Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
JRailPass.com FAQ

Do I need to receive the physical ticket?

Can I use a JR Pass email confirmation to receive my JR Pass in Japan?

The Japan Rail Pass cannot be emailed nor scanned or photographed.

Due to the strict regulations of the Japanese Government, to receive your Japan Rail Pass it is required to present the physical Exchange Order at any of the exchange offices in Japan.

To receive the actual JR Pass, you will be asked to provide the Exchange Order together with your passport. Emails, photographs, or scans of the Exchange Order are not accepted

Similarly, you cannot provide a copy of your passport. The staff at the exchange office need to see your actual passport along with the temporary visitor stamp/sticker inside.