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Book JR East Pass
JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area)
- 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.
JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area)
- Witness the landscapes of Nagano and Niigata in Eastern Japan by making the most of the budget-friendly JR East 5-day train pass!
- Gain access to some of the best railway networks in the world, including the Narita Express, the Izu Kyuko lines, and the bullet train or the Shinkansen.
- Reserve seats to your desired destination with unlimited access to select train routes, starting from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport.
- Take in the rich heritage and culture of Japan as you pass through some main attractions like Mt. Fuji.
Inclusions
- Unlimited access to select JR East train lines for 5-days
Exclusions
- Routes not included in the valid area
- Tip: Carry your itinerary with you and the staff will help you board the trains hassle-free.
- The pass is only available for passport holders of foreign countries and is restricted to one per person. Your passport is required for travel and receipt of the voucher.
- Please click here to find the detailed map and route.
- Please carry your passport and receipt of the voucher while using this pass.
- This pass allows unlimited rides on all JR East train lines in the JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) designated area.
- 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.
Osaka JR PassJR East Pass
The JR East Pass offers a seamless and cost-effective travel solution for non-Japanese passport holders looking to explore the enchanting destinations of Eastern Japan. With unrestricted access to JR trains in the region, including captivating spots like Lake Tazawa, Geibikei Gorge, Matsushima, Ashikaga Flower Park, and beyond, travelers can discover the rich culture, scenic natural beauty, and bustling city life of Eastern Japan.
Why Get a JR East Pass?
- Unlimited Travel: Explore Eastern Japan freely with unlimited rides on JR trains.
- Cost-Effective: Save by paying once instead of buying individual tickets for long journeys. For example, you can save up to ¥6,310 when you buy a JR East Pass for the Tohoku Area instead of purchasing individual tickets.
- Easy Landmark Access: Reach iconic places like Lake Tazawa and Matsushima effortlessly.
- Hassle-Free Journey: Simplify travel logistics without constant ticket purchases.
- Flexibility: Choose fixed or flexible pass options based on your itinerary.
- Special Trains: Access Narita Express and high-speed Shinkansen for swift city-to-city travel.
- Extra Perks: Enjoy discounts on attractions, shopping, and dining for budget-friendly exploration.
- Regional Passes: Use the JR East Pass to access regional passes, expanding your exploration to Tohoku, Nagano, and Niigata regions.
- On-Board Facilities: Enjoy modern amenities like Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and clean restrooms on JR trains.
- Seat Reservations: Secure seats for free during peak travel periods, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Your JR East Pass Options Explained
Tohoku Area Pass
Nagano-Niigata Area Pass
- Validity: Valid for 5 consecutive days after the first use.
- Areas Covered: The scenic Tohoku region, which includes cities like Tokyo, Sendai, Aomori, Morioka, and more.
- Valid Trains: The JR East Tohoku Area Pass grants access to all JR East Shinkansen (bullet trains) and limited express trains, such as Tohoku Shinkansen, Yamabiko, Nasuno, and Hayate services.
- Major Junctions: Tokyo Station and Sendai Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: High-speed bullet trains (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Sendai and beyond.
- Validity: Valid for 5 consecutive days after the first use.
- Areas Covered: The picturesque Nagano and Niigata regions, including popular destinations like Matsumoto, Karuizawa, Gala Yuzawa, and more.
- Valid Trains: With the JR East Nagano-Niigata Area Pass, travelers can board all JR East Shinkansen (bullet trains) and limited express trains, such as Joetsu Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, and Kagayaki services.
- Major Junctions: Tokyo Station and Echigo-Yuzawa Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: High-speed bullet trains (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa and beyond.
Eligibility & Availability for JR East Pass
- Eligibility and Visa Requirements: The JR East Pass is exclusively available to non-Japanese passport holders and travelers must possess a "Temporary Visitor" visa status to be eligible for the pass.
- Child Travel: Children between the ages of 6 and 11 can receive a discounted pass, while those aged 5 and under can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat. However, children must travel with an adult pass holder.
- Availability and Voucher to Pass Conversion: The pass can be purchased outside Japan and is obtained as an exchange order (voucher). After arriving in Japan, voucher holders must convert it into the actual JR East Pass at designated JR East offices or specific exchange counters in major railway stations.
- Economy Travel and Reservations: The JR East Pass allows unlimited travel in standard-class cars, providing an economical means of exploring Eastern Japan. Seat reservations are available for free on most JR East trains, ensuring a convenient way to secure seats during busy travel periods.
- Geographical Validity: The pass covers JR East-operated trains and some buses and ferries within the designated regions, including Tokyo, Sendai, Aomori, Nagano, Niigata, and more, depending on the pass type chosen. However, it does not cover shinkansen (bullet trains) such as the Nozomi and Mizuho services.
What Can You See With a JR East Pass?
The JR East Pass allows you to view some breathtaking sites in Japan, including:
Tokyo
Immerse yourself in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, exploring iconic landmarks like the historic Tokyo Imperial Palace and the futuristic Tokyo Skytree.
Sendai
Discover the vibrant city of Sendai, known for its cultural offerings, including the Zuihoden Mausoleum and the picturesque Matsushima Bay.
Aomori
Experience Aomori's rich culture and natural beauty, with highlights like the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse, known for its vibrant Nebuta festival displays, and Hirosaki Castle, renowned for its stunning cherry blossom festivals.
Nagano
Explore Nagano's snow-capped mountains and historical sites, including Zenko-ji Temple and the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Niigata
Delight in Niigata's coastal charm and savor delicious seafood at the lively Pier Bandai, then embark on a journey to Sado Island to experience its traditional taiko drum performances.
Yamagata
Explore Yamagata's serene landscapes, including the Yamadera temple complex perched on a mountainside, against a breathtaking backdrop.
Frequently Asked Questions About JR East Pass
Where can I purchase a JR East Pass?
JR East Passes can be purchased online through authorized partner or travel agencies or through the official JR East website.
Are JR East Passes available online?
Yes, you can conveniently purchase JR East Passes online. Online booking often provides exclusive discounts, making it a cost-effective choice. Moreover, it allows for easy cancellations and modifications, granting flexibility in travel plans.
What are my different JR East Pass options?
JR East offers various pass types, including the JR East Tohoku Area Pass, Nagano-Niigata Area Pass, each providing access to different regions.
What can I do with my JR East Pass?
With a JR East Pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel on designated trains within the pass's validity, exploring Tohoku, Nagano, and Niigata regions.
How do I use a JR East Pass?
Purchase the JR East Pass before your travel, and after exchanging your pass voucher in Japan, present your JR East Pass to station staff when entering or exiting designated areas.
Are there any discounts on JR East Passes?
You can avail great discounts by booking JR East passes online. The JR East Pass also offers discounted rates for children aged 6 to 11, making it family-friendly and cost-effective.
What is the cancellation policy on JR East Passes?
JR East Passes can be refunded if the voucher exchange process has not been completed, subject to a cancellation fee.
Who can purchase a JR East Pass?
JR East Passes are exclusively available to non-Japanese passport holders with "Temporary Visitor" visa status.
What is the validity of my JR East Pass?
The JR East Pass is valid for five consecutive days from the date of first usage, post swapping the exchange voucher.
Are there JR East Passes for infants and children?
Children aged 5 and under can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat. Children aged 6 to 11 can purchase passes at discounted rates.
Can I use my JR East Pass for first-class train seats?
JR East Passes are only valid for standard-class seats on designated trains. However, Green Car tickets (first class) can be purchased at extra cost.
Can I modify my JR East Pass after purchase?
The validity start date cannot be changed after the pass is exchanged. However, the exchange date can be modified before the first day of validity i.e. limited modifications can be made to JR East Passes before they are collected.
Can I take a different train even if I have a reserved seat in another train with a JR East Pass?
Yes, you can change trains within the same route and class once. Please visit the ticket counter before the departure of either of the trains to adjust your reservation.
How do I find directions to a particular train station?
Most train stations have English signage, and you can also use navigation apps like Google Maps to find directions.
Where can I find the timetable for a train station?
The train timetables are usually available at stations, and you can also check them online on the official JR-East website.