Important Info & Rules for Japan Rail Pass

Who is eligible to purchase the JAPAN RAIL PASS?

You are a foreign tourist visiting Japan from abroad for sightseeing purposes under the "Temporary Visitor" entry status. According to Japanese immigration law, the "Temporary Visitor" entry status allows a stay of up to 90 days in Japan for tourism. When entering Japan, if you apply for a stay for tourism, the immigration officer will stamp your passport as a "Temporary Visitor" as shown below. To receive or use the JAPAN RAIL PASS, your passport must have this stamp. Please note that a person with dual nationality who enters Japan using their Japanese passport will not be able to exchange their voucher by presenting an unstamped non-Japanese passport.

Please Note:

If you enter Japan under any other official status, such as "Trainee," "Entertainer," or with a "Re-entry Permit," you cannot exchange your voucher for a JAPAN RAIL PASS. Please note that according to the strict interpretation of Japanese immigration law, the "Temporary Visitor" status differs even from other types of short-term stays.

Usage Restrictions:

The JAPAN RAIL PASS is not valid for "NOZOMI" and "MIZUHO" trains (pass holders must use "HIKARI" or "KODAMA" trains). If you wish to use the "NOZOMI" or "MIZUHO" service, you must pay the basic fare and limited express charge, as well as the First Class (Green Car) surcharge if using a First Class car. In this case, no discount applies with the JAPAN RAIL PASS.

How to exchange a voucher for an actual pass:

We will send you the exchange voucher by registered mail. Please bring it with you to Japan. It cannot be reissued if lost. Upon your arrival in Japan, your JR Pass exchange voucher can be exchanged for a JR Pass at most major stations, including both terminals of Tokyo Narita International Airport, the international terminal of Haneda Airport, and Osaka Kansai International Airport. JR Pass exchange vouchers are valid for 3 months from the date of issue, so you cannot order exchange vouchers more than 3 months before the date you plan to use them for the first time.

Refunds:

In the event of a cancellation, 10% of the ticket price will be deducted and the issuance fee will not be refunded. An administrative fee of CHF 20.- will also apply. You must return the exchange voucher to us in order to receive a refund.