Japan rail, without the guesswork
Train
A ticket, a gate, or a transfer can look more complicated than it is. Start with the exact moment that has stopped you.
7 current guides · checked against official sources
Guides
Short answer first.
01Why Did the Shinkansen Machine Give Me Two Tickets?Why you may have two paper tickets—and exactly what to put into the gate.02Why Do I Need an Extra Ticket If I Already Tapped My IC Card?Why a Suica or PASMO can cover the base fare while a limited-express, reserved-seat or premium-service ticket is still needed.03Do I Need to Reserve Space for My Suitcase on the Shinkansen?The luggage-size rule that decides whether you need an oversized-baggage reservation.04Why Can’t I Use My IC Card for This Train Trip in Japan?Why a Suica, PASMO or other IC card can work locally but fail for an inter-area trip.05How Do I Find Elevators in Japanese Train Stations With Luggage?A faster way to choose an accessible station route before hauling a suitcase downstairs.06Why Does My Shinkansen Ticket Say “Tokyo Ward Area”?Learn why “Tokyo Ward Area” appears on a Shinkansen ticket, which local JR ride it covers, and how to use it at transfer and exit gates.07What Happens to My Paper Train Ticket at the Exit Gate?Why a Japanese ticket gate sometimes keeps your ticket and sometimes gives it back.