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JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats

from
¥50,000
Extended Validity
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to Know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Go everywhere in Japan, and take your time to do it. Access local JR lines and bus routes for 7, 14, or 21 days with this pass.
  • Travel via JR Shinkansen, Miyajima Ferry, the Tokyo Monorail, and many more railway, bus, and ferry options (see inclusions) equipped with a digital guide.
  • Get your pass delivered to your doorstep everywhere in the world except Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. For delivery to these countries, click here.

Inclusions

  • 7/14/21-day JR pass (route map here)
  • Unlimited train rides on JR lines
  • Global mail delivery
  • Access to ordinary car
  • Access to JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, and the BRT
  • Access to Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, Ainokaze Toyama Railway
  • Access to local JR Buses: JR Hokkaido Bus, JR Bus Tohoku, JR Bus Kanto, JR Tokai Bus, West Japan JR Bus, Chugoku JR Bus, JR Shikoku Bus, JR Kyushu Bus
  • Access to JR-West Miyajima Ferry

Exclusions

  • Reserved and non-reserved seats on Nozomi and Mizuho trains
  • JR Bus Express bus routes
  • Access to R-Kyushu Hydrofoil Ferry
  • You must book your JR pass before traveling to or entering Japan. Book it at least 2 weeks before your trip. Note: The date you select on the calendar is the date you intend to leave for Japan.
  • The physical voucher will reach your address by mail well ahead of your trip.
  • Please provide accurate personal information while booking: name, passport number, and country of residence.
  • Find the route map here.
  • You'll have 90 days to exchange your digital pass for the physical one at an official exchange office.
  • Note that the JR Pass is valid for 30 days to activate after you receive the physical pass.
  • You can use the pass for 7, 14, or 21 days (depending on the ticket selected) within 30 days.
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats

from
¥70,000
Extended Validity
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Travel all around Japan in comfort with Green Class seats, accessing local rail lines, buses, and even a ferry. Choose between 7, 14, and 21-day passes.
  • Sit comfortably: there's plenty of legroom in the Green Class coaches. Meanwhile, your digital guide fills you in on everything you need to know about Japan.
  • Gain unlimited access to train rides on JR lines, Tokyo Monorail, IR Ishikawa Railway, local JR buses, JR-West Miyajima Ferry, etc.
  • Enjoy convenient door-delivery of your pass everywhere in the world. It'll reach you well before you travel to Japan.

Inclusions

  • 7/14/21-day JR pass (route map here)
  • Unlimited train rides on JR lines
  • Global mail delivery
  • Access to green car
  • Access to JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, and the BRT
  • Access to Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, Ainokaze Toyama Railway
  • Access to local JR Buses: JR Hokkaido Bus, JR Bus Tohoku, JR Bus Kanto, JR Tokai Bus, West Japan JR Bus, Chugoku JR Bus, JR Shikoku Bus, JR Kyushu Bus
  • Access to JR-West Miyajima Ferry

Exclusions

  • Reserved and non-reserved seats on Nozomi and Mizuho trains
  • JR Bus Express bus routes
  • Access to R-Kyushu Hydrofoil Ferry
  • This pass is only valid for non-Japanese passport holders with a Temporary Visitor stamp. Permanent citizens of Japan including non-Japanese passport holders cannot use this pass.
  • Prebook your JR Pass before traveling to Japan, at least 2 weeks before you travel. The date you'll select is the date you intend to leave for Japan.
  • You'll receive your physical voucher by mail well before your trip.
  • Please provide accurate information verifiable against your passport: Your name, passport number, and country of residence.
  • With the JR Pass you can access various bus services including JR Hokkaido Bus, JR Bus Tohoku, JR Bus Kanto, and more.
  • Find the route map here.
  • You'll have 90 days to exchange your digital pass for the physical one at an official exchange office.
  • Note that the JR Pass is valid for 30 days to activate after you receive the physical pass.
  • You can use the pass for 7, 14, or 21 days (depending on the ticket selected) within 30 days.
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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JR Pass: Kansai with Hiroshima or Hokuriku

from
¥15,000
Free Cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended Validity
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to Know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Go everywhere in Kansai, along with Hokuriku or Hiroshima between 4-7 days on trains, buses, and ferries with this super convenient pass.
  • Cover so many places: pop by Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, etc in Kansai. Say hi to Fukui, or Toyama in Hokuriku, or the peace memorial at Hiroshima.
  • Skip long ticketing lines and redeem your pass at conveniently located ticketing machines. Travel on world-class trains that are as fast as they're convenient.

Inclusions

  • Hiroshima Pass(optional)
  • Unlimited train rides in the areas here (route map)
  • Unreserved seats on Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka ↔ Hiroshima), Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kuonotori, Super Hakuto Express Trains (Kyoto ↔ Kamigori)
  • Special rapid services and local trains on JR West conventional lines
  • JR West Miyajima ferry (Miyakimaguchi ↔ Miyajima)
  • Kyoto Tango Railway, Wakayama Electric Railway, the Sanin main line between Hamasaka and Tottori
  • West JR and Chugoken JR bus services within the area
  • Hokuriku Area Pass(optional)
  • Bullet train Hokuriku shinkansen (Kanazawa-Joetsu-Myoko)
  • Express trains (Haruka, Thunderbird, Kuroshio, Kounotori, Super Hakuto)
  • Special rapid services, rapid services, and local trains on JR-WEST conventional lines
  • West Japan JR bus route buses within the valid area

Exclusions

  • Sanyo Shinkansen (Hiroshima ↔ Hakata)
  • Tokaido Shinkansen (Shin- Osaka ↔ Tokyo)
  • Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata ↔ Kagoshima- Chuo)
  • This pass is valid for non-Japanese passport holders. Please bring your travel documents: passports with valid visas, ID cards, etc. when you travel.
  • Please check the official portal to know the updated operating hours of JR-ticket counters, so you can pick up your pass conveniently.
  • These are the stations' operating hours.

You can use the pass for 4, 5, or 7 days (depending on the ticket selected).
You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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JR East Pass: Nagano & Niigata or Tohuko

from
¥27,000
Extended Validity
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to Know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Here's your pocket-friendly 5-day rail pass to soak in the charms of Japan's eastern regions: Tohoku or Nagano + Niigata, starting from Narita/Haneda Airport.
  • Exclusive to tourists, this pass offers unlimited access to top-notch railway networks including the Narita Express, the Izu Kyuko lines, and the Shinkansen.
  • Choose between rail passes for equally stunning regions: the northeastern region of Tohoku or the Nagano and Niigata areas for your 5-day adventure.

Inclusions

  • Unlimited access to select rail lines in:
  • Nagano and Niigata areas or Tohoku area
  • Either pass is valid for 5 consecutive days
  • Please click here to find the detailed map and route.
  • Tip: Have your itinerary on you so the staff can help you board the trains seamlessly.
  • This pass is exclusive to non-Japanese passport holders and restricted to one per person.
  • Please click here to find the detailed route map.
  • Please carry your passport and receipt of the voucher while using this pass.
  • You can use the pass for 5 consecutive days once activated.
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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JR Kyushu Rail Pass

from
¥10,000
Extended Validity
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Check out what's hot in the land of fire – Kyushu for 3, 5, or 7 days with this rail pass granting you access to all major railways in Japan's southernmost island.
  • Travel via Shimonoseki, local trains, express trains, and bullet trains of the Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo line using this pass, valid exclusively for tourists visiting Japan.
  • There's so much to see in Kyushu, like the Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso (one of the world's largest active volcanoes), and more. Pick between the North or South, or see it all.

Inclusions

Inclusions

All Kyushu Pass

  • Trains within the Kyushu (Hakata - Miyazaki Airport stations) area including Shimonoseki
  • Unlimited reserved and non-reserved seats

South Kyushu Pass

  • Trains between Oita, Kumamoto, Kagoshima-Chuo, Miyazaki, and Miyazaki Airport stations
  • Unlimited reserved and non-reserved seats (redeemable up to 6 times)

North Kyushu Pass

  • Trains between Hakata, Kokura, Mojikō, Saga, Nagasaki, Sasebo, and Beppu stations
  • Unlimited non-reserved and reserved seats (redeemable up to 6 times)

Note: Seats can only be reserved on Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, Tsubame, and Kamome bullet trains) and limited express trains.

Exclusions

  • JR Kyushu buses
  • B&S Miyazaki buses
  • Cruise Train Seven Stars in Kyushu
  • ARU RESSHA (Sweet Train)
  • Shinkansen (bullet train) between Hakata and Kokura
  • Access to Green Cars (private room/compartment)
  • This pass is only valid for non-Japanese passport holders with a Temporary Visitor stamp. Permanent citizens of Japan including non-Japanese passport holders cannot use this pass.
  • Please ensure that you receive a stamp or seal from airport staff indicating that you are a 'temporary visitor'. Ensure that you approach personnel if entering via an automated gate to receive the stamp/certificate.
  • The pass is valid for 3, 5, or 7 consecutive days (depending on your selection) once activated.
  • You can use the pass for 3, 5, or 7 days (depending on the ticket selected).
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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JR West Kansai Area Rail Pass

from
¥2,800
Free Cancellation

Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to Know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Say hi to everywhere in Kansai: Osaka, Kyoto, Shiga, Nara, etc with this 1/2/3/4/5-day pass granting you access to top rail lines in western Japan.
  • Travel via super fast, safe, and comfortable trains including the Kansai Airport Express Haruka, Rapid and Special Rapid Services, and JR-West trains.
  • Redeem your pass quickly at ticketing machines and skip waiting lines. Enjoy a 90-day validity during which your unused tickets are 100% refundable.

Inclusions

  • JR Kansai Pass valid for 1/2/3/4/5 days
  • Unlimited train rides in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu (refer to the map here)
  • Click here for the JR Line Route Map (Kansai Region).
  • Reserved seats redeemable up to 6 times (based on the option selected)
  • Access to non-reserved seats on the Express Haruka train to/from Kansai-Airport
  • Access to non-reserved seats on Special Rapid Services train, Rapid Services train, and local trains on JR-West Conventional lines
  • Access to JR Buses (Kyoto City only)
  • Non-reserved seats on Sanyo Shinkansen (based on option selected)
  • When purchasing/receiving a Kansai Area Pass, vouchers for the Kyoto City Subway, Keihan Railway, and Hankyu Railway will also be provided.

Exclusions

  • Bullet Train Ticket (Shinkansen)
  • This pass is for you if you are a non-Japanese passport holder with a temporary visiting visa and permanently reside outside Japan for over 6 months.
  • Please ensure you receive a stamp or seal from airport staff indicating that you are a 'temporary visitor'. Ensure that you approach personnel if entering via an automated gate to receive the stamp/certificate.
  • For more information on using Kyoto City Subway, Keihan Railway, and Hankyu Railway, please click here.
  • Children aged 12 and over are considered as adults. An Adult or Child pass holder can support up to 2 infants, aged 5 and under for free. Additional charges will apply for more infants.
  • You can use the pass for 1,2,3,4, or 5 days (depending on the ticket selected).
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
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JR Hokkaido Rail Pass

from
¥20,000
Free Cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Highlights
Inclusions
Need to Know
How to use
Cancellation Policy
  • Explore the whole of Hokkaido or specific areas ( Sapporo-Noboribetsu or Sapporo-Furano) with a choice of single rail 4, 5, 7, or 10-day passes.
  • Instantly redeem your pass and get going. Go around northern Japan in super fast trains and buses, getting everywhere on time.
  • Enjoy your trip around the north, covering cities like Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa, etc, knowing your ride is always sorted.

Inclusions

  • Hokkaido Rail Pass
  • Unlimited train rides in Hokkaido for 5, 7, or 10 consecutive days
  • Access to these buses
  • Reserved and non-reserved ordinary seats in limited express trains, special rapid trains, rapid trains, temporary trains and local trains
  • Sapporo-Noboribetsu Rail Pass
  • Unlimited access to JR Hokkaido Line in the Sapporo-Noboribetsu area for 4 consecutive days
  • Non-reserved seats on express trains
  • Sapporo-Furano Rail Pass
  • Unlimited access to JR Hokkaido Line in the Sapporo-Furano area for 4 consecutive days
  • Non-reserved seats on express trains, temporary trains and local trains

Exclusions

  • Hokkaido Shinkansen Line, the South Hokkaido Railway, the streetcar, and the subway
  • Other lines: South Hokkaido Railway, Sapporo Municipal Subway, etc
  • Hokkaido Shinkansen Hayabusa and Hayate trains
  • Reserved seats on the SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train
  • Buses between Sapporo-Asahikawa, Monbetsu, Hiro'o, Kiroro, Ohibiro, Erimo, Shin Sapporo-Atsubetsu Stadium, and JR Shiroishi Station-Sapporo Dome, and Chuo buses
  • This pass is valid for non-Japanese passport holders. Please bring your travel documents: passports with valid visas, ID cards, etc. when you travel.
  • You can book one pass per order: please reserve passes for each guest individually.
  • Please provide accurate personal information verifiable against your passport including your name & residence info.
  • Children aged 12 and over are considered as adults. An Adult or Child pass holder can support up to 2 infants, aged 5 and under for free. Additional charges will apply for more infants.
  • Infants require tickets for reserved seats, green car seats, and separate berths.
  • You can use the pass for 7, 14, or 21 days (depending on the ticket selected).
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • Reserve your seats before boarding the trains. Click here to know how you can reserve them.
  • Please check the official portal to know the updated operating hours of JR-ticket counters, so you can pick up your pass conveniently.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

JR Pass | Your Key to Exploring Japan Effortlessly

Planning your Japan adventure? The Japan Rail Pass is your key to unlocking the most cost and time-efficient way to get around the country's 4 islands. This convenient token is your ticket to Japan's renowned train system, buses, and even the country's iconic bullet train, the Shinkansen. 

Zip between bustling cities or venture off the beaten path — the JR Pass is the perfect adventure partner. Choose between national or regional coverage, standard or Green Class seating, and durations of 7, 14, or 21 days to perfectly fit your travel style and budget.

Read on to discover the types of JR Train Passes, their benefits, and how to find the ideal one for your trip!

Navigate your JR Pass guide

  1. Why buy a JR Pass?
  2. Booking guide: Which JR Pass should you go for?
  3. The ultimate 4-step guide to booking your JR Pass
  4. Find your best JR Pass match here
  5. Beyond the big cities: Your JR Regional Pass
  6. Frequently asked questions about the JR pass

Booking guide: Which JR Pass should you go for?

Choosing the right JR Pass can be daunting with all the different options available. But don't worry! We've got you covered. Before you dive in, consider these 4 key points to help you find the perfect fit for your travel style, itinerary, and budget.

The JR train pass may not be for you if:

  • You're staying in one city and making minimal long-distance journeys.
  • Your trip is shorter than 7 days, consider regular point-to-point tickets. Consider local transportation passes or single tickets for city-specific exploration.
  • You want to ride the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen express bullet trains. These require separate tickets and are not covered by JR Passes.

The ultimate 4-step guide to booking your JR Pass

Confused about booking your Japan Rail Pass? Worry no more! Our easy 4-step guide shows you the way. 

A person making a JR pass online purchase

Book your JR Pass online, and in advance. It’s convenient and hassle-free. Enter your planned travel date (departure date), and not the activation date.

JR Pass booking

You'll receive your physical Exchange Order at your doorstep.

Jr pass exchnage

Trade your Exchange Order within 90 days for a physical JR Pass at a designated JR office when you arrive in Japan (available at most major train stations and international terminals at airports).

Woman Activating Her JR Pass

Fill in the activation form and present your passport for verification at the exchange office. If you’ve opted for Green Class, once you’ve activated your pass, you can reserve your seats only. Your JR pass is now active and you can start exploring!

Important:

  • Regional passes are available as e-tickets. Present the QR code at the JR exchange office to redeem your pass.
  • Book at least 2 weeks before your trip, that is, before you depart for Japan. 
  • This pass includes mail delivery to most countries except Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
  • Exchange Orders are valid for 90 days, and activated passes are valid for 30 days afterward.
  • You can use your pass for 3,4,5, 7, 14, or 21 days within those 30 days.

Find your best JR Pass match here

JR Pass Name
Regions Covered
Trains Included
Validity & Duration
Green Pass Available
Shinkansen
Starting Price
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
All of Japan
JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, BRT and Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, & Ainokaze Toyama Railway. Local JR buses & JR West Miyajima Ferry.
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7/14/21 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats
All of Japan
JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, BRT and Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, & Ainokaze Toyama Railway. Local JR buses & JR West Miyajima Ferry.
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7/14/21 days within 30 days of activation.
Yes
Yes
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, & Bepu
Kyushu (Hakata to Miyazaki Airport stations) area trains. (incl. Shimonoseki)
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3/5/7 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR East Pass: Nagano & Niigata or Tohuko
Nagano, Niigata or Tohoku
Operating trains in the Nagano, Niigata or Tohoku areas.
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5 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR West Kansai Area Rail Pass
Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu
Trains in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu including Express Haruka train, Special Rapid Services train, Rapid Services train, & local trains on JR-West Conventional Lines. Plus, Kyoto JR buses.
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1/2/3 days within 30 days of activation.
No
No
JR Pass: Kansai with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu, with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Hokuriku Shinkansen, Sanyo Shinkansen, Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kuonotori, Super Hakuto Express Trains, JR West special rapid services & local trains, Kyoto Tango Railway, Wakayama Electric Railway, & the Sanin Line. West JR & Chugoken JR buses, & JR West Miyajima ferry.
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4/7 days (Hokuriku) & 5 days (Hiroshima) within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes (Sanyo Shinkansen/Hokuriku Shinkansen)
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, Asahikawa, and Wakkanai
JR Hokkaido trains in the Sapporo-Noboribetsu, & Sapporo-Furano areas.
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4/5 days within 30 days of activation.
No
No

Beyond the big cities: Your JR Regional Pass

Say hi to local treasures beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with JR Regional Passes. These affordable passes unlock specific regions, letting you tailor your adventure to your interests, budget, and location. Hike the Japanese Alps, see gassho-style farmhouses or soak in natural hot springs, there's a JR Pass for every region.

People Skiing

Hokkaido

Areas covered: Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, Asahikawa, and Wakkanai

Ideal for: Nature lovers, winter sports enthusiasts, and adventure seekers

Ski the slopes of Niseko, soak in natural hot springs, and the largest national park in Japan, Shiretoko National Park — all this and more awaits at Hokkaido.

Starting price: ¥9,000

City view with Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan

East Japan (JR East)

Areas covered: Tokyo, Yokohama, Nikko, Sendai, Chiba, Fukushima, Niigata, and Akita

Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies

See bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Yokohama, serene temples in Nikko, and historical sites in Sendai with the JR East Pass. Don't forget to try regional specialties like Wakame Tsukemen, a dipping noodle dish while you're there.

Starting price: ¥27,000

Mountain Fuji with Asian woman wearing japanese traditional kimono

Central Japan (JR Central)

Areas covered: Fuji, Nagoya, Matsumoto, Takayama, Gifu, and Izu

Ideal for: Traditional experiences, art lovers, and nature enthusiasts

From the fourth largest city in Japan, Nagoya to UNESCO treasure Mt. Fuji, and even historical gems like Matsumoto Castle and Takayama's traditional gassho-style farmhouses — this region is a nature lover's paradise.

Aerial view of Peace Memorial and Hiroshima city

West Japan (JR West)

Areas covered: Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kobe, Nara, Okayama, Tottori, and Okinawa

Ideal for: History buffs, foodies, anime and manga enthusiasts

While cultural giants Osaka and Kyoto need no introduction, you're in for more treats in West Japan. Dive deep into history at Hiroshima, walk through the World Heritage garden, the Korakuen, and even gorge down the world-famous premium-grade Kobe beef. Sounds inviting, doesn't it?

Starting price: ¥2,800

Dogo Onsen at twilight

Shikoku

Areas covered: Matsuyama, Takamatsu, Kochi, Kubokawa, and Tokushima

Ideal for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers, nature lovers, hikers

Get up close with the cultural offerings of Shikoku, the island of 88 temples, from the Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama to the Iya Valley and the scenic cycling route of Shimanami Kaido.

Caldera of Mount Aso in Japan

Kyushu

Areas covered: Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, and Bepu

Ideal for: History buffs, onsen enthusiasts, nature lovers

Traverse volcanic landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture of Kyushu, from bustling Fukuoka to relaxing hot onsen in Beppu. Kyushu is also home to Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan.

Starting price: ¥10,000

Frequently asked questions about the JR pass

What is a JR Pass?

The JR Pass is a discounted travel pass specifically designed for tourists visiting Japan. It grants you unlimited rides on most Japan Rail (JR) trains, including express and limited express trains, for a chosen period of 7, 14, or 21 days. You can also use it on some JR buses and the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains (except Nozomi and Mizuho).

Who is eligible for a JR Pass?

JR Passes are only available to temporary visitors to Japan holding a valid tourist visa. Residents of Japan and those entering the country under special visas are not eligible.

What are the different types of JR Passes?

JR Passes cater to diverse travel styles and plans by offering various options. Nationwide JR Passes grant you the freedom to explore all of Japan's main islands while Regional JR Passes are a cost-effective alternative if you have a clear itinerary focused on a specific area like Hokkaido, Kansai, or Kyushu. JR Passes also come in three durations: 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. Selecting the right duration ensures you can maximize the benefits of the pass within your planned travel period. For budget-conscious travelers who don't mind occasional busy periods, Regular Seating is the way to go. Otherwise, upgrade to a JR Green Class for wider, reclining seats with more legroom, along with additional amenities.

How much does a JR Pass cost?

JR train pass prices vary depending on the type of pass you choose (Nationwide vs. Regional, duration, Green Class vs. Regular). The starting price for a standard 7-day Nationwide JR Pass is ¥50,000, while Regional Passes can start as low as ¥2,800.

How do I purchase a JR Pass?

The most convenient way to purchase a JR Pass is online. You can book your pass in advance, specifying your planned travel date (departure date) and not the activation date. You’ll then receive your Exchange Order (not your ticket) at your doorstep. Once in Japan, you can trade your Order for the JR Pass.

How do I activate my JR Pass?

You'll receive an exchange order after purchasing your pass online. Upon arrival in Japan, exchange this order for a physical JR Pass at a designated JR office, usually located at major train stations and international airport terminals. Remember to fill out the activation form and present your passport for verification during this exchange.

How long is a JR Pass valid for?

While the exchange order is valid for 90 days after purchase, the activated JR Pass itself is only valid for 30 days. However, within those 30 days, you can enjoy unlimited rides for your chosen duration (7, 14, or 21 days).

Is the JR Pass worth it?

JR Passes can be cost-effective compared to purchasing individual tickets, especially for frequent travel and long distances. They offer convenience, flexibility, and access to various transportation options within the JR network. However, if you're staying in one city and making minimal train journeys, a JR Pass might not be the most economical option.

What is the difference between the regular JR Pass and the JR Green Pass?

The main difference lies in seat comfort and amenities. Regular seating offers standard comfortable seats, while Green Class provides wider, reclining seats with more legroom and additional amenities like complimentary drinks and towels. Green Class also comes with fewer crowds, making for a more relaxing travel experience.

Do I need to reserve seats with a JR Pass?

Reservations are not mandatory for regular seating on most JR trains, and you can usually find a seat even during peak times. However, they are recommended for longer journeys, peak seasons (Golden Week, Obon), or if traveling in a group. Reservations can be made for free at JR ticket offices. If you're a JR Green Pass holder, you can also reserve your seats online.

Can I use the JR Pass on local trains and subways?

While your JR Pass covers most Japan Rail trains, including express trains and the Shinkansen (excluding Nozomi and Mizuho lines), it is not valid on local trains operated by non-JR companies or subways within cities.

What trains are not covered by the JR Pass?

The JR Pass does not cover Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen, express bullet trains requiring separate tickets. Additionally, local trains operated by non-JR companies and subways within cities are not included.

Can I use the JR Pass on buses?

While some JR-affiliated buses are included in the JR Pass coverage, it primarily covers JR trains. It's advisable to check the specific inclusions of your chosen pass or inquire at a JR ticket office for confirmation.

What happens if I lose my JR Pass?

Unfortunately, lost or stolen JR Passes cannot be replaced or refunded.

Can I cancel or change my JR Pass?

No, JR Passes cannot be canceled or changed after purchase. This means you cannot modify your chosen travel dates or receive a refund if you decide not to use the pass. However, you can activate them any time within the next 3 months to use for your designated chosen period (7,14, or 21 days).