What is the Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass is a unique pass that allows you unlimited rides on the trains, buses, and even ferries operated by six JR companies—JR Hokkaido, JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Shikoku, and JR Kyushu. This extensive transportation network will get you almost anywhere you want to go on your trip to Japan and notably covers rides on Japan’s world-famous high-speed Bullet Trains aka Shinkansen. Tokyo and Kyoto may be the biggest destinations on your travel itinerary, and the Japan Rail Pass makes travel between these two cities easy. Also, the Shinkansen can take you places like Akita, Nagano, Kanazawa, and Hiroshima as well. So if you want to travel extensively during your time in Japan, the pass is a great option.

How do you Purchase the Japan Rail Pass?

The first thing to note is that, in order to purchase the Japan Rail Pass, you must be a visitor to Japan from a foreign country and also be a Temporary Visitor. You must be able to present your passport and Temporary Visitor stamp when you physically pick up your rail pass upon arrival in Japan. Before you purchase your pass, decide which version of the pass best fits your travel plans. Passes are available for three different durations: 7-days, 14-days, and 21-days. After choosing the duration of your pass, decide whether you want to ride regular cars or upgrade your pass to ride in the more luxurious Green Cars. Passes can be purchased through overseas travel agencies. However, you can also purchase the pass directly from the Japan Rail Pass website,during designated business hours. Either way, your purchase must be made from overseas. After purchasing the pass, you will be issued a number or exchange order. Present this and your passport at one of the designated JR ticket offices in Japan to receive your pass.
 

JAPAN RAIL PASS Online Reservation

How to pick up the JAPAN RAIL PASS

Things to Keep in Mind when Using your Japan Rail Pass

Once you have your pass in hand you’re ready to start traveling on the JR network. But be aware that there are plenty of rail lines run by private train companies and municipal subways, which are not covered by the pass. Also, there are some restrictions to the pass as well. The biggest limitation facing travelers is that the fastest train on the route between Tokyo and Kyoto—the Nozomi Shinkansen—requires an additional booking and fee if you choose to ride it. However, there are plenty of other options like the Kodama and Hikari, which will transport you quickly and comfortably between the two cities. Plus Hotel Tavinos has locations in both Kyoto and Tokyo! So feel free to come and go between these two major destinations with your Japan Rail Pass.

Writer

Rachael Aoki
Originally from the East Coast of the United States, Rachael has called Japan home for over a decade. She enjoys discovering destinations that are popular with locals from quaint cafes to hole-in-the-wall eateries and sharing that information with visitors from overseas. She also loves taking trips to onsen and is always up for a trip to Hakone, Kanagawa.