Rail pass needs separate tickets?

Hi janine,

The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel during it's duration in the seat class you buy (normal or green/first class) on all trains and buses on Japan Rail. This includes travel on Bullet Trains except the Nozomi services. No ticket is required for travel, you just show your pass when passing ticket gates.

You can reserve seats for free with the Japan Rail Pass (normally there is a charge). But to do this you've got to visit the ticket office before you board, show your jrpass, and then you receive a free ticket with your seat number and carriage number on it.