Train Usage Guide

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How to use JR WEST

This page provides essential information for traveling in Japan, including how to ride trains, purchase tickets from ticket vending machines, read JR-West route maps, and understand travel etiquette.

Riding the Train - The Basics

JR-WEST Usage Guide from Kansai International Airport

How to get a reserved seat ticket froma ticket vending machine

Line Symbol/Color and Station Number Usage Guide

Train and Station Manners
How to Use JR-West

Travel essentials

Baggage policy

Up to two portable items with dimensions totaling no more than 250 cm (height + width + length, with length limited to 2 meters) and weighing no more than 30 kg are allowed in the train. (Please note that umbrellas, canes, personal belongings, and similar items do not count toward this restriction.)

Specific Restrictions

  • Bicycles for cycling or for sports competitions must be dismantled and carried in a dedicated bag.
    Collapsible bicycles must also be collapsedand stored in a dedicated bag.

Prohibited luggage

Dangerous items, portable stoves and portable cooking stoves, animals, carcasses, filthy items, unpleasant-smelling items, items that may damage the train, and other questionable items, are not allowed in the train.

This does not include small birds, small insects, juvenile chicks, or fish in carrying cases.

Items that do not incur fees

  • Travel bags, suitcases, sports equipment (including surfboards housed in special bags), musical instruments, entertainment supplies, toys, other portable luggage Sports equipment, musical instruments, or entertainment supplies that exceed the length restrictions are still allowed so long as they can be transported standing upright. (Please carry such items in a dedicated bag or case.)
  • Dedicated bags carrying dismantled bicycles for cycling or for sports competitions, or dedicated carrying bags carrying collapsible bicycles

Also without a fee

  • Guide dogs, service dogs, and hearing dogs—according to the provisions of the Assistance Dogs Act for Persons with Disabilities—when accompanying their owners. However, only dogs adhering to the identification regulations and other regulations stipulated in the law are allowed.

Try unique “Ekiben” on your journey

“Ekiben”, or station bento, are special boxed meals sold for enjoyment on trains, making rail travel in Japan even more memorable. Packed with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties, they offer a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Travel with oversized baggage (total dimensions of 160 cm or more)

If you are traveling on the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, or Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen with oversized baggage (total dimensions exceeding 160 cm), a dedicated seat reservation is required. Learn more about how to travel safely, comfortably, and conveniently.

More details on large baggage

Accessibility

At JR-WEST, it is our aim to offer railway services with confidence to all of our patrons, including those who may be physically challenged. We strive to maintain our accessibility features and offer sincere support at all times. This web site offers information on how patrons with disabilities can use our stations and trains in addition to information on the development of barrier-free and other accessibility features JR-WEST actively promotes.

More Information

Free Wi-Fi

Easy and convenient! Wi-Fi service, free of charge for 8 days. Wi-Fi is available in the surrounding area wherever this mark is found.

JR-WEST Free Wi-Fi Service

Traveling with pets - Fees and conditions

Pets must be transported in a case that holds their entire body.

Fees are required for:

Small dogs, cats, doves, or small animals of similar size (excluding wild animals and snakes), with the following restrictions:

  • Animals in carrying cases no longer than 70 cm and with dimensions totaling no more than 90 cm (height + width + length)
  • Animals in carrying cases with an overall weight of no more than 10 kilograms

Our trains

Choosing a train is not just about reaching your destination—it’s about enjoying the journey. JR-West offers a comfortable, convenient, and eco-friendly way to travel.
Find the perfect train for your trip and embark on a memorable journey.

Train information page

Plan your perfect trip
with JR-West

Explore helpful information to plan and find your perfect trip. Find all the information you need for your trip, including useful support during your trip.

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