I’m traveling to Japan in May and will be spending 4 days in Tokyo, 4 days in Kyoto, and 3 days in Osaka, a day trip to Hiroshima, then traveling from Osaka to NRT airport . I want to purchase a 7 day JR pass but do not want to activate it until I’m headed to Kyoto. I’m wondering if I purchase the JR pass in advanced, do I need to activate it as soon as I arrive in Tokyo or could I wait to activate the pass when I’m on my way to Kyoto? Should I wait to purchase my JR pass when I’m in Tokyo headed to Kyoto or would this be an issue? I’ve read various forums & websites stating that I need to purchase the JR pass in advance so the information that I’ve been researching has been a bit confusing.
Activating JR Pass
Hi there,
In your case, you can exchange the order when you arrive in Tokyo and when asked to set an activation date, have it set to the date you leave for Tokyo. The good thing about this option is that as soon as you exchange the order in Tokyo, you can begin making seat reservations for your JR Pass even though it won't be presently active. Please note you are unable to purchase the JR Pass within Japan.
Hope this helps!
Alexis
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