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Book JR East Pass
- 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.
- 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.
- Enjoy majestic mountains, lakes, and hot springs of the Tohuku region with a JR East rail pass.
- Gain access to reserved and non-reserved for 5 consecutive days and take this chance to ride the Shinkansen, a high-speed bullet train.
- Enjoy railway lines from the Narita Airport and Haneda Airport and don’t worry about transporting yourself from the airport.
- Discover all that Japan has to offer with a visit to Aomori for beautiful mountains and take in the cherry blossoms with a stop at Iwate.
- Unwind on your trip with a relaxing onsen at Fukushima and test your taste buds with Miyagi’s specialized cuisine.
- Enjoy majestic mountains, lakes, and hot springs of the Tohuku region with a JR East rail pass.
- Gain access to reserved and non-reserved for 5 consecutive days and take this chance to ride the Shinkansen, a high-speed bullet train.
- Enjoy railway lines from the Narita Airport and Haneda Airport and don’t worry about transporting yourself from the airport.
- Discover all that Japan has to offer with a visit to Aomori for beautiful mountains and take in the cherry blossoms with a stop at Iwate.
- Unwind on your trip with a relaxing onsen at Fukushima and test your taste buds with Miyagi’s specialized cuisine.
Inclusions
- 5-day JR EAST PASS
- Access to reserved and non-reserved seats on Shinkansen, limited express, local trains and rapid bus transfers.
- This pass is only available for non-japanese passport holders.
- Please bring along your passport and e-ticket.
- The name, country of residence, and passport numbers entered when booking must be an exact match to the passports used when boarding.
- Click here for a detailed route map.
- 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.
Unlimited nationwide travel on Japan’s iconic trains, buses, and ferries with one pass
- Everything you get: Enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, airport transfer trains, JR buses & the JR Miyajima Ferry. You can choose a 7/14/21-day pass & enjoy global door-delivery with the flexibility to activate your pass within 30 days of exchange.
- Why choose this: The JR Pass is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore all of Japan, offering seamless travel & exclusive discounts at local haunts.
- Upgrades: Bask in the vibrant atmosphere of second-class seats, or choose first-class seats for more quiet and extra legroom.
Unlimited nationwide travel on Japan’s iconic trains, buses, and ferries with one pass
- Everything you get: Enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, airport transfer trains, JR buses & the JR Miyajima Ferry. You can choose a 7/14/21-day pass & enjoy global door-delivery with the flexibility to activate your pass within 30 days of exchange.
- Why choose this: The JR Pass is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore all of Japan, offering seamless travel & exclusive discounts at local haunts.
- Upgrades: Bask in the vibrant atmosphere of second-class seats, or choose first-class seats for more quiet and extra legroom.
Inclusions
- Validity: 7/14/21 consecutive days
- 1st or 2nd class seats (based on option selected)
- Access to unlimited train rides on JR lines, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, rapid & local trains
- Access to local JR buses
- Access to JR Miyajima ferry rides
- Access to airport transfer trains (Narita Express and Haruka Express)
- Free worldwide mail delivery of the Exchange Order
- Discounts across Japan on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Get full rail network details and route maps here
Exclusions
- Access to Nozomi and Mizuho trains
- Access to JR Bus Express bus routes
- Most Shinkansen and Limited Express trains are wheelchair-accessible. You can reserve your spot at any JR ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi). Note that if accessible seats are full, you may not be able to board your desired train.
- Wheelchairs must meet specific size and feature requirements. Generally, power wheelchairs with steering wheels aren’t allowed, but they may be permitted under certain conditions.
- The JR pass is only available to non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" visa stamp.
- Unlimited booking changes are allowed before the scheduled departure. Post departure, you will have exactly one hour to change the booking once.
- Want to cancel your booking? You have the option to do so until the day before your actual booking date.
- Refunds are subject to a 10% deduction on the original purchase price.
- Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive an Exchange Order via mail within two weeks.
- When you arrive in Japan, simply trade your Exchange Order for a JR Pass at an official exchange office.
- You can activate your pass anytime within 3 months from the issue date. At the time of activation, you can also select your starting travel day within the next 30 days.
- Seat reservations aren't mandatory, but if you want one, it is easy to book one for free at the ticket office or using the reserved-seat ticket machines at stations.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Guests from United States, France, Germany and over 13 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ella
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Exchanging the voucher was simple. Staff were kind, trains spotless. Made exploring Japan’s countryside easy and relaxing.
Chris
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Wish there were more Hikari services on some routes, but we managed fine. Definitely book seats early for popular trains.
Ben
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Best investment we made for our trip. Fast trains, reliable service, and overall amazing experience. Definitely getting one again next time.
Kimie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very easy to order and received on time. Activation wa also easy. We were able to make use of it immediately at the airport
Olivia
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
If you plan to travel extensively across Japan, the JR Pass is totally worth it. Highly recommend checking your routes beforehand though.
David
Jun 2025Verified booking
Completely seamless. Took all the hassle out of tranelling Japan by rail
nicholas
May 2025Verified booking
It was easy to use and reliable in its delivery.
Megan
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Trains were always on time, sometimes down to the second! Japan's rail system is truly world-class.
Daniel
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Absolutely loved it! Easy, convenient, and reliable. Wouldn't imagine traveling around Japan any other way.
Rachel
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Having the JR Pass made it easy to be spontaneous with day trips. Would 100% buy again for future trips.
Ethan
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Quick delivery of the exchange voucher. Smooth activation process. Very happy with the whole experience.
Grace
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Buying individual tickets every time would have been a pain. This pass made everything simple and smooth.
Zentai
May 2025Verified booking
Russell
May 2025Verified booking
Ronan
May 2025Verified booking
Monica
May 2025Verified booking
James
Apr 2025Verified booking
Lutz
Apr 2025Verified booking
Barbara
Apr 2025Verified booking
Alex
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
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Upgrade to unlimited travel!
Go beyond regional limits and experience the freedom of traveling all over Japan.
Japan Rail PassJR East Pass
Make the most of Tokyo
Why get the JR East Pass?
Cost-effective exploration
Get unlimited rides on JR East trains within the area of your choice and avoid splurging on individual tickets. JR East Pass prices are fixed upfront. Plus, there’s no need to worry about additional costs or hidden charges, which are frequently included with single tickets.
Your JR East Pass options
JR East Pass: Tohoku area
Tohoku is the northeastern region of Japan's main island, Honshu. This pass unlocks unlimited rides on JR East trains within the regions of Tokyo, Sendai, Aomori, Morioka, and more, for five consecutive days. Ride the Shinkansen, the bullet train, to Sendai, delve into the fascinating Michinoku Kokubun Cho temple complex, or visit the Towada National Park —the possibilities are endless.
- Validity: 5 days
- All areas covered: Sendai (Miyagi), Aomori (Aomori), Fukushima (Fukushima), Kakunodate Samurai District (Akita), Hirosaki Castle (Aomori), Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Tochigi), Towada-Hakusan National Park (Akita and Aomori), Matsushima Bay (Miyagi), Nikko National Park (Tochigi).
- Shinkansen Access: Yes. From Tokyo to Sendai and further.
- JR train access: Tohoku Shinkansen, Yamabiko, Nasuno, and Hayate services, Tokyo Monorail, Izu Kyuko Line, Aoimori Railway Line, Iwate Galaxy Railway (IGR) Line, Sendai Airport Transit Line
- Major junctions: Tokyo Station and Sendai Station for line changes.
JR East Pass: Nagano & Niigata area
Nagano and Niigata are neighboring prefectures located in the central part of Japan's main island, Honshu. Beyond skiing, Nagano offers beautiful scenery year-round, with hiking trails, hot springs (onsens), and historical sites like Zenko-ji temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples. Niigata is known as "the Rice Bowl of Japan" due to its fertile plains producing some of the country's best rice.
- Validity: 5 days
- All areas covered: Nagano (Nagano), Niigata (Niigata), Matsumoto (Nagano), Hakuba Valley (Nagano), Joshinetsu Kogen National Park (Nagano and Gunma), Myoko-Kogen National Park (Niigata), Nozawa Onsen (Nagano), Yudanaka Onsen (Niigata), Ogoya Onsen (Niigata), Matsumoto Castle (Nagano), Kanazawa (Ishikawa - accessible with limited travel outside the Nagano and Niigata area), Shonaigashi Coast (Yamagata).
- Shinkansen Access: Yes. From Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa and further.
- JR train access: Joetsu Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, Kagayaki services, all JR East Shinkansen (bullet trains) and limited express trains, JR East Lines, Tokyo Monorail, Izu Kyuko Line, Hokuetsu Express and Tokimeki Railway (between Naoetsu and Arai)
- Major junctions: Tokyo Station and Echigo-Yuzawa Station for line changes.
Areas covered with the JR East Pass
Tokyo
Japan's vibrant capital, Tokyo, is known for its iconic landmarks like Shibuya Crossing and historic temples like Senso-ji, offering a taste of both modern and traditional Japan.
Don’t Miss:
- Tokyo Tower
- Foodie Tour
Sendai
Sendai, a bustling city in Miyagi Prefecture, is famous for its delicious beef tongue (gyutan) and the beautiful Matsushima Bay, dotted with hundreds of small islands.
Don’t Miss:
- Osaki Hachiman Shrine
- Matsushima Bay Sightseeing Cruise
Aomori
The northern city, Aomori, is known for the Nebuta Matsuri summer festival with its giant illuminated floats and as the gateway to the scenic natural beauty of the Hakkoda Mountains.
Don’t Miss:
- Nebuta Museum WA RASSE
- Apple Picking during the Fall Season
Nagano
Nagano, the 1998 Winter Olympics host city, offers world-class skiing in Hakuba Valley and relaxing soaks in the renowned Nozawa Onsen hot springs.
Don’t Miss:
- Zenko-ji Temple
- Soba Noodle Making Class
Niigata
Niigata, a charming coastal city on the Sea of Japan, is famed for its fresh seafood, the relaxing Yudanaka Onsen with snow monkeys, and its prestigious Koshihikari rice.
Don’t Miss:
- Niigata Prefectural Museum of Modern Art
- Skiing in Myoko-Kogen National Park
Yamagata
Inland prefecture, Yamagata, is known for its stunning Shonai Coast with dramatic rock formations and its delicious cherries, celebrated annually during the Yamagata Sakurambo Festival.
Don’t Miss:
- Mount Gassan
- Onsen hopping in the Ginzan Hot Spring area
How to buy & activate your JR East Pass
The JR East Pass grants you access to an unforgettable Eastern Japan adventure. Here's a breakdown of the purchasing and activation process:
Purchase your JR East Pass
Choose the JR East Pass that you wish to buy, such as the Nagano-Niigata Area Pass or the Tohoku Area Pass. Purchase your preferred JR East Pass online well in advance online.
Receive your Exchange Order
Upon online purchase, you'll receive a confirmation email with a voucher (e-ticket).
Activate your JR East Pass in Japan
Head to the JR East Exchange Office with your passport and the original exchange order (voucher). Inform the staff of your desired activation date, which should be within one month of redemption. You cannot activate the pass before arriving in Japan.
Collect your JR East Pass
The staff will verify your documents. At the correct ticket counter, please provide the voucher on your phone along with your official photo ID to exchange it for a physical pass.
Additional info about booking your East JR Pass:
- Ticket redemption points: The e-ticket and passport must be presented when picking up your JR East Pass at the specified location in Japan. You cannot pick up a pass using a copy of your passport. The JR East ticket office at Narita Airport Terminal 1 and Narita Airport Terminal 2·3 Station is only open when the JR East Travel Service Centers at those stations are closed.
- Reserving seats: While the JR East Pass grants access to trains, consider reserving seats on Shinkansen bullet trains and Limited Express trains, especially during peak seasons or for long journeys. This ensures a comfortable ride and avoids potential overcrowding.
- Non-Japanese passport holder only: This pass is valid for passengers traveling on non-Japanese passports. Please remember to bring your travel documents, such as ID cards and passports with valid visas, when you leave.
- One pass per person: There is only one pass available per order, so please reserve passes separately for each visitor.
- Details matter: Please provide accurate personal information that can be verified using your passport, such as your name and residence address, as well as accurate personal data. Make sure you have your passport and Temporary Visitor Stamp for a smooth exchange.
- Activate when ready to travel: Remember that your JR East Pass can only be activated once in Japan. To make the most of the validity period, select an activation date that corresponds to your travel itinerary.
- Unlimited travel: As long as the pass is still valid, you are welcome to use it as often as you like. That means you can travel as many times as you like wihtin your 5-day window. The initial turn-on is all that is required. Every station does not require it to be stamped.
- The essentials: When using this pass, please make sure you have your passport and the voucher receipt with you.
- Not included: The passes do not apply to non-JR trains, buses, ferries, or any other form of transportation that JR East Pass does not run.
Top sights & things to do in East Japan
See all photos
Visit East Japan with your JR East Pass: Your itinerary
5 day-Tohuku itinerary
Day 1: Sendai
- Arrive in Sendai, the bustling capital of Miyagi Prefecture.
- Dive into the lively atmosphere of the Ichibancho shopping arcades, browsing local shops and specialty stores.
- Explore the historic Osaki Hachiman Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine dating back to the 17th century.
- Savor Sendai's signature dish, gyutan (grilled beef tongue), for dinner. (Estimated Shinkansen travel time to Sendai from Tokyo: 2 hours)
Day 2: Matsushima Bay (Travel time: Sendai to Matsushima: 1 hour by train; Matsushima to Kakunodate: 2-3 hours with transfers)
- Take a scenic train ride to Matsushima, a picturesque bay dotted with over 260 islands.
- In the afternoon, travel to Kakunodate, a charming samurai district lined with Edo traditional wooden houses.
- Stroll along the well-preserved samurai residences, and admire their architecture and peaceful gardens.
- Experience a local teahouse and indulge in traditional Japanese sweets before returning to Sendai for the night.
Day 3: Nikko National Park (Travel time from Sendai: 2 hours, 30 minutes by train)
- Take a day trip to Nikko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a Shinto shrine complex.
- See Kegon Falls, a cascading waterfall plunging 97 meters, and enjoy views of Lake Chuzenji.
- Nature lovers can end their day with the Nikko Botanical Garden.
Day 4: Aomori City (Travel time from Sendai: 2 hours, 30 minutes by train)
- Journey to Aomori City, known for its vibrant summer festival, the Nebuta Matsuri. (If traveling outside the festival period, consider Hirosaki for its stunning castle and apple orchards instead.)
- Outside Festival Dates: Visit Nebuta Museum WARASSE, and learn the history and artistry of the Nebuta Matsuri floats.
- See the Sannai Maruyama Site, an archaeological excavation site revealing the remains of a Jomon period settlement.
Day 5: Departure or additional exploration (Estimated travel time from Aomori to Tokyo: 4 hours, 30 minutes by Shinkansen)
- Depending on your flight schedule, depart from Sendai or explore another Tohoku region city with your JR East Pass (Tohoku Area). Consider options like Fukushima City for its serene natural beauty or Yamagata Prefecture for its charming Shonai Coast and delicious cherries.
5-day Niigata & Nagano Itinerary
Day 1: Nagano City
- Arrive in Nagano City and check into your accommodation.
- Explore Zenko-ji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple with a hidden Amida Buddha statue unveiled only every six years.
- In the evening, enjoy a delicious soba noodle dinner, a local Nagano specialty. (Estimated Shinkansen travel time to Nagano from Tokyo: 1 hour, 30 minutes)
Day 2: Hakuba Valley (Travel time from Nagano: 1 hour, 30 minutes by train)
- Head to Hakuba Valley, a world-renowned ski paradise.
- Winter: Hit the slopes and enjoy the diverse terrain, catering to all skill levels.
- Non-Winter: Explore the charming village, indulge in local cuisine, try snowshoeing, or go hiking in warmer months.
Day 3: Matsumoto City (Travel time from Hakuba: 1 hour, 15 minutes by train)
- Take a scenic train ride to Matsumoto City, known for its impressive Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest castles.
- Stroll through the beautiful Matsumoto Castle Park and admire the surrounding gardens.
Day 4: Niigata City (Travel time from Matsumoto: 2 hours, 40 minutes by Shinkansen; Travel Time from Niigata to Yudanaka Onsen: 1 hour, 15 minutes by local train)
- Take a Shinkansen bullet train to Niigata City, on the Sea of Japan.
- Visit the Niigata Prefectural Museum of Modern Art or indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling Niigata Dotombori Market.
- In the afternoon, travel to the charming Yudanaka Onsen, a traditional hot spring village nestled in the mountains.
- Experience the unique "onsen hopping" culture by soaking in the village's steaming hot springs, some of which are even frequented by wild snow monkeys.
Day 5: Departure or Additional exploration (Estimated travel time from Niigata to Tokyo: 2 hours by Shinkansen)
- Depending on your flight schedule, you can either depart from Nagano or Niigata City.
- If you have additional time, consider exploring Joshinetsu Kogen National Park for scenic hikes or further skiing opportunities. Alternatively, visit the historic town of Obuse in Nagano Prefecture, known for its beautiful landscapes and association with Japanese artist Hokusai.
Frequently asked questions about the JR East Pass
Is the JR East Pass really worth it?
The JR East Pass can be an excellent value, especially if you intend to travel extensively within the area covered by your chosen pass. Consider the number of train trips you plan to take and the total cost of individual tickets compared to the JR East Pass price.
Does the JR East Pass cover the Narita Express train from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
Yes, the JR East Pass indeed covers the Narita Express (N’EX) train, providing a convenient and efficient transfer between Narita International Airport and Tokyo. The seats must be reserved separately after purchasing the tickets.
My chosen JR East Pass covers the Shinkansen. Does it automatically include reserved seating, or do I need to make separate reservations?
While your JR East Pass allows access to Shinkansen bullet trains, seat reservations are not automatically included. To guarantee a seat on a specific Shinkansen train, especially during peak seasons or for long journeys, it is recommended to make separate seat reservations in advance.
Does the JR East Pass cover any local JR buses or other modes of transport?
No, the JR East Pass is valid for JR East trains only. It does not cover local JR buses, subways, taxis, or other forms of transportation.
Can I use the JR East Pass on non-consecutive days?
Unfortunately, JR East passes are not valid for non-consecutive days. The pass is valid for a continuous five-day period from the activation date you choose.
Is there a way to extend the pass or purchase additional days?
No, there is currently no option to extend the validity period of your JR East Pass or purchase additional days.
Are there any scenic train rides included with the JR East Pass?
Absolutely! Many beautiful train rides are included with the JR East Pass. Some popular options include the Shinkansen bullet trains themselves, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days (depending on the route), and the journey along the coast between Tokyo and Aomori on the Tohoku Shinkansen.
What’s not covered by the JR East Pass?
The JR East Pass does not cover local transportation (buses, subways, taxis), limited express trains requiring separate seat reservations (unless specifically included in your pass type), meals or accommodation, or attraction entrance fees.
What happens if I lose my JR East Pass?
Unfortunately, lost JR East passes cannot be replaced. It's important to keep your pass safe and readily accessible throughout your trip.
Can I get a refund on my JR East Pass?
Refunds are not available for JR East Passes.
From happy customers
Wolfgang
MalaysiaApr, 2024
Booking online was straightforward and comfortable. Exchange at Kansai intl. Airport same - should say I have done this before. I had a great time with the JR West Wide Area Pass. Going to and around in Okayama, Kurashiki, Kobe and plenty of places inside Osaka. Only thing - I almost deleted your email titling »Your experience in Tokyo«. Maybe you should be a bit mire careful about these lines if you want more reviews? :)
5 Day JR Kansai Wide Area Pass
Shaine
United KingdomMar, 2024
The pass worked perfectly. Just find the vending machines that exchange the voucher to the pass in Kyoto station first and scan your passport or ask staff for assistance. It does not include Kyoto bus though. Thanks Headout!
JR Pass: Kansai with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Ben
Apr, 2025
Best investment we made for our trip. Fast trains, reliable service, and overall amazing experience. Definitely getting one again next time.
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
Ella
Apr, 2025
Exchanging the voucher was simple. Staff were kind, trains spotless. Made exploring Japan’s countryside easy and relaxing.
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
Olivia
Mar, 2025
If you plan to travel extensively across Japan, the JR Pass is totally worth it. Highly recommend checking your routes beforehand though.
JR Pass: Unlimited Travel Across the Whole of Japan