In Japan - Buying Train Tickets

Vending machines are located near the ticket gates of every station and almost always have an "English" button.

: Select the fare amount that matches your destination. For Shinkansen or Limited Express trains, select the "Shinkansen" or "Reserved Seat" button. buying train tickets in japan

: Look at the large map above the machines. Your current station is usually highlighted in red or marked with a "You are here" arrow. Find your destination on the map; the number next to it is the fare in yen. Select Language : Press the English button on the screen. Vending machines are located near the ticket gates

: Most machines accept coins and bills (¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000). Some newer machines also accept credit cards. : Look at the large map above the machines

If you find the machines confusing or need to book complex long-distance travel, visit the manned ticket office , easily recognized by its .

Buying paper train tickets in Japan is a straightforward process, whether you use automated vending machines or visit a manned ticket office. While modern travel often relies on rechargeable like Suica or PASMO , paper tickets are still required for certain long-distance trips, like the Shinkansen, or for travelers who prefer cash transactions. How to Buy Tickets at a Vending Machine