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Obtaining a JR Pass when you're in Japan

dewianautami
dewianautami
almost 10 years ago
2 responses

Hello, I'm an exchange student from Indonesia currently studying in Yamagata University. Before I came to Japan, it never occurred to me to buy a JR Pass because I thought I can get a discount on the regular tickets here with my student status. As I was planning to have a road trip next summer, I found out that I've made a mistake for not buying one. However, my brother is coming to see me next month, and he's planning to buy a JR Pass.

My question: does anyone know if my brother can purchase a JR Pass on my behalf? Do I need to send my original visa and passport to my brother (he's in Singapore), or can I just send him a copy?

avatar
Daniel-san
18830 posts
almost 10 years ago
Expert

Hi there,

Your brother can buy the pass for you and take it with him. No problem at all. Be sure though that you are in Japan under a tourist Visa when you want to use the JR pass. Other visa status such as student are not accepted.

Your brother only has to fill in your name in the online form, you don't have to send him your passport.

Hope this helps!
Daniel

dewianautami
dewianautami
2 posts
almost 10 years ago

Daniel-san, thanks for the reply!

Unfortunately my Visa IS a student Visa, so I think I can't buy one after all... However, another exchange student from the US bought a JR Pass with a Student Visa, is there an exception for Americans? :|

avatar
Daniel-san
18830 posts
almost 10 years ago
Expert

Hi Again,

Sorry for the bad news. I am not sure how your friend got a JR Pass as [according to JR regulations only a tourist Visa is valid.

Maybe you could ask your friend what he/she did?

Once your study activities are finished you could apply for a change in Visa status and get a tourist visa instead. This would allow you to use your JR Pass.

Hope this helps!
Daniel


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