Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
JRailPass.com FAQ

How can I buy the Japan Rail Pass? How do I activate the Japan Rail Pass?

How can I buy the Japan Rail Pass?

You can buy your Japan Rail Pass via this website in a few easy steps. Once your online order is confirmed, we send your Exchange Order (JR voucher) by post. You can receive it either home before you leave or have it delivered to your temporary residence in Japan.

The voucher needs to be exchanged for the actual rail pass once you are in Japan, within three (3) months of when the Exchange Order is issued.

How do I activate the Japan Rail Pass?

Once you arrive in Japan, go to any of the JR Exchange offices at airport terminals, train, or metro stations to make the exchange with your JR Exchange Order. You need your passport (with a Temporary visitor stamp/sticker in it) and the physical Exchange Order. Only the original document is accepted. You can then choose the first day you wish to start using it by telling the member of staff.

NOTE:
The activation date can be up to 30 consecutive days after the exchange process. You are not required to activate your Japan Rail Pass on the date of making the exchange