The Mainichi Shimbun answers some common questions readers may have about the significant changes to Japan Railways (JR) group's special discount "Seishun 18 Kippu" tickets and the surrounding controversy.

Question: As winter break is approaching, I'm thinking of traveling using the Seishun 18 Kippu, but what exactly is it?

Answer: Despite its name literally meaning "youth 18 ticket," it allows unlimited rides on local and rapid trains of JR group companies for people of all ages. It was first introduced in 1982 as the "Seishun 18 Nobi Nobi Kippu" before the privatization of the then Japanese National Railways. About 620,000 of the tickets were sold in fiscal 2023. It has remained very popular among railroad fans and others, but went through major changes starting with the batches for this winter, released on Nov. 26.

Q: How did it change?

A: Up until now, a single book of tickets allowing one-day unlimited rides on all JR lines for five non-continuous days was priced 12,050 yen (some $78). These were sold during spring, summer and winter seasons, and could be used anytime during the respective periods.

Starting this winter, the ticket is available in two types: a five-day ticket sold at 12,050 yen, and a three-day ticket costing 10,000 yen (roughly $65), which must be used over a period of five consecutive days or three days in a row, respectively.

Q: So you can't space out the days you use the tickets on anymore?

A: That's right. In the past, passengers could use one ticket sheet on different days according to their schedule, but it is now valid for consecutive days only.

Furthermore, the number of people who can use the same ticket has also changed. Previously, multiple people could split a ticket sheet up when traveling in a group or on other occasions, but from now on, each person will need to purchase their own ticket.

Q: Why are they making such drastic changes?

A: According to East Japan Railway Co. (JR East), until the changes a Seishun 18 Kippu had to be validated by station staff at the ticket gate. From this winter, however, it has become compatible with automatic ticket gates. The company explained, "Due to system requirements, a ticket needs to be used on consecutive days without any breaks."

Q: Wasn't the previous system more convenient?

A: Many people are voicing their disappointment online, calling the change a "downgrade." However, it may be unavoidable for tickets and railroads to evolve with the times.

(Japanese original by Keisuke Harada, Tokyo City News Department)