In a previous post, I introduced how to purchase and collect the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, which is a great option for traveling around the Sapporo region. Today, I will guide you on how to reserve and, if necessary, cancel reserved seats using this pass.
1. Reserved vs. Non-Reserved Seats
In Japan, train seats are generally divided into reserved and non-reserved categories. Non-reserved seats operate similarly to general subway seating—you find an available seat upon boarding. However, reserved seats guarantee a specific seat, which is especially recommended for long-distance trips. Non-reserved seats can sometimes mean standing if all seats are occupied. While reserved seats are slightly more expensive, the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, as well as passes like the Furano and Noboribetsu Passes, allow you to use both non-reserved and reserved seats without additional charges. This makes reserving a seat the preferable option when using the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass.
During peak travel seasons, such as winter, reserved seats tend to sell out quickly. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your travels in advance and book your seats early.
2. Online Seat Reservations
There are two main ways to reserve a seat—at the train station or online. Initially, I looked into reserving my seat online, as visiting the station each time seemed inconvenient. However, the process involves signing up on an online platform and still needing to use a ticket machine to collect your tickets, which can be cumbersome. As a result, I opted for making reservations directly at the station.
If you need to make an online reservation due to distance from a station or concerns about ticket availability, you can use the link below for the reservation site: Japan Rail Pass Reserved Seat Reservation.
3. Reserving at the Station Ticket Counter
At the station, there are two options for making a reservation: speaking directly to staff at the ticket counter or using an automated ticket machine.
Ticket counter staff can assist you by recommending suitable seats and times, which is convenient. However, requesting multiple reserved seats at once might be challenging, particularly if there is a long queue. Additionally, ticket counters may not operate late at night, which makes using an automated ticket machine necessary.
Since I needed to reserve several seats in advance for my itinerary, I chose to use the automated ticket machine.
4. Reserving a Seat Using an Automated Ticket Machine
Reserving a seat through an automated ticket machine is quite simple:
1. First, select your language preference at the top left of the screen.
2. Choose the “Reserved Seat” button.
3. Select “Use Discount Pass or Multi-Ticket for Reservation.”
4. Insert your rail pass into the machine.
5. Choose your departure and arrival stations.
6. Specify the departure date and time, then proceed to issue the reserved seat ticket.
5. Boarding with a Reserved Seat Ticket
When entering the train platform, you will need to use your rail pass, not the reserved seat ticket, for entry.
The reserved seat ticket only indicates your seat assignment. During the journey, an inspector may check your seat, so place your reserved ticket in the slot in front of you to make the check smoother.
Note that since the reserved ticket is used in tandem with the rail pass, inspectors may also ask to see your rail pass.
6. Canceling a Reserved Seat Ticket
If you need to cancel a reserved seat ticket, you cannot do so using an automated machine. You will need to bring your ticket to the ticket counter and request a cancellation. I experienced this myself while adjusting my train schedule in Hakodate—fortunately, the cancellation process was straightforward with the help of the staff.
7. Purchasing and Collecting the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
If you have yet to purchase the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, you can do so through the link below. It is possible to buy the pass upon arrival at New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, but purchasing it online in advance will save you 1,000 yen.
For more details on collecting the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, please refer to my previous post.
Today, I introduced how to reserve seats using the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass. Hokkaido is full of beautiful sights, and you may end up traveling to several regions during your visit. The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass can help alleviate the cost of transportation, making your trip more affordable and convenient. Make the most of your travels by using the pass effectively!
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