Japan Train Secrets REVEALED! Use IC Cards & JR Pass Like a Pro

Japan Train Secrets REVEALED! Use IC Cards & JR Pass Like a Pro

Japanese railways are 
complicated…but really?
  Hello to everyone planning a train trip in Japan!
Have you ever worried that Japanese trains are complicated and you might get lost?
Don’t worry! Watch this video until   the end and you’ll be able to use Japan’s 
trains perfectly. This system may seem complicated at first glance, but it’s actually 
the most efficient and accurate in the world.   This complete guide covers everything you 
need to know to travel by train in Japan, from basic usage to advanced techniques and 
how to make the most of the Shinkansen and JR   Pass. It’s divided into chapters, so you can 
just read the parts you want to know about. First, let’s explain each chapter.
Chapter 1: About Japan’s Railway System
  This provides an overview of JR, private 
railways, subways, and more. There’s no need to memorize everything, so you can finish quickly.
Chapter 2: A Complete Guide to Mastering IC Cards This is the most important chapter for your 
stay in Japan. It covers not only how to use   the card, but also things that often confuse 
foreign tourists and how to get a refund. Chapter 3: Traveling with Google Maps
We’ll take you on a journey from Haneda   Airport to Asakusa, using Google Maps 
as our guide. By following this guide, first-time visitors will be able to easily 
navigate transfers between JR lines and subways. Chapter 4: A Complete Guide to the Shinkansen
We’ll explain the different types of Shinkansen and key things you need to know. Some tickets 
require advance reservations, so be careful.
  Chapter 5: A Complete Guide to Using the JR Pass
Where and when should you buy a JR Pass? Who shouldn’t buy one? We’ll explain in detail, 
starting with the system and price plans.
  Chapter 6: City Passes and Discount Tickets
We’ll introduce one-day passes available in each city. This doesn’t mean you should 
just buy one blindly, so we’ll calculate   the actual costs and explain.
Chapter 7: Etiquette and Safe Use There’s surely no one who comes to 
Japan who doesn’t use the train.   I highly recommend checking it out.
Now, let’s begin the explanation! Chapter 1 – “A Complete Guide 
to Japan’s Railway System”
  Classification of Japanese Railway Companies
Japanese railways can be broadly divided into three categories.
There are many different companies and systems,   but there’s no need to remember them all.
The important thing is that all of these railways can be used with a single IC card, 
and there are inter-rail connections at many   stations. For example, the Tokyu Toyoko 
Line runs directly from Yokohama to the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, and further to 
the Seibu Ikebukuro Line and Tobu Tojo Line. IC cards, which can be used not only for 
transportation but also for shopping,   are essential during your stay in Japan 
and we’ll explain them in more detail in the next chapter.
Chapter 2 – “Complete Guide to   Mastering IC Cards”
Basic IC Card Knowledge This is a very important chapter for traveling in 
Japan. It explains not only how to use IC cards, but also important points to note and refund 
procedures. Be sure to read this chapter.
  The most convenient way to travel by train 
in Japan is with an IC card. This is an electronic money card that eliminates the hassle 
of buying tickets and allows for smooth travel.
  In addition to public transportation, IC cards can 
also be used to pay at the following locations: Convenience stores (7-Eleven, 
Lawson, FamilyMart, etc.)
  Station and surrounding shops
Vending machines (for drinks, etc.) Some restaurants and cafes
Taxis (available in most major cities)
  Coin lockers
Some tourist facilities Drugstores
Supermarkets
  Not having to carry coins is a 
major benefit for travelers. Major Types of IC Cards
  While there are various types depending 
on the region, they are interoperable, so one card is sufficient for most 
public transportation nationwide.
  Kanto Region:
Suica: Issued by JR East. Characterized by a penguin logo
PASMO: Issued by Tokyo Metro and other private railways
Kansai Region:
  ICOCA: Issued by JR West
PiTaPa: Issued by Kansai private railways   (postpay)
Other Regions: TOICA: JR Central area
manaca: Nagoya subway and private railways SUGOCA: JR Kyushu area
nimoca: Kyushu private railways Hayakaken: Fukuoka Municipal Subway
Kitaca: JR Hokkaido area
  The basic functions are the same, so it 
doesn’t matter which card you choose. The only difference between Suica and PASMO is the 
issuing company, not the range of use. Special IC Card for Travelers: Welcome Suica
There is a card called Welcome Suica that is often mistakenly purchased by travelers to 
Japan, but there is no need to purchase it.
  Please note that it is valid for 28 days, and 
refunds are not available even if there is a balance remaining at the end of use. (Refunds for 
other cards will be explained later.) How to Purchase an IC Card
You can easily purchase   one at a station ticket machine.
Select “English” or another language on the multilingual ticket machine.
Select “Purchase a new Suica / PASMO.”
  Enter your name, date of birth, and phone number.
Pay a ¥500 deposit plus the amount you’re charging (minimum ¥1,000).
The card will be issued.
  All you need is a ¥500 deposit plus 
the amount you’re charging. Purchases are accepted with cash only.
Entering your name, date of birth,   and phone number is useful for identifying your 
card if you lose it. If you don’t want to bother with this process, selecting an anonymous 
card will make the process smoother.
  About Child IC Cards
Children under 11 years old are eligible for child fares (half the adult fare). To 
do this, you’ll need a child IC card.
  How to Purchase a Child’s Suica / PASMO Card:
Cannot be purchased at ticket vending machines Must be purchased at a station ticket 
counter (such as a Midori no Madoguchi) Proof of age is required, such as a passport.
Child fares apply until the child’s 12th birthday Once the child turns 12, they 
must be upgraded to an adult card
  Children’s IC cards are distinguished from 
adult cards by a green mark. If visiting Japan with your family, we recommend 
purchasing one for each child.
  About Mobile Suica / PASMO
If you log in with your Japanese Apple ID, you can add your Suica or ICOCA card to 
your iPhone’s Wallet and use it. Welcome   Suica can also be used with the mobile 
app. Using the app extends the validity period from the usual 28 days to 180 days.
However, please note that this may not work if you are using your own country’s Apple ID.
Therefore, we recommend trying to download the   app in your home country before you travel to 
see if it works for you. Some other channels’ videos show this method, but please note 
that it may not apply to all travelers.
  As such, due to Apple ID restrictions, some 
transportation services that are used or booked via the app may not be available.
How to Recharge Your IC Card
  If your balance is low, you can charge it at a 
station ticket machine or convenience store. Charging at a Ticket Machine:
Tap your IC card on the machine
  Select “Charge”
Select the amount Insert money
Charging at a Convenience Store:
  Just say “Suica charge please” at the 
register at 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, Ministop, NEWDAYS, or Daily Yamazaki, and 
tell them the amount you’d like to charge.
  Charging at Seven Bank ATMs is only available 
to app users, such as Mobile Suica. Physical Suica and ICOCA cards are not supported, 
so be careful not to make a mistake.
  TIPS: The IC card limit is 20,000 yen, and 
credit cards are not accepted. Please note that cash charges are in 1,000 yen increments.
For information on advantageous currency exchange stores, please check this video.
Basic Usage
  When entering the ticket gate: Touch the 
card on the IC mark on the ticket gate. When you exit, do the same, and 
the fare will be automatically   calculated and deducted from your balance.
You can check your fare and balance on the ticket gate display. If your balance is 
insufficient, you will not be able to   exit the ticket gate. Please charge it at the 
ticket machine next to the ticket gate. IC Card Expiration Date and Important Notes
Suica Expiration Date:
  10 years from the date of last use.
It will automatically expire if not used for 10 years.
However, even after expiration, you can   reactivate your card at the station counter. And 
the remaining balance will still be there. Important Notes:
One card required per person: IC cards cannot   be borrowed, lent, or shared. Always use the card 
of the person passing through the ticket gate. Children’s fares are for children only: 
Children under 12 must have a child’s IC card.
  Do not use multiple cards: If you use multiple 
IC cards in your wallet while using the ticket gate, an error will occur.
Be careful of insufficient balance:   Even if you enter the ticket gate without 
any problems, the gate may close due to insufficient balance when you exit.
Do not use magnetic cards: IC cards and   paper tickets cannot be used at the same time.
Store your card flat: Bending it or storing it next to a cell phone may cause malfunctions.
Do not use multiple IC cards at the same time: Using multiple IC cards on top of each 
other will result in a reading error.
  Areas where IC cards cannot be used
Although we mentioned that IC cards can be used nationwide, they actually 
cannot be used in some areas:
  Main areas where they cannot be used:
Kumamoto City Tram Hakodate City Tram in Hokkaido
Parts of the Toyama Chiho Railway Some local private railways
Some bus routes
  In these areas, tickets must be purchased with 
cash. However, they can be used at JR stations without any problems.
About IC Card Refunds
  Important Refund Rules: Refunds can 
only be made at the issuing company. Suica: Refunds can only be made at JR East 
stations. Welcome Suica is not eligible. ICOCA: Refunds can only be 
made at JR West stations.
  PASMO: Refunds can only be made at Tokyo Metro, 
Toei Subway, and private railway stations. In other words, if you purchase a Suica in 
Tokyo, you cannot get a refund in Osaka or   Kyoto. Refunds are only available at JR East 
stations and airports that issued the card. Refund Procedure:
Go to the station ticket counter
  Present your IC card and passport 
and say “Please refund me” You will be refunded the remaining 
balance plus a 500 yen deposit.
  A 220 yen handling fee will be deducted (no fee 
if the remaining balance is less than 220 yen). TIPS: For example, if you purchase a Suica 
upon arriving at Haneda and depart via Kansai International Airport, you will not be eligible 
for a refund. In this case, we recommend using up the remaining balance by shopping at the airport. 
Most stores at the airport accept IC cards. If you have any questions, such as “What 
happens to me? Which IC card should I buy?”,   please ask in the comments section.
You can also travel comfortably on long-distance conventional trains with Suica.
On these long-distance conventional trains,   you can use your transportation IC card to 
access comfortable seats called Green Cars. Purchase your ticket for the relevant 
section at the ticket machine on   the platform. After boarding, you’ll 
find an empty seat with a red light; simply touch the IC card you used to purchase your 
ticket there. There are also in-train vendors,   so you can purchase simple snacks and drinks, 
making it a convenient experience. Chapter 3 – “Actually Starting Your Journey”
Preparing the Necessary Apps
  There are now many apps available for traveling 
in Japan, but which ones do you really need? I’ve tried many, but I think Google 
Maps is sufficient. It clearly explains   transfer information and stops without unnecessary 
information. Even if you don’t know where you are, it will guide you to your destination from 
your current location. It also keeps you up   to date on delays and other information, and 
you can pin and manage places you want to go. If you also use other apps, it can become 
complicated to manage your travel plans.
  Many apps are actually difficult to use, 
or are designed to trick you into buying other tickets. Also, some apps may not be 
available for download depending on your   country. It would be a waste to be confused 
by these and end up spending extra money. To avoid such confusion, we will exclude 
services that require you to download an   app in Japan. Of course, we guarantee that 
you will still be able to travel smoothly. Just to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to 
download offline maps of the area you’re visiting. This way, you can check your current location 
even if you lose internet connection.
  Let’s use Google Maps for detailed instructions. Enter your departure and 
destination. In this case,   we’ll use Sensoji. If your starting point is your 
current location, you can just leave it as is. Tap “Directions” and select a train.
You can select your departure and arrival   times. If you’re leaving now, 
you can just leave it as it is. Select the most appropriate 
route from the displayed options,   taking into account travel time and transfers.
(Travel time and cost will also be displayed, so choose based on your situation. The top 
option is recommended, so if you don’t have   a preference, just follow that.)
Tap “Details” to see the previous and next timetables, stops along the way, 
boarding platform, and even the number   and exit number.
Let’s get started! Example: From Haneda Airport 
Station to Sensoji Temple
  We’ll also explain transfers, so we’ll follow this 
route this time (select Monorail → JR → Subway). Tokyo has many JR and subway lines, so you’ll 
need to distinguish them by their markings.
  A square with a J and two other 
letters indicates JR, while a circle with a single letter indicates subway.
(Show screenshot) For example, a yellow-green   square with JY is the JR Yamanote Line, and 
an orange circle with G is the Ginza Line. Tap your IC card at the ticket gate 
(the balance will be displayed).
  Go to the platform indicated on the display. 
In this case, it’s Platform 2. And double-check the direction just in case.
Get on the arriving train.
  Transfer at Hamamatsucho Station 
(check the yellow guide map above). Go to the indicated platform and check 
the line information next to the stairs.
  Get off and exit the ticket gate. If the 
station is large, it can be difficult to find the ticket gate. If the guide above lists 
an exit or transfer line, check that and exit. Board the train while paying the same attention.
Get off and exit through the nearest   exit for your destination.
Continue traveling and arrive. If you can’t transfer properly, there’s no need to 
panic; the next train will arrive soon. Just to be safe, plan your schedule so you arrive with plenty 
of time to spare, even if you get lost. Transfer Tips
Let’s review transfer tips again. Transfer   information is often displayed on yellow signs, 
which indicate the color and direction of the line you’ll be transferring to. Follow the signs and 
you’ll be directed to the correct platform.
  Pay particular attention to the following:
Check your direction: It’s important not just to “take the line you want to take,” but also 
to check whether it’s going to “A” or “B.”
  Check the train type: There are various types, 
such as “Local,” “Rapid,” and “Express,” and they stop at different stations. Make sure the train 
you board doesn’t stop at your desired station.
  Platform number: Even within the same line, 
platforms vary depending on the direction. Check your exit: To ensure a smooth 
transfer or transfer, check the   signs located throughout the station.
You can also check your destination before heading home.
TIPS!!
  I once met someone who was lost. They wanted 
to take the JR Chuo Line at Shinjuku Station, but didn’t know where to go. On Google Maps, 
the JC symbol is displayed in an orange square, so they knew they should just look for the orange 
sign, but they couldn’t find it and got lost.
  However, there’s a catch.
Only subway lines are color-coded, as shown on signs outside stations. To find a JR station, 
you’ll need to look for “JR Line” signs and then, once inside, look for the platform of that color.
This is because subway lines have different   boarding areas, but JR lines have all their 
platforms lined up next to each other. Please be careful.
Times to avoid
  Morning rush hour (7:30 AM – 9:00 AM):
Extremely crowded. On the Yamanote, Chuo, and Sobu lines, 
it’s so crowded you won’t be able to move. If you’re sightseeing, we strongly 
recommend avoiding this time.
  Evening rush hour (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM):
Although not as crowded as the morning rush hour, it’s still crowded.
On Friday nights in particular,   congestion continues until late.
Important note about the last train: Service on many lines ends 
between midnight and 1 AM.
  The time of the last train varies 
depending on the line and station. If you miss the last train, you’ll have 
to take a taxi, which can be expensive.
  Take particular care if staying 
in a suburban hotel. Chapter 4 – “Complete Guide to the Shinkansen”
Shinkansen Basics
  The Shinkansen is Japan’s world-renowned 
high-speed rail system, operating at a maximum speed of 320 km/h. Since the opening 
of the Tokaido Shinkansen in 1964, there have been no fatal accidents due to derailment 
or collision, making it one of the safest   train systems in the world.
Shinkansen Routes and Services Tokaido Shinkansen (operated by JR Central):
Section: Tokyo to Shin-Osaka
  Major Stops: Tokyo, Shinagawa, 
Shin-Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka
  Train Types: Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama
Sanyo Shinkansen (operated by JR West): Section: Shin-Osaka to Hakata
Major Stops: Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe,   Okayama, Hiroshima, Hakata
Train Types: Nozomi, Hikari,   Kodama, Sakura, Mizuho
Tohoku Shinkansen   (operated by JR East) :
Section: Tokyo to Shin-Aomori
  Major stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, 
Sendai, Morioka, Shin-Aomori
  Train types: “Hayabusa,” “Yamabiko,” “Nasuno”
Hokkaido Shinkansen   (operated by JR Hokkaido):
Section: Shin-Aomori to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Train type: “Hayabusa”
Joetsu Shinkansen   (operated by JR East):
Section: Tokyo to Niigata
  Train types: “Toki,” “Tanigawa”
Hokuriku Shinkansen (operated by JR East and JR West):
Section: Tokyo to Kanazawa
  Train type: Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Tsurugi
Kyushu Shinkansen   (operated by JR Kyushu):
Section: Hakata to Kagoshima-Chuo Train Type: Mizuho, Sakura, Tsubame
While there are different companies running   the lines, it doesn’t really 
matter for your journey.
  Seat Type and Class
Regular Car Unreserved Seats:
Cheapest
  No seat reservation, sit in any available seat
May have to stand during peak hours
  Car Number: 1-3 (on the Tokaido Shinkansen)
Regular Car Reserved Seats:
  Guaranteed seat
Approximately 530   yen more expensive than unreserved seats
Car Number: 4-16 Car No. (Tokaido Shinkansen)
  Green Car:
Seat width and recline angle are wide. Approximately 4,000-5,000 yen more 
expensive than a regular reserved seat.
  Car Number: Cars 8-9 (Tokaido Shinkansen)
Equipped with footrests,   reading lights, and power outlets.
Gran Class (Tohoku, Hokkaido, Joetsu,   and Hokuriku Shinkansen only):
Highest class Includes snack and drink service
Leather seats and personal monitors.
  How to Reservation for Shinkansen
1. Reservation at the   Midori no Madoguchi (Ticket Office)
2. Reservation at the Ticket Vending Machine: Both accept credit cards. If you don’t have a 
JR PASS, the ticket machine is more convenient because it’s smoother and allows you to 
choose your preferred seat. We’ll explain   what the JR Pass is later.
Important Luggage Rules Type of Luggage:
Regular Luggage: 160cm or less in total   length and width: Carry-on luggage is allowed.
Oversized Luggage: 160cm-250cm in total length and width: Reservation required, select a seat with an 
oversized luggage area. A 1,000 yen handling fee applies if you do not make a reservation.
Carry-on luggage prohibited: Items with a   total of three dimensions exceeding 
250 cm or weighing over 30 kg. Luggage storage:
Shelves above seats (light luggage only)
  Space behind seats
Footspace in the front and back rows of the car Deck (aisle between cars)
Stroller users:
  No reservation is required or 
additional fees apply for strollers. Please fold the stroller and 
place your baby on your lap.
  If you would like more space, we recommend 
reserving a seat with an oversized luggage area. The front seats of the car have more legroom 
because there are no seats in front of them,   making them convenient for placing strollers.
We recommend reserving a reserved seat, as unreserved seats may be 
unavailable during busy times.
  Wi-Fi on Shinkansen Trains
Available Lines: Tokaido Shinkansen: Wi-Fi available on all cars
Sanyo Shinkansen: Wi-Fi available on all cars Tohoku Shinkansen: Wi-Fi 
available on some cars only
  Other Lines: Expanding availability gradually
Wi-Fi Features: Speed: Slower than other Wi-Fi services in Japan
Connection: Unstable in tunnel sections How to Use: Free, but registration required
Important: Due to slow speeds, it is recommended to complete important tasks in advance
If you want a smooth internet experience   on the Shinkansen, watch this video, which 
tests the speeds of all 17 lines, to choose the best SIM card for you.
Notes for Shinkansen Travel
  Before Boarding:
If you’re departing from Tokyo or Shin-Osaka, there are 
multiple platforms for the same direction,   which can be confusing. It’s best to arrive 
at the station 20 minutes before departure. Check the platform number and the number on 
the staircase to determine which staircase   is closest to your car.
Also, check the car number information displayed on the platform.
*The ride is short, so if you’re pressed for time,   just get on the Shinkansen first.
While on board: Refrain from making phone calls on 
the train and please use headphones   when using your smartphone or other 
devices. Make calls on the deck. Eating is fine, but please avoid 
fast food and other smelly foods.
  When reclining your seat, it’s a good idea to 
let the person behind you know what to do. Please take your trash with you or 
dispose of it in the trash cans at   the entrances and exits of each car. There 
are also trash cans on the platform. When disembarking:
Due to the short stop time, it’s best   to be ready early once the announcement is made. 
While it’s said that lost items are easily found in Japan, Shinkansen trains travel long distances, 
so there’s no guarantee they’ll be returned while you’re still in Japan. Be sure to check to 
make sure you haven’t left anything behind.
  Also, return your seat to its original 
position and make sure not to leave any trash in the mesh pockets in front of your seat. 
These are ways to be considerate of others.
  Shinkansen Ekiben Culture
Eating on board the Shinkansen is common, and there’s a culture of “ekiben” (bento box).
While there are onboard sales, the selection   is limited, so we recommend purchasing 
at the station. Allow plenty of time to find a bento box you like at the station.
Using the onboard sales for drinks and light   meals is also a great experience. I recommend 
vanilla ice cream. Enjoy a luxurious time while taking in the scenery.
Shinkansen Tips
  Here are some tips for choosing your seat.
If you’re traveling between Tokyo and Nagoya, you can see Mt. Fuji. If you choose seats E 
or D, you can enjoy the view from your seat. Many passengers get on and off at stations, 
and people often move around the car even   while the train is moving. If you want to 
relax, it’s best to choose a window seat. If you’re a group of four, reserve seats in 
the second row, or if you’re a group of six,   reserve seats in the third row. You can rotate 
your seats and sit facing each other. Everyone can enjoy the experience, but please be careful 
not to get too excited and disturb others. Relationship between the Shinkansen and JR Pass
As we’ll explain in more detail later, JR Passes do not apply to Nozomi and Mizuho trains. These 
are the fastest trains, but the Hikari and Sakura trains are also fast enough, with a difference 
in travel time of around 30 minutes. Chapter 5 – “Complete Guide to Using the JR Pass”
What is the JR Pass?
  The Japan Rail Pass, also known as the JR Pass, is 
a special ticket exclusively for foreign tourists, offering unlimited travel on JR lines for 
a set period of time. Launched in 1981, it’s the ultimate tool for enjoying 
Japan’s rail travel economically.
  Not everyone should use it, and some 
people will lose out. Be sure to understand the system and pricing before 
deciding whether or not to use it.
  JR Pass Types and Prices
National JR Pass: 7 Days: ¥50,000 for Standard 
Car, ¥70,000 for Green Car
  14 Days: ¥80,000 for Standard 
Car, ¥110,000 for Green Car 21 Days: ¥100,000 for Standard 
Car, ¥140,000 for Green Car Transportation Valid with a JR Pass
Valid:
  JR Line Local, Rapid, and Express Trains
Shinkansen (Excluding Nozomi and Mizuho)
  JR Buses (Including Expressway Buses)
Miyajima Ferry (Operated by JR West)
  Invalid:
Shinkansen “Nozomi” and “Mizuho” Private Railways (Tokyu, Odakyu, Hankyu, etc.)
Subway (Tokyo Metro, Osaka Metro, etc.)
  Private Car Compartments on 
Some Limited Express Trains
  Non-JR Buses and Ferries
If you think you might use the JR Pass,   it’s a good idea to take a screenshot 
so you can check it later. How to Purchase a JR Pass
Purchase through Japan Rail Pass Reservation   and exchange for a JR Pass upon arrival in Japan.
You can also purchase your JR Pass directly at JR ticket counters at major stations in Japan, 
such as Narita Airport, Haneda Airport,   Kansai Airport, Tokyo Station, and Osaka Station, 
but it’s 10% cheaper to buy it overseas. You may also be able to purchase it 
through your local travel agency,   but the official website is the cheapest. 
I’ll include a link in the description, so please purchase it from there.
JR Pass Activation Procedure
  Present your Exchange Order 
and passport at the counter. Choose your start date — it has 
to be within 30 days of purchase.
  Receive your JR Pass with your photo.
Confirm your name and passport number. How to Use the JR Pass
How to Pass Through the Ticket Gate:
  Present your JR Pass at the manned ticket gate 
and have the station attendant stamp it. Some of the latest JR Passes can be used through 
automatic ticket gates. Follow local directions when using the pass.
Reserved Seat Reservations
  Reservations are available free of 
charge at the Midori ticket counter. Shinkansen reservations are also 
available at no additional charge.
  We recommend booking early during peak periods.
Conditions for a JR Pass to be a good deal So, how many people do you need to 
purchase one to get a good deal?
  First of all, a round trip from 
Tokyo to Osaka costs about 28,000 yen for a reserved seat on the Nozomi train.
A 7-day JR Pass costs 29,650 yen, so it’s a good deal for those who are planning to add another 
destination, such as Hiroshima or Kanazawa.
  At first glance, it may seem like a good 
deal for those who also plan to visit Kyoto, but Kyoto and Osaka are so close that you can get 
there in about 30 minutes even on a local train. Since no Japanese people use the Shinkansen 
on this section, those stopping off in Kyoto   don’t need a JR Pass.
Who is the JR Pass for? Let’s summarize the important people who 
are and aren’t suitable for the JR Pass.
  The JR Pass is suitable for
Planning to visit multiple cities
  Using the Shinkansen more than twice
Traveling widely for a stay of 7 days or more Those who are not suitable for
Staying only in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto Looking to save time by using 
the Nozomi or Mizuho trains
  Staying for 3 days or less
If you’re wondering, “What should I do?”, please leave a question in the 
comments section and we’ll answer!
  Points to Note When Using the JR Pass
Finally, here are some points to note: Only the passholder can use it: Strict 
checking is required, with a photo attached
  No replacement if lost: Please 
keep it safe and secure Refund Restrictions: Refunds are only available 
for unused passes within the expiration date, with a processing fee. Please 
check carefully before purchasing
  Make active use of reserved seats: Enjoy safe 
and comfortable travel at no additional charge Make use of JR buses: Buses 
are included in local travel
  Sightseeing in Miyajima: Passes can also be used 
for ferries to Miyajima, so don’t forget if you’re going to Hiroshima
Chapter 6 – “City Round-Trip   Tickets and Discount Tickets”
First, we’ll introduce some of the most common passes, and then we’ll explain the 
important things you should know, including if   they’re actually a good deal.
Tokyo Round-Trip Tickets Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket:
Price: ¥700 Usability: All Tokyo Metro Lines
Feature: Great for efficiently   exploring central Tokyo
The ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first   use, not just for a single calendar day. 48-hour 
and 72-hour tickets are also available.
  Toei Marugoto Kippu:
Price: ¥700
  Usability: Toei Subway, Toei 
Bus, Toden Arakawa Line
  Feature: Convenient for sightseeing 
in the downtown area
  Tokyo Metro/Toei Subway One-Day Pass:
Price: ¥900 Usability: All Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway Lines
Feature: Perfect for visiting most of Tokyo’s   major tourist spots
Tokyo Free   Ticket:
Price: ¥1,600
  Usability: Tokyo Metro, Toei 
Subway, JR lines, and Toei Bus
  Feature: Widest coverage
Kansai Round-Trip Tickets Osaka Enjoy Eco Card:
Price: ¥820 on weekdays,   ¥600 on weekends and holidays
Usability: Osaka Metro
  Feature: Ideal for getting around Osaka City
Osaka Amazing Pass: Price: 1-day pass ¥3,500, 2-day pass ¥5,000
Usability: Osaka Metro, Osaka City Bus,   and some private railways
Feature: Free admission to approximately 40 tourist attractions
Kyoto Subway/Bus One-Day Pass
  Price: ¥1,100
Usability: Kyoto Bus, Keihan   Bus, Kyoto Municipal Subway, and JR
Features: A staple of Kyoto sightseeing
  How to Purchase and Important Notes
Purchase Locations: At railway station counters
Automatic ticket vending machines (multilingual)
  Tourist Information Centers
Some hotels Important Notes When 
Purchasing an Amazing Pass
  1. Carefully Check the Covered Areas and Routes
Among the Amazing Passes, there are designated areas, so make sure the route 
covers your desired destination.
  In particular, in Tokyo, Tokyo Metro 
and Toei Subway are separate operators, so it’s important to check in advance which 
route is closest to your destination.
  2. Is it really a good deal? 
Simulating the Number of Rides For example, Tokyo Metro fares start at ¥180 
per trip, Toei Subway at ¥170, and JR at ¥146. The Toei Marugoto Kippu or Toei Marugoto Ticket 
costs ¥700 per day, but you need at least four rides to get your money’s worth.
3. Thinking about “getting your money’s   worth” can actually restrict your actions.
If you buy a pass like this, you might end up changing your plans or forcing yourself to use 
a specific line in an effort to use it all up.
  Since it’s a special trip, it’s better to be free 
to go wherever you want, which will reduce stress and increase your satisfaction.
Recommended Sightseeing Tickets
  On the other hand, the Osaka Amazing Pass is 
extremely cost-effective and highly recommended. It includes admission to popular tourist 
spots like Osaka Castle (¥1,200),   Umeda Sky Building (¥2,000), and a river 
cruise (¥2,000), making it a great deal that includes transportation and sightseeing.
I’ve included links in the description,   so if you’re considering visiting Osaka, 
be sure to check it out. Chapter 7 – “Manners and Safe Travels”
Safety on the Platform:
  Stand behind the yellow 
line: Especially important Board only after the train 
has come to a complete stop
  Let passengers getting off first
Never rush onto the train Manners on the Train
The following manners are   common on Japanese trains:
1. Stay Quiet: Avoid loud conversations
Hush is especially important   during the morning rush hour
Keep laughter to a minimum 2. Using the Phone:
It is good manners to   avoid talking on the phone on the train
In an emergency, move to the deck (the space between cars) if possible 
and speak in a low voice.
  Set your phone to silent mode.
3. Music and videos: Always use headphones.
Be careful of sound leakage.
  The same goes for game sounds.
4. Eating and drinking: Shinkansen and long-distance trains: No 
problem, but no strong-smelling food.
  Short-distance trains in urban 
areas: Drink in moderation. Alcohol: Common on Shinkansen, 
avoided on commuter trains.
  Staying hydrated is fine.
5. Luggage handling: When crowded, keep large luggage 
at your feet or on a rack.
  Carry a backpack in front of you.
Be considerate to other passengers. 6. Priority seating rules:
Give up your seat to elderly people,   people with disabilities, pregnant 
women, and people with small children. When not crowded, it’s okay for 
regular passengers to sit. This video is a complete guide to Japan’s 
railways. If you have a question like,   ‘What should I do in my specific 
situation?’ Please leave a comment, and we’ll do our best to answer. 
Also, if you found this video helpful,   please leave a comment to let us know. It would 
be a great encouragement for us in the future.

Japanese railways may seem complicated at first glance, but they are actually one of the most efficient and accurate systems in the world. This complete guide covers everything you need to know for train travel in Japan, from how to use IC cards and Google Maps for transfers to making the most of the Shinkansen and the JR Pass. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to watch until the end.

0:00 Introduction
1:58 Chap.1 About Japan’s Railway System
2:39 Chap.2 A Complete Guide to Mastering IC Cards
5:20 How to Purchase IC Card
7:17 How to Recharge Your IC Card
11:37 Chap.3 Traveling with Google Maps
16:40 Chap.4 A Complete Guide to the Shinkansen
22:23 Chap.5 A Complete Guide to Using the JR Pass
26:15 Chap.6 City Passes and Discount Tickets
28:49 Chap.7 Etiquette and Safe Use

📊 What You’ll Learn
✅How to purchase, use, and get refunds for IC cards.
✅How to make smooth transfers using Google Maps.
✅Types of Shinkansen trains, seating, and luggage rules.
✅Types of JR Passes, how to use them, and conditions for getting the best value.
✅How to choose and use advantageous city passes.
✅Etiquette and safe travel on Japanese railways.

🔗 Links
🌐We Tested Japan’s Internet for Tourists: SIM, eSIM, and Pocket WiFi

🌐How to Get Japanese Yen: Best Exchange Rates in Tokyo for Tourists

🌐 JR Pass Official Site
https://www.japanrailpass-reservation.net/
🌐 Osaka Amazing Pass
https://osaka-amazing-pass.com/en/howto_about_1day.html?amazingPass#ctabs

📍 Locations Covered
Tokyo, Kanagawa, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakata, Hokkaido, Nagoya, and more.

🌎 Plan a Stress-Free Trip to Japan
Looking for personalized support for your Japan adventure?
We offer premium travel services including:
✅ Custom travel planning via Zoom (before arrival)
✅ Local WhatsApp assistance during your trip
✅ Private guided tours across Japan by a certified tour manager

🔗 All Socials & Info
https://lit.link/japanquest

🧭 About This Channel
Our team of professional, licensed Japanese guides help international travelers get the most out of their trip to Japan with trusted tips, real-life experiences, and local knowledge.
We will ensure a stress-free and unforgettable experience for families and first-time visitors to Japan.

🔖 Hashtags
#JapanTravel #JapaneseRailways #Shinkansen #JRPass #ICCard #TokyoTourism #OsakaTourism #KyotoTourism #JapanTravelGuide

💬 Let’s Connect
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