A basic fare ticket is necessary for all train travel. In addition to a basic fare ticket, one or more of supplemental charge tickets may be needed.

Reserved seats can be purchased at JR Reservation Ticket Offices ("Midori-no-madoguchi") and at View Plazas (Travel Service Center). Fare tickets for local trains can be purchased from automatic ticket vending machines.

A valid unused ticket can be changed only once to a different ticket of the same category without any handling charges, but there are some exceptions. Any difference in price will be collected when the change is made.

A ticket can be changed after the start of the trip; any additional fares or charges involved must be paid, but previously paid fares or charges will not be refunded except for fare tickets with an unused segment of at least 101km.

Any unused, valid ticket can be refunded after deduction of the specified cancellation charge.

When train service has been suspended or delayed, there are many options for dealing with fares and charges, including refunds and exchanges.