New Year holiday

Hi there,

Ticket offices are open every day of the year, so no worries there.

Do keep in mind that you will have to purchase the JR Pass outside of Japan and you don't have to activate it right away once you arrive.

Hope this helps!
Daniel

Thank you for your reply! I am a little confused about purchasing in Japan though.. According to http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/eastpass/index.html#category04 it seems to be ok to buy the pass in Japan? I quote:
How to purchase:

...Purchasing in Japan

Show your passport at a location where the JR EAST PASS is sold. You will receive a pass after confirmation of eligibility.
Note:
When purchasing, it is necessary to present your passport and return flight ticket etc. (including "e-ticket customer coupons").
While visiting in Japan, each visitor may have one JR EAST PASS at a time. (A new pass may not be purchased if another one is still in use.)..."

Do you know if this information is still accurate?

And! Is activation the same as exchanging the pass?
/E

Hi E,

Yes, the JR East pass can be purchased in Japan. However the JR Pass that is valid nationwide can only be purchased outside of Japan.

You can select at first day of use when you purchase it.