A train ticket is a travel document valid for a single journey between two cities.

There are essentially two types of train tickets in Japan: tickets that come with a reservation and tickets that do not include a reservation, also known as open tickets. It`s important for you to understand their specifics, so let`s take a look.

In most cases and based on the route you`ll be taking, you will either get a ticket with a reservation included, an open ticket and a reservation, or an open ticket only. You do not have a choice in most instances, but it will help that you understand which kind of train ticket you`re getting since their condition of use is slightly different. Keep in mind that these different types of train tickets are usually not offered at the same time on the same route.

How long are train tickets valid for?
It depends if you have a ticket with a reservation or an open ticket.

Open tickets are valid for one month from the date of issue. The validity dates will be printed on the tickets. You can travel with an open ticket on any date within the validity period (however, remember: separate reservations may be necessary, depending on the route).

Tickets with reservations are only valid for the train for which the reservation was issued, on that specific travel date and time of travel.

Does my train ticket include a seat reservation?
It depends. Some tickets include a reservation, some tickets come with a separate, stand-alone reservation, and some tickets do not have reservations.

Please refer to the section Seat Reservations Explained for more information.

How can I tell whether or not I have a reserved seat onboard?
In Japan you need to visit the ticket offices to make a reservation on a specific train. Reservations cannot be made until you are in the country.

The train ticket indicates a seat number and car number.

Answers to frequently asked questions about choosing and booking your train ticket.

TRAVELING WITH A JAPAN RAIL PASS

In general, you`ll find that stations are centrally located and conveniently reached via public transportation and most airport-to-city links. In addition, we encourage you to visit our `Train Station` pages to view specific train station information and maps with approximate locations of many of the most popular train stations in Japan.

We advise travelers to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure. This allows you time to clear any security checks and locate the platform where your train will be departing. If you are departing from a larger train station (typically a city`s main station) and need to purchase tickets or activate your Japan Rail Pass prior to boarding, you will want to arrive even earlier to make sure you have enough time and to avoid doing a luggage-hauling sprint through the station.

When boarding the train, the train number and destinations are shown in Japanese and in Latin characters. On most of the platforms, there are floor markings that show where the train doors are located. The trains stop exactly at the door markings. It is a good idea to get in line to access the door as the trains do not stop for long on the platforms.

Most Japanese train stations provide a variety of services, including currency exchanges, tourist information desks, lockers for luggage, arrival/departure boards, restrooms, coffee shops, restaurants, and shops. Some larger stations in larger cities have Wi-Fi hotspots, lounges for business travelers, and restaurants and bars. We encourage you to visit our Train Station pages to view information about services at a specific station.

The Sunrise Seto and Sunrise Izumo are two long-distance overnight sleeper trains in Japan. They are operated by JR Central and JR West, the only remaining sleeper trains in the country.

Overnight trains are a great way to travel and make the most of daylight during your vacation. They allow you to spend a full day sightseeing in one city, travel through the night, and wake up refreshed and ready the next day in another city. And you not only save prime time for adventure but the money you would`ve spent on a hotel.

The amenities and services on board the Sunrise Seto/Izumo include shower rooms, toilets, vending machines, and small lounges. There are also private cabins on board ranked as single, and twin (bunks) rooms and `nobi-nobi` seats which are semi-private compartments.