Order Your JRPass
Naomi
Naomi
over 11 years ago
1 response

We arrive in Japan on Dec. 26 but won't activate and begin use of the 7-day JR Pass until Dec. 31 to use during our biggest travel time of Dec. 31 to Jan. 6. I heard that's the busiest travel time of the year. How do seat reservations work? We can't reserve any seats until Dec. 31 and the Pass is activated, right? What happens if all seats are taken? Do you get on the train, for example from Kyoto to Hiroshima, and stand?
Upon activation, can we reserve seats on trains for various dates and destinations through Jan. 6?

avatar
Daniel-san
18835 posts
over 11 years ago
Expert

Hi Naomi,

If you arrive on the 26th in Japan you can already exchange your pass then and set the first day of use on the 31st. This way you can also make reservations beforehand, starting at the moment that you have received the actual pass. You can make al the reservations for your trip if you want at this point.

In case you can't get a seat reservation for any reason: Every Shinkansen train also has a certain amount of cars with unreserved seats. These go on a first come first serve basis, so be sure to line up early. The best way to obtain one of these is to go the the platform from where the train is question will depart, find where a unreserved car will stop (this can be seen by signs above the platform gates) and be sure you are there well in advance to procure it.

It is very rare for people to stand in a Bullet train, the only time I have seen this myself was when several trains where cancelled due to a typhoon showing up, so in general I don't think you have to worry.

Happy Holidays!
-Daniel


Looking for more information? Search the forum

Select Category

Instant Quote

Starting from $343.00 for 7 days of unlimited Japan Rail travel

Can’t find the answer?

Learn from over 17329 questions about the Japan Rail Pass, or ask our Japan Rail travel experts

Ask Question

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Visit us on Facebook

Get inspired for your visit to Japan by following us on Instagram and don't forget your own shots once you are there.


Find out where to buy the japan rail pass online.

Order your JRPass Now!

We have special prices for children and great first class options. See all tickets or see our range of Regional Passes