While IC cards like Suica and PASMO are incredibly convenient for train travel in Japan.
But there are times when you need or want to use a paper ticket.
This post will show you how to buy and use train tickets in Japan, even if you’re a first-time visitor！
When Might You Need a Paper Ticket？
You might need a paper ticket if:
- You don’t have an IC card or haven’t had a chance to get one.
- You’re traveling on a local line or bus where IC cards aren’t accepted.
- You want to purchase a special discount ticket, like a one-day pass.
- You’re buying long-distance tickets （like Shinkansen） at a ticket office .
Finding the Ticket Vending Machines
Ticket vending machines are usually located near the ticket gates.
You’ll see rows of them. While designs vary, the basic operation is similar.
Understanding the Fare Map
①Above or near the ticket machines, you’ll find a large route map that also shows the fares.
②Find your current station （often marked “This Station” or 当駅）.
③Find your destination station on the map and the number below or next to it is the fare you need to pay.
How to Buy a Ticket from a Vending Machine
①Language Selection
Most machines have a language selection button, often “English”.
Press this first to make things easier.
②Choosing Your Fare/Ticket Type
Press the button that corresponds to the fare you saw on the map.
If you’re using a touchscreen device, you may be able to select your destination from the map on the screen.
③Inserting Money
Insert coins or bills into the designated slots.
The machine will show how much you’ve inserted.
Don’t worry, you’ll get change.
④Receiving Your Ticket and Change
Your ticket and any change will be dispensed from their respective slots.
Make sure to collect both before leaving the machine！
⑤Multiple Person Tickets
Buying Tickets for Multiple People Some machines have a button to select the number of passengers （e.g., for adults or children） if you’re buying for more than one person.
This is usually done before selecting the fare.
Going Through the Ticket Gates
①Inserting Your Ticket
Approach the automated ticket gate and insert your ticket into the slot.
If there is an arrow on the ticket, insert it with the arrow first.
②Walking Through and Retrieving Your Ticket
When you pass through the gate, your ticket will come out of another slot on the other side of the gate.
Don’t forget to collect your ticket as you will need it when you get off at your destination！
③If the Gate Doesn’t Open
If the gate doesn’t open, you might have inserted the ticket incorrectly, or there might be another issue.
Ask a station attendant for help.
On the Platform and Train
Waiting on the platform and train etiquette are the same whether you’re using an IC card or a paper ticket.
For details on train types, platform displays, and onboard manners, please refer to our IC card guide.
Exiting the Station with a Paper Ticket
①Inserting Your Ticket at the Exit Gate
At your destination, go to the exit gates and insert your ticket into the slot again.
This time, the machine will usually keep your ticket.
※If you ask a station attendant at the manned gate, you can receive a ticket as a memento of your trip.
②Fare Adjustment
If you accidentally purchase a ticket with a lower fare than the actual fare, or if you decide to extend your trip, you will need to pay the difference at the “Fare Adjustment Machine” near the exit gate.
When you insert your original ticket into the machine, the surcharge will be displayed.
After you enter the surcharge, the machine will either issue a new ticket or, if connected to a gate, allow you through.
If you’re unsure, ask a station attendant at a manned gate to settle the fare.
Useful Vocabulary
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切符（Kippu） – Ticket
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券売機（Kenbaiki） – Ticket Vending Machine
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運賃（Unchin） – Fare
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運賃表（Unchin-hyō） – Fare Chart
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精算（Seisan） – Fare Adjustment
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お釣り（Otsuri） – Change （money）
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領収書（Ryōshūsho） – Receipt （if needed）
Buying train tickets in Japan might seem a little tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quite straightforward.
We hope this guide helps you confidently navigate Japan’s train system using paper tickets. Enjoy your travels！
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