A platform ticket is a type of rail ticket issued by some railway systems, permitting the bearer to access the platforms of a railway station, but not to board and use any train services. It allows people to walk with their friends and loved ones all the way to the passenger car at stations where the general public is not admitted to platforms. Railfans can also purchase platform tickets and enjoy their trainspotting hobbies. They vary in type: some may only allow limited access and a sharply limited time of usage, while others may have totally free access to enter the platform area. During peak usage hours or rush hours, the platforms may only be available for passengers who intend to travel.
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Companies of Japan Railways Group (JR Group) sell platform tickets (入場券 nyūjōken) priced between 120 yen and 160 yen at all staffed stations and platform passes (定期入場券 teiki nyūjōken), which allow unlimited access to the platform area for one month, priced between 3,780 yen and 4,890 yen at limited stations. They do not allow holders to enter into coaches. Among JR Group stations, all staffed stations of JR East, JR Central and JR West and stations of JR Hokkaidō with automatic ticket gates limit the validity of the ticket to two hours from issuance; additional fee is charged if the ticket holder exits the ticket gate after the two-hour period expires.[1]
Platform tickets were in common use on the mainline network until the mid 20th century, and the majority of ticket offices are still equipped to issue them. The use of automated ticket barriers at stations has resulted in a renewed demand for platform tickets. Railfans in particular are advised that they may require a platform ticket for access to platforms,[2] but some individuals have expressed difficulty in obtaining them.[3]
Some heritage railways and museums issue platform tickets, for admittance or as souvenirs.
A platform ticket in India costs 3 INR and is valid for one person only. It allows the person to access the platforms for a time period of two hours. A person having a railway ticket for a train on the same day is not required to have a platform ticket. The platform ticket can be bought on any ticket reservation booth in the railway station. If caught without a platform ticket if the person is not a traveler, he/she may be fined anywhere around 250 to 270 Rupees.