Seat reservations are free of charge for JAPAN RAIL PASS holders. You can reserve seats for Shinkansen and most Limited Express trains after you have exchanged your voucher for the actual pass in Japan.

Where to Make Reservations:

• Reserved Seat Ticket Machines: You can use the "Reserved Seat" ticket machines located at most JR stations. These machines have a multi-language interface (including English). Simply insert your JR Pass and follow the on-screen instructions to select your train and seat.
• JR Ticket Offices (Midori-no-madoguchi): You can visit any JR ticket office. Show your pass to the staff and tell them your destination and preferred travel time.
• JR Travel Service Centers: Located at major stations (like Tokyo, Shinjuku, or Osaka), these centers offer assistance in English for pass exchange and reservations.

Important Tips for Smooth Travel:

• Peak Seasons: During busy periods such as Golden Week (late April/early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year, trains fill up quickly. We highly recommend making all your reservations as soon as you activate your pass in Japan.
• Boarding: When using a reserved seat, you must carry both your JR Pass and the specific seat reservation ticket. Show both if requested by the conductor.
• Cancellations: If you decide not to take a train you have reserved, please return the seat ticket to a JR office so the seat can be released for other travelers.

Note: Seat reservations cannot be made online through JTB. They must be done in person after arriving in Japan.