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Book JR West Pass
JR-West Kansai Area Rail Pass (1/2/3/4 Days)
- Exploring the Kansai region is so seamless and hassle-free with a comprehensive JR-Rail West Pass
- Enjoy unlimited rides in the region and visit cities like Osaka, Kyoto, Shiga, Nara & more.
- Choose between a 1, 2, 3, or 4-day Pass to suit your travel needs.
- Your Pass gives you access to Kansai Airport Express Haruka, Rapid and Special Rapid Services, and JR-West trains
- Skip queues to redeem your JR pass at new digital redemption machines at JR Pass ticket offices.
- With a 90-day extended validity, you have all the time you need to plan well in advance. Unused tickets can also be fully refunded during the validity.
- Click here for the JR Line Route Map (Kansai Region).
- Please note: this Pass is eligible only for non-Japanese passport holders with a Temporary Visitor Visa and having permanent residence outside of Japan for 6+ months.
Inclusions
- JR Kansai Pass valid for 1/2/3/4 days
- Unlimited train rides in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu (refer to the map here)
- 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)
When purchasing/receiving a Kansai Area Pass, vouchers for the Kyoto City Subway, Keihan Railway, and Hankyu Railway will also be provided.
For more information on using Kyoto City Subway, Keihan Railway, and Hankyu Railway, please click here.
Exclusions
- Attraction tickets
- Bullet Train Ticket (Shinkansen)
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
5 Day JR Kansai Wide Area Pass
- Get a pass that allows unlimited rides and exploration around the Kansai region
and visit cities from Osaka and Kyoto to Okayama and Takamatsu. - Get access to unlimited rides on Sanyo Shinkansen, Express Trains, Rapid Services, and local trains for 5 consecutive days.
- Redeem your pass by skipping the long lines at the digital redemption machines in the Osaka Kansai International Airport.
- Click here to see all the valid train routes that you can conveniently avail of with this pass!
Inclusions
- 5-Day JR Kansai Wide Area Pass:
- Reserved seats redeemable up to 6 times (If the number of rides exceeds the number of reserved seats, the original ticket can be used to board the unreserved train directly)
- Non-reserved seats on Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka to/from Okayama),
Express Trains Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kounotori, and Super Hakuto (Kyoto to/from Kamigori).
- Kyoto Tango Railway, Wakayama Electric Railway, the Sanin Main Line between Hamasaka and Tottori, and West JR Bus services within the area
- Non-reserved seats on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen
- Non-reserved seats on Express Trains
- Special Rapid Services
- Rapid Services
- Local trains on JR-West Conventional lines
- JR Buses
Exclusions
- Attraction Tickets
- This pass is eligible only for non-Japanese passport holders with a Temporary Visitor Visa and a permanent residence outside of Japan for 6+ months.
- The reserved seat ticket can be redeemed six times. If the number of rides exceeds the number of reserved seats, the original ticket can be used to board the unreserved train directly
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
5 Days JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass
- Use this JR Kansai and Hiroshima Pass and explore Japan in 5 days.
- Get access to Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Hiroshima, and more!
- Skip the line with your JR pass as you enjoy Japan’s sophisticated railway systems and ferries.
- Explore the Kansai and Hiroshima areas at ease.
- Spend your time visiting two World Heritage sites, the Itsukushima Shrine and the A-Bomb Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial.
Inclusions
- Unlimited train rides in specified areas
- Non-reserved seats on:
- Special rapid services and local trains on the 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
- For more information, click here for the train route map
Exclusions
- Sanyo Shinkansen (Hiroshima ↔ Hakata)
- Tokaido Shinkansen (Shin- Osaka ↔ Tokyo)
- Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata ↔ Kagoshima- Chuo)
- This pass is only valid for non-Japanese passport holders with a “Temporary Visitor” visa stamp on their passport. Those non-Japanese passport holders with permanent residence in Japan are not eligible.
- All passengers must have their travel documents (passports, ID cards, valid visas) ready, prior to boarding.
- To check the updated operating hours of any of the Japan-wide JR ticket counters, please check the official portal and pick up your Pass within those hours.
- Click here for the Station's operating hours.
- 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.
7 Days Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass
- Explore the major cities of Kansai and Hokuriku with the 7 Days Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass.
- Travel to places like Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kansai Airport, Himeji and Wakayama, Kanazawa and Joetsu-Myoko in a hassle-free manner with just one pass!
- Access rides on the Sanyo Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, Express Trains, Rapid Services, and local trains.
- Visit iconic places like the Kenrokuen Garden, Eiheiji Temple, or the dinosaur museums in Katsuyama Fukui.
- This Area Pass gives you access to the Sanyo Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, Express Trains, and local trains, and makes for the easiest and fastest way to explore Kansai and Hokuriku.
Inclusions
Travel in:
- Bullet Train SANYO SHINKANSEN (Shin-Osaka-Okayama)
- 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
Travel in:
- Bullet Train HOKURIKU SHINKANSEN (Joetsu-Myoko-Tokyo)
- Bullet Train TOKAIDO SHINKANSEN (Shin-Osaka-Tokyo)
- Bullet Train SANYO SHINKANSEN (Okayama-Hakata)
- IR Ishikawa Railway
- Ainokaze Toyama Railway
- This pass is only Valid only for non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" Visa stamp on the passport. Non-Japanese passport holders with permanent residence in Japan cannot use this pass.
- View the operating hours of the train stations here.
- The pass is valid for the pass holder only.
- Please carry your passport along while traveling using the Area Pass.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 3 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
5 Day JR Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Pass
- Get 5 days to board Japan’s efficient and world-famous bullet trains to travel to multiple attractions in the Hiroshima-Yamaguchi area.
- Redeem your pass conveniently and explore the areas of Hiroshima, Onomichi, Hagi, Miyajima, and Yamaguchi.
- Board high-speed trains like the Sanyo Shinkansen (Mihara - Hakata), local trains, express trains, and more to reach your intended destination faster than ever.
- Get a chance to hop on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen for a fun ride, with colorful plush seats and interiors to transport you back to your childhood!
- Enjoy unlimited travel, 6 reserved seating opportunities, and rides aboard the Chugoku bus route, West Miyajima Ferry, Rapid Services, and more.
Inclusions
- 5-day unlimited travel in Hiroshima-Yamaguchi area
- Bullet Train Sanyo Shinkansen (Mihara - Hakata)
- Hello Kitty Shinkansen
- Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kounotori, & Super Hakuto Express trains
- Special rapid services & rapid services
- Local trains on JR-West Conventional lines
- Jr West Miyajima ferry (Miyajimaguchi⇔Miyajima)
- Chugoku JR route buses
Exclusions
- Bullet train Sanyo Shinkansen (Mihara - Shin-Osaka)
- Bullet train Tokaido Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka - Tokyo)
- Bullet train Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata- Kagoshima-Chuo)
- Click here to know more about the train routes.
- The experience is restricted for guests who are Japanese Passport holders or Non-Japanese passport holders with a permanent residence in Japan.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
5 Day JR Okayama-Hiroshima-Yamaguchi Area Pass
- Spend 5 days exploring Okayama, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi with an unlimited rail and bus pass.
- Board the the famed Sanyo Shinkansen bullet train in Japan to take advantage of up to 6 reserved seats without the hassle of making reservations.
- Save money by taking unlimited rides on express trains, special rapid services, local trains on the JR West Conventional lines, Chugoku JR route buses, and the luxurious Hello Kitty Shinkansen.
- Use the pass to take the JR West Miyajima Ferry to Miyajima Island and enjoy the stunning views.
- Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to honor the victims of the atomic blast and wander through the city's gorgeous Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park nearby.
- Tour the lovely Japanese gardens in Yamaguchi City, which date back to the 15th century. The Rurikoji Temple, one of the most stunning temples in Japan, is among the city's other attractions.
- Explore Okayama Castle, a magnificent example of feudal-era architecture, and Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens.
Inclusions
- 5-day unlimited travel in the Okayama-Hiroshima-Yamaguchi area
- Reserved and non-reserved seats on the following JR-West Conventional lines:
- Access to Jr West Miyajima ferry (Miyajimaguchi - Miyajima)
- Access to some Chugoku JR route buses
- Access to EKIRIN rent-a-cycle shop
Exclusions
- Bullet train Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka - Okayama)
- Conventional lines on Kyushu Island
- Attraction tickets
- Click here to know more about the train routes.
- This pass is valid only for non-Japanese passport holders, with a visa stamp saying 'Temporary Visitor' on the passport that you can secure at immigration.
- The experience is restricted for guests who are Japanese passport holders or non-Japanese passport holders with permanent residence in Japan.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
Osaka JR PassJR West Pass
Top things to do in Osaka
The Japan Rail West Pass is a convenient and cost-effective travel option for non-Japanese passport holders exploring the wonders of Western Japan. With unlimited access to JR trains in the region, including iconic cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and more, travelers can seamlessly experience the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cityscapes of Western Japan.
Why Get a JR West Pass?
Obtaining a JR West Pass offers numerous compelling reasons for travelers planning to explore Western Japan:
- Unlimited Access: Enjoy limitless travel on the JR train network, giving you the freedom to explore multiple cities and attractions without extra costs.
- Cost-Effective: Save money by opting for a single pass instead of individual tickets for long-distance travel in Western Japan. For example, you can save up to ¥4,050 when you buy a JR West Pass for the Kansai Area instead of purchasing individual tickets.
- Easy Attraction Access: Access iconic destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima effortlessly, immersing yourself in the region's rich culture.
- Hassle-Free Travel: Say goodbye to ticket-buying hassles at every station. The JR West Pass streamlines your journey for a stress-free experience.
- Flexibility: Choose between fixed validity or a flexi-pass option, ideal for travelers with varying schedules.
- Special Train Access: Some passes grant access to special trains like the Haruka Express to Kansai International Airport, ensuring a convenient start or end to your journey.
- On-Board Facilities: Comfortable JR trains with Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and clean restrooms.
- Seat Reservations: Complimentary seat reservations for most trains, peace of mind during peak seasons.
- Affordable Tie-Ups: Enjoy discounted admission to local attractions, enriching your journey.
Your JR West Pass Options Explained
Kansai Area Pass
Sanyo-San'in Area Pass
Kansai Wide Area Pass
Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass
Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass
Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Pass
Okayama - Hiroshima - Yamaguchi Area Pass
Setouchi Area Pass
San'in-Okayama Area Pass
- Validity: This pass allows unlimited travel for 1/2/3/4 consecutive days within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Kansai region which includes major cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji, among others.
- Valid Trains: The pass grants access to limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered area.
- Major Junctions: Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station for line changes to other regions.
- Speedy Travel: High-speed bullet trains (Shinkansen) from Shin-Osaka for quick intercity travel.
- Validity: 7 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Sanyo region which extends from Kyoto in Kansai to Hiroshima, as well as the San'in region, including cities like Matsue and Izumo.
- Valid Trains: The pass allows unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Shin-Osaka Station and Hiroshima Station for line transfers.
- Speedy Travel: Sanyo Shinkansen bullet trains connect Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
- Validity: 5 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: The Kansai Wide Area Pass extends further than the Kansai Area Pass, including not only the Kansai region but also areas like Okayama, Kurashiki, and Kinosaki Onsen.
- Valid Trains: The pass provides unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Kyoto Station, Osaka Station, and Okayama Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Shinkansen services from Kyoto and Shin-Osaka for high-speed travel.
- Validity: 5 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: The Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass covers the Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji, as well as the Hiroshima region.
- Valid Trains: The pass allows unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Shinkansen services from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima.
- Ferries: Access to the Miyajima Island ferry for scenic exploration.
- Validity: 7 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Kansai region featuring Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji, as well as the Hokuriku region, covering cities like Kanazawa and Toyama.
- Valid Trains: The pass grants access to unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Shinkansen services from Kyoto to Kanazawa and Toyama.
- Validity: 5 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Hiroshima region, including Hiroshima and its attractions, as well as Yamaguchi prefecture.
- Valid Trains: The pass allows unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Hiroshima Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Hiroshima offers convenient connections to most other regions like Okayama, Kokura, etc.
- Validity: 5 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Okayama and its surroundings, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi prefecture.
- Valid Trains: The pass provides unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Okayama Station and Hiroshima Station for line transfers.
- Speedy Travel: Shinkansen services from Okayama to Hiroshima.
- Validity: 7 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: Setouchi region, including Okayama, Takamatsu, and Matsuyama.
- Valid Trains: The pass grants access to unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered area.
- Major Junctions: Okayama Station and Hiroshima Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Shinkansen services connect Okayama and Hiroshima.
- Ferries: Setouchi Sea Line ferry service to experience the beauty of Seto Inland Sea islands.
- Validity: 4 consecutive days of travel within the designated area.
- Areas Covered: San'in region including cities like Tottori, Matsue, and Izumo, as well as Okayama and its surroundings.
- Valid Trains: The pass allows unlimited travel on limited express, rapid, and local trains operated by JR West within the covered areas.
- Major Junctions: Okayama Station for line changes.
- Speedy Travel: Convenient connections within Okayama and San'in regions.
Eligibility & Availability for JR West Pass
- Eligibility: The pass is for non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" visa status, typically issued for tourism.
- Child Travel: Children aged 6-11 get discounts, while those 5 and under travel free with an adult pass holder.
- Purchase and Conversion: Buy the pass abroad as an exchange voucher and convert it to the JR West Pass at designated offices or stations in Japan.
- Economy Travel: Enjoy unlimited standard-class travel for cost-effective exploration. Free seat reservations are available on most JR West trains.
- Coverage: Valid for JR West trains, some buses, and ferries in regions like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Excludes shinkansen like Nozomi and Mizuho.
What Can You See With a JR West Pass?
The JR West Pass allows you to view some breathtaking sites in Japan.
Nara
Meet the friendly deers roaming freely at Nara Park, as you head to Todai-ji Temple. Inside stands the Daibutsu, Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue, symbolizing profound serenity.
Mount Koya
Experience the life of a monk at this renowned mountain famous for its temple lodging. Perched on an 800-meter-high plateau nestled among the mountain’s eight peaks. You'll discover the essence of Japanese culture and the headquarters of the Kōyasan sect of Shingon Buddhism.
Okayama
Delight in the beauty of Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," reflecting meticulous landscape design. Marvel at Okayama Castle, an emblem of the city's historical heritage.
Hiroshima
Experience the poignant history of Hiroshima at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and pay tribute to the memory of the atomic bomb's impact while celebrating the city's enduring hope for peace.
Miyajima Island
Journey to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its famous "floating" torii gate. Hike Mount Misen for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Kyoto
Embrace the charm of Kyoto's ancient temples like Kiyomizu-Dera and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and scenic serenity.
Kobe
Cherish the stunning waterfront scenery of Kobe Harborland, featuring trendy shops and gourmet delights, and savor some world-renowned Kobe beef, a must-try culinary delicacy for meat lovers.
Kinosaki Onsen
Take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen, nestled amidst picturesque willow-lined streets. Experience Japanese hospitality at its finest, all while donning a yukata and exploring the charming town.
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions About JR West Pass
Where can I purchase a JR West Pass?
JR West Passes can be purchased online through the official JR West website or authorized travel agencies before arriving in Japan.
Are JR West Passes available online?
Yes, JR West Passes can be purchased 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 West Pass options?
JR West offers various pass types with different durations, such as Kansai Area Pass, Sanyo-San'in Area Pass, and Kansai Wide Area Pass and many more.
Are there any discounts on JR West Passes?
You can always book JR West Passes online to get the best deals and discounts.
What can I do with my JR West Pass?
The JR West Pass provides unlimited travel on JR trains, buses, and some ferries in the designated area, connecting you to most regions in the west. Moreover, iconic attractions have a tie-up with JR Pass, providing discounted rates to JR Pass holders, making exploration seamless.
How do I use a JR West Pass?
After arriving in Japan, exchange your e-voucher for the JR West Pass at designated JR West offices or exchange counters in major stations.
What is the cancellation policy on JR West Passes?
JR West Passes once collected cannot be canceled. However, unissued JR West Passes can be refunded before the first day of validity, subject to a cancellation fee.
Who can purchase a JR West Pass?
Only non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" visa status are eligible to purchase JR West Passes.
What is the validity of my JR West Pass?
The JR West Pass offers consecutive day travel within the designated area, with different pass durations available.
Are there JR West 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 receive discounted child passes.
Can I use my JR West Pass for first-class train seats?
The JR West Pass allows unlimited travel in standard-class cars but does not cover first-class seats. You can upgrade your pass for the Green Car (first-class) at an extra cost.
Can I modify my JR West 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 before exchanging the voucher for a pass.
Can I take a different train even if I have a reserved seat on another train?
Yes, you can change trains within the same route and class once, before the departure of either of the trains. Please visit the ticket counter 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 of a train station?
The train timetables are usually available at stations, and you can also check them online on the official JR-West website.