Japan has a highly organized metro and train transportation system, making it very easy to reach any destination simply by taking one of these transit options.
Because of this, people living in Japan use these as their primary modes of transportation, and it’s recommended that any visitor do the same.
For this reason, purchasing the Japan Rail Pass can be very helpful during your visit, allowing you to save a lot of money and visit all the places on your itinerary with ease.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Japan Rail Pass:
What is the Japan Rail Pass and what is it used for?
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The Japan Rail Pass is a pass that provides unlimited travel on metros, trains, and monorails, as long as they’re operated by the JR Group lines.
Additionally, it covers certain JR-affiliated bus and ferry lines, and includes the Shinkansen, or bullet train, which is an experience in itself.
This means that to get around Tokyo and other areas of Japan quickly, comfortably, and efficiently, the best choice is to buy the pass.
Without the Japan Rail Pass, individual trips using available transportation can add up to a considerable amount. The pass allows you to save money and simplify your travel experience in Japan.
Which transportation systems are covered by the JR Pass?
Japan’s railways were privatized some years ago, leading the Japanese National Railways to split into different regional companies.
These six companies are:
- JR Kyushu
- JR Shikoku
- JR Hokkaido
- JR West
- JR East
- JR Central
The JR Pass allows you to use unlimited rides on the transport services of these six regional companies.
Types and Prices
The cost of the Japan Rail Pass might seem high to some people, but only if they’re unaware of the usual prices for each train, metro, bus, or ferry ride in Japan, or how frequently these modes of transportation are used while visiting.
When you do the math, the cost of the pass is actually very affordable, which is why it’s not advisable to visit Japan without it.
The price of the pass varies depending on the type of pass you choose and its duration.
There are two types of passes: the Standard and the Green, the latter offering access to a premium seating area within each transport service.
The prices for the JR Pass in each case are as follows:
Adult:
- 7 Days: Standard €223, Green €300.
- 14 Days: Standard €356, Green €484.
- 21 Days: Standard €456, Green €630.
Child:
- 7 Days: Standard €112, Green €150.
- 14 Days: Standard €178, Green €242.
- 21 Days: Standard €228, Green €314.
Where to Buy the Japan Rail Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass can be purchased in various ways, both inside and outside Japan, so you can have it ready even before you start your trip.
It’s worth noting that the JR Pass is available only for visitors, whether tourists or foreign workers.
The easiest way to purchase it is online, through the official JR website or a certified travel agency.
The process is quick, and only basic information is required.
Once payment is completed, the pass will be delivered within 3 days to the specified address.
How and Where to Exchange the JR Pass in Japan?
If you buy the pass online or from an agency outside Japan, you won’t initially receive the physical pass. Instead, you’ll need to exchange it for the actual pass once you arrive in Japan.
This is necessary because the pass must be printed with specific security certifications that only JR can provide.
You can exchange your voucher at Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo, Shinjuku, or other nearby locations, as well as at train and metro stations.
These locations have clearly marked booths for JR Pass exchanges.
Once you activate the pass, the usage days begin immediately, meaning the pass duration starts counting from that moment.
Keep in mind that the pass expires at midnight on the last day, regardless of when it was activated. For instance, if you activate it at 2:00 PM, it will still expire at 12:00 AM on the final day.
Reviews on the JR Pass
The recommendation is always to buy the Japan Rail Pass, as even if you only use it a few times, the cost of the pass will still be lower than paying for individual trips.
For example, the train fare from Tokyo to Kyoto alone is nearly equivalent to the price of the pass, so with just this trip, you’ve already justified the cost of the pass.
In terms of service, you have nothing to worry about. The Japanese are known for their efficiency, punctuality, and cleanliness, so there’s virtually no chance of issues that would make buying the pass feel like a waste of time or money.
For these reasons, buying the Japan Rail Pass is more than just a recommendation; it’s practically a must for any tourist wanting to travel without overspending on transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The system and services offered by the Japan Rail Pass might raise a few questions. It’s natural to wonder if something can really work as seamlessly as it’s described.
Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about the Japan Rail Pass:
Can I use the JR Pass on the metro?
Yes, but not in all cases. Some metro lines are operated by JR companies, and travel on these lines is included with the pass. However, lines not operated by JR will require an additional fare.
The lines included in the pass are the Yamanote Line in Tokyo and the Loop Line in Osaka.
Are Suica or Pasmo cards part of the JR Pass?
No, these are separate services that cover different lines.
Suica and Pasmo cards are prepaid—similar to a wallet balance.
You load money onto them, and this balance is used for travel. They are not unlimited, unlike the JR Pass.
Can I use the JR Pass to travel from the airport to the city?
Absolutely, as long as you use the lines included with the pass, such as the Narita Express from Narita Airport.
The pass can also be used from Haneda Airport, as long as you take the appropriate JR line.
Do I need to reserve seats if I have the JR Pass?
It’s not required since payment is already covered, but it’s highly recommended.
There are standard and Green car sections. Sometimes standard seats fill up, and the only options are waiting for the next train or paying extra for Green car seating.
With a reservation, you can avoid this situation.
Additionally, if you have a reserved seat, you can board without waiting for general boarding, as your seat is guaranteed and verifiable.
To reserve a seat, visit one of the JR Pass offices where they can allocate seats as requested.
However, some trains do not allow reservations, so it’s wise to arrive early to secure a seat.
Some trains do require reservations without exception, including the bullet train or Shinkansen, as well as the Hayabusa, Hayate, Kagayaki, and Narita Express trains.
Can I extend the duration of the JR Pass once I’m in Japan?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to do so before your current pass expires.
To extend, simply visit a JR office to request an extension and pay the necessary fee.
If you wait until your JR Pass has expired, the renewal process will take longer, as you’ll need to restart the application and re-submit documentation, resulting in a loss of valuable time.
The best approach is to purchase the JR Pass for your entire planned stay in Japan from the start and avoid last-minute adjustments.