A Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is possibly one of the most useful things you can buy to help you explore Japan. The JR Pass entitles you to unlimited travel on any Japan Rail (JR) operated train service, including both Local, Express, and Shinkansen (Bullet Train) lines. The pass is also valid on the JR Miyajima Ferry, as well as some JR Bus services.
The JR Pass really opens up the country to you for a very cost effective rate. If you plan on travelling across Japan, going to the major tourist cities, and everywhere in between, then the JR Pass will be crucial, as you can take as many trips per day, to anywhere as long as Japan Rail operates the service.
Another benefit of the JR Pass is that it’s hassle free. You don’t have to worry about sorting out paper tickets, or worrying about getting the wrong ticket, or paying the wrong fare. All you have to do is show your pass to the station attendant, and they will wave you though.
Overall, the JR Pass can offer you a hassle-free and affordable way to travel around Japan, making it an attractive option for tourists who want to explore the country’s rich culture and diverse scenery.
So, How do I get one?
JR Pass need to be purchased before getting to Japan, and collected once in Japan. Luckily, getting one is super simple, and can be arranged in minutes. You can purchase these from a number of outlets and travel agencies.
Upon purchase, you will be sent collection information for your JR Pass. Once you get to Japan, go to the designated collection location, and show the station attendants your purchase confirmation, and you will have your pass in no time.
Get your Japan Rail Pass
How much is a Japan Rail Pass?
| Pass Length | New cost |
| 7 days | 50,000 JPY |
| 14 days | 80,000 JPY |
| 21 days | 100,000 JPY |
That seems a little expensive. How worth it is the Japan Rail Pass?
Well, It really depends on the itinerary you have. If you are only going to stay in one city or region or region, then the pass isn’t for you. However, if you are planning on taking the bullet train often to get around the country, then it is an invaluable resource to attain, and can easily pay for itself when done correctly.
While trains are generally cheap for around town, long distance trains are a different story. Popular destinations like Sapporo, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Fukuoka can be far apart from each other. And if you are planning on hitting all the biggest tourist destinations, then domestic travel can add up very quickly. For example, the bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka is about 15,000JPY (About $115 USD), one way. Osaka to Hiroshima is a little over 11,000JPY (about $82 USD) on the bullet train. With the flexibility to jump on local train lines, express trains, and as well as long distance trains, then the Japan Rail Pass can really become a huge asset, which depending on your itinerary could save you big time.
In general, it is up to you to make the most out of your JR Pass, and the more you use it to explore Japan, the more worthwhile it is. If you are only planning on staying in one city for your entire trip to Japan, then the Japan Rail Pass might not be the best choice for you. But if you plan on exploring, then it is well worth having.
So, how do I know if I'm eligible?
Eligibility differs depending on the type of passport you hold and the visa you have. If you have a tourist visa of 90 days, then there is a high likelihood that you will be eligible for a JR Pass. If you do not have the 90 day tourist visa, and are living in Japan on a working or residency visa, then you will more than likely not be granted a Japan Rail Pass. Ideally, make sure you double check on our partners website, they have all the details you will need and the exact specifics.
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