Matthew

Hi Matthew,

1.) You can make reservations for seats at any JR station with the JR Pass. It is not possible to do so online I'm afraid. However trains have many (and I mean many) seats, if you reserve them 1-2 days in advance then you won't have a problem at all.

2.) Yes, you can do this later, even on the day of travel. Though again if you really want to be sure of good seats, book a day in advance.

3.) correct, local trains to Nara don't even have reserved seats.

4.) Have a look at our map: www.jrpass.com/map

5.) For travel times, I recommend learning to plan with Hyperdia this way you can find any route/timetable and more. It's a great tool for planning with the JR Pass. We also have a useful interactive map with all JR lines included.

Hope this helps!
Daniel

Hello Daniel,
Thanks for responds!
Q:
1) Can the Regional JR East pass be used to book for the JOYful train rides at no additional charge?
2) Can these be reserved online? If not, are these JOYful trains likely to be filled up 1-2 days advance?
3) Can the TOKYO wide pass be used to the IZU Craille Joyful train? If yes, do i need to top up for a green car? I Are there?, I could not find green car package for TOKYO wide 3 days pass.

Thanks

Hi Matthew,

I saw you posted elsewhere too but I'll keep the questions in this thread.

1.) Generally yes but depends on what JR East pass you use, as long as the train travels within the validity of said pass.

2.) I actually don't know but don't think so. Give Ekinet a try:
https://www.eki-net.com/pc/jreast-shinkansen-reservation/English/wb/Common/Menu/Menu.aspx

3.) I believe not, the Tokyo Wide Pass can only be used on non-reserved seats and if I recall correctly the Izu Craille train is reserved seats only. There are no Green options for regional passes, if you want a Green seat either buy normal tickets or consider the JR Pass (nationwide).

Kind regards,
Daniel