Japan Travel : JR Pass

Japan by Japanese rail - JR, originally uploaded by Arne Kuilman.

Traveling around Japan is quite easy with train both in city (by local train or subway) and between city (by Hi-Speed train or Shinkansen) If you are going to Japan and plan your trip to visit many city or many stops you will need JR Pass!!!

Why JR Pass?
You can rind unlimited times with JR, the most coverage train system in Japan) Local train, Shinkansen and Bus.

Where to get JR Pass?
Issue your JR Ticket at your local travel agency. JR Pass MUST issued outside Japan only. You may need Passport and Japan Tourist Visa to buy a ticket.

And then?
When you arrive Japan, find the JR Ticket office, show the officer your ticket and inform them what is your first date you will use JR Pass. You can do it in advance or on the date you want to use. After issue your Ticket you will get a JR Pass Ticket (a fold card).

And how to use the JR Pass (fold card)?
You can not use JR Pass (fold card) to pass the normal gate. Try to find the special gate with you will see an officer who's going to check your JR Pass, show them the date on the card and you can now boarding at the train.

Shinkansen?
Yes! but please make sure that you are on the right train. There are 3 type of Shinkansen; Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama. Your JR Pass only available for Hikari and Kodama. If you are not booking the seat on Shinkansen, you need to board in the "Non-reserve" train's cabin only.

More information at http://www.japanrailpass.net
by Phanuphong Paothong.