rail tickets at the international airports in Tokyo and Osaka.
• There are a variety of discounts available for individual rail tickets, including student discounts, senior discounts, youth discounts and other discounts based on destination.
• Long-distance reserved tickets go on sale one month in advance.
• Japan Railways accepts major credit cards, but not traveler's checks or foreign currency.