For travelers planning to explore Japan by rail, JR East is one of the most practical and efficient transportation options — particularly across central Tokyo and the surrounding region.
Before you can board, however, there is one important step to complete: redeeming your ticket.
Here is a step-by-step guide to redeeming JR East tickets in Japan, covering both Shinkansen and Limited Express services.
Before You Begin
Make sure you have your QR Code ready. This is typically sent to your email by your travel agent or booking platform at the time of purchase.
How to Redeem Your JR East Ticket
Step 1 — Find the JR Ticket Machine
Once you arrive at the station, look for a JR ticket machine bearing the "えきねっと" (Eki-Net) logo, as shown in the image.
These machines are usually located near the JR Ticket Office (Midori no Madoguchi) and are easy to spot. They are generally in operation from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
Step 2 — Select Your Language
Tap the language selection button in the upper right corner of the screen. Available options include English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean.
Step 3 — Scan Your QR Code
Select "Read QR Code" from the lower right corner of the screen, then hold your QR Code up to the scanner located at the bottom right of the machine.
Step 4 — If the "Read QR Code" Option Is Not Available
Some machines may not display the "Read QR Code" option directly.
If that is the case, select "Pick up Tickets," then navigate to "JR-EAST Train Reservation," and finally choose "QR Code or Pick up Code."
From there, scan your QR Code using the scanner at the bottom right of the machine.
If the scan fails, try increasing your phone's screen brightness or turning off dark mode before trying again.
Step 5 — If Scanning Continues to Fail
Should the QR Code still not scan successfully, select "Pick up Code" and manually enter the 17-digit code found in your booking confirmation email.
Step 6 — Confirm Your Booking Details
Once your QR Code has been successfully scanned, your reservation details will appear on screen. Review all the information carefully, then press "Issue" to print your tickets.
Step 7 — Collect Your Tickets
You will receive two tickets: a Boarding Ticket and a Limited Express Ticket. Both are valid for the same journey and must be kept together throughout your trip.
How to Use Your Tickets After Redeeming
For Limited Express services (non-Shinkansen): insert only the Boarding Ticket into the ticket gate slot.
For Shinkansen services: insert both the Boarding Ticket and the Limited Express Ticket together, stacked on top of each other, into the ticket gate slot.
After passing through the gate, always remember to collect both tickets from the other side. You will need them throughout your journey and when exiting at your destination station.
