Japan’s train system is second to none!
They’re super convenient, incredibly reliable and ubiquitous. And if you’re visiting Japan, you’ll be riding them often – there’s no way around it.
That means you’ll need the right pass.So, is the Japan Rail Pass worth it? That’s what we’re here to talk about today.
Consider this your Japan Rail Pass guide. Let’s get to it!
What Is the JR Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass (aka, JR Pass) gives you unlimited use of JR trains across Japan. You can choose from three different pass options:
- 7-day pass
- 14-day pass
- 21-day pass
With each pass, you can ride every JR line throughout Japan as much as you want. This is a great deal, because Japan has so much to do and see!
However, if you need to transfer to a different train line (outside of JR), you’ll need to pay extra for that trip.
The JR Pass is only available to visitors on a tourist visa (not foreign or Japanese residents). So if you’re moving (or already living) here and hoping to use a JR Pass, then unfortunately you’re out of luck.
Interesting Fact: While similar in name, the Japan Rail Pass is not actually a part of the Japan Railways Group (JR). They’re just an authorised distributor.
How to Get A JR Pass
To get a JR Pass, you need to purchase one online before you arrive. So be sure to plan ahead!
You can buy your pass through the official Japan Rail Pass website here or a third party site like Klook. The process is super easy:
- Choose your pass type and how many you need
- Accept the terms and conditions and put in your passenger information
- Add your payment information
- Get your confirmation
And that’s it!
To pick up your JR Pass, go to a JR exchange ticket office with your reservation number and your passport showing that you’re a temporary visitor (i.e., on a tourist visa).
When picking up your JR Pass, you will choose an activation date from that day up to 30 days out. So be sure to choose a start date that makes the most sense for your travel plans.
After getting your JR Pass, keep it in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
How to Use Your JR Pass: Pro Tips & More
Using your JR Pass is pretty straightforward and works like a normal train ticket in Japan. But here are some key things to know.
Reserve Your Seats At A JR Counter
To get a reserved seat train ticket, simply go to a JR ticket counter with your JR Pass and specify your destination and preferred departure time. The staff will then give you an individual train ticket.
If you can, choose a busy location (like Tokyo station) since the staff will be able to speak English better than a smaller station or town. You can also reserve your seats using a green JR ticket machine if you don’t want to talk to anyone. But I find it’s easier at the counter (the ticket machines can be difficult to use).
Entering the Gates
To enter the JR gates for your train (Shinkansen or local trains), simply feed your JR Pass and your reserved seat ticket into the machine slot together.
If you didn’t reserve a seat (for example, when using the local trains), just insert your JR Pass and it will pop out on the other side.
If there’s an attendant at the gate, you can also just show them your JR Pass and they’ll let you through.
Be Spontaneous
Who says you need to stay on the beaten path? With a JR Pass, you can explore cities on whim at little to no extra (train) cost.
Because remember, you can ride as many JR trains as you want without limits.
So let’s say you want to visit Kyoto from Tokyo. That’s an amazing trip to plan, but why not take a few detours too? You can stop by Nagano, pop over to Okayama for the day or hop off at any random stop along the way – just because you can!
To seriously take advantage of your ticket’s value, be more spontaneous with your Japanese trip. There’s no extra cost (at least, not for the transportation part).
Reserve Your Seats (Especially During Holidays)
As a JR Pass owner, you can book free seat reservations on all JR trains (that accept seat reservations). This is most useful for long-haul trips on the Shinkansen.
While you can often pick a seat the same day of your trip, you may want to reserve your seats beforehand if you’re travelling during peak times or holidays.
You can learn more about reserving your seats with a JR Pass here.
Pay Attention to Station Transfers
While the JR Pass is incredibly convenient, it doesn’t cover all train lines. So if you’re travelling outside of the JR network, you’ll need to pay separately for those trips.
For example, let’s say you’re heading to Lake Kawaguchiko, which I recommend you check out! You’ll need to make a quick transfer at Otsuki station and pay for a different train line (not JR) to finish your trip to Kawaguchiko station.
This is why I recommend also picking up an IC card (like the Welcome Suica) for your trip. This is a convenient train pass that you can recharge and use at many stores and shops throughout Japan.
Relax With Some Food & Drinks (But Plan Ahead)
My favourite way to take the Shinkansen is with a bento box, some light snacks and a coffee. You can pick up food and drinks on or near the platform. There will be small konbini shops inside the gates and directly on some platforms.
Unfortunately, many Shinkansen trains are getting rid of food carts and similar on-board services. So be sure to plan ahead and buy your snacks or drinks before you board!
All Shinkansen trains also come with multiple toilets, wifi and areas for luggage storage. So you should have everything you need to enjoy a long trip.
Take Some ‘Joyful’ Trains
Some Japanese trains are not just for travelling between places. Joyful trains, as they’re called, are trains with a focus on experience (not necessarily a destination).
They’re theme-based train tours that serve food and drinks. And they’re free for all JR Pass holders! It’s the perfect way to see Japan slowly and from a train window. And what better way to travel than with no timetable and little destination in mind?
Navigate Train Stations Like A Pro
I thought it would be helpful to give you a quick crash course on using train stations in Japan.
Because if you’re visiting the Land of the Rising Sun, you’ll be using them a lot – there are over 8,500 train stations in Japan, after all!
So follow these simple tips to make life easier:
- Use Google Maps – it hasn’t steered me wrong yet
- Double check that your travel route is staying on all JR lines
- Pick up a Welcome Suica to use in addition to your JR Pass
- Most ticket machines (for recharging IC cards and buying tickets) are cash only
- Avoid being loud, talking on the phone or eating on trains
- Always check the time for your last train so you don’t miss it
- Give up your (*non-reserved) train seat for elderly, injured or pregnant passengers
- Always double check the platform number, train time and train type (for example, local vs. express trains)
Recommended: How to Use Trains In Japan
Buy the JR Pass Online Before Your Trip
I already mentioned this, but it’s worth repeating once more. Unfortunately, you can’t just show up to Japan and buy a JR Pass at the airport or at a train ticket counter.
You need to buy your pass online before coming to Japan. Luckily, it’s super easy to do. Just visit the JR Pass website and follow the instructions from the homepage.
So, Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth It? Who It’s For
The JR Pass isn’t for everyone. So, who should get one?
Who Should Get the JR Pass
The JR Pass is perfect for travellers who plan on seeing a lot of Japan. This means you’ll be visiting multiple cities and taking the Shinkansen a lot. For these types of travel plans, the best value for your money is probably a JR Pass.
Who Shouldn't Get the JR Pass
The JR Pass isn’t necessary for travellers who plan on staying in one location for most of their trip.
For example, if you want to spend most of your time exploring Tokyo, you’ll probably be walking around a lot and not taking expensive train trips. In this scenario, it may be that you just stick with a Welcome Suica card and pay for trains as you go. Remember, larger cities like Tokyo are very walkable and taking local trains for shorter trips isn’t too expensive.
The cheapest JR Pass starts at ¥50,000 for a 7-day pass. So that means you would have to spend over 7,000 yen (around $66 AUD) everyday on JR trains to justify the price.
And trust me, that’s pretty hard to do everyday if you’re just staying in the city.
JR Pass Questions
Which JR Pass should I get?
The pass you buy depends on your trip duration and travel plans. For example, if you’re staying in Japan for 2 weeks but only plan on travelling for one week, then a 7-day pass will be fine.
Where do I pick up my JR Pass?
You can activate your JR Pass at any JR ticket office. You can learn more here.
How do I use the JR Pass for the Shinkansen?
Go to any JR ticket office with your JR Pass to reserve a seat and pick up your ticket. You will be shown your car number and seat number. There will be attendants nearby who can help you.
How much is the Japan Rail Pass?
Here are the current prices, based on the Japan RailPass website:
- 7-day pass → ¥50,000
- 14-day pass → ¥80,000
- 21-day pass → ¥100,000
Keep in mind that the price goes up if you want to buy a first-class pass and ride the Green Cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a JR Pass after arriving in Japan?
No, you need to purchase your JR Pass online before your trip. You can pick it up once you’re in Japan at a ticket office.
Can I use my JR Pass everywhere in Japan?
Yes! Your JR Pass is valid for all JR lines across Japan.
What does the JR Pass not cover?
The JR Pass does not cover train lines outside of the JR network. So be sure to plan your routes accordingly. Sometimes, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets for local trains.
Is the JR Pass worth it if I'm only staying in Tokyo?
In this situation, it may be wiser to just use a Welcome Suica. Tokyo is very walkable and the JR Pass may not be worth it unless you’re travelling to many cities and using the Shinkansen a lot.
Can I take the Tokyo subway with my JR Pass?
Unfortunately not. You can’t use a JR Pass outside of the JR network (which makes sense).
What’s the difference between the Welcome Suica and the JR Pass?
The Welcome Suica is a local IC card that can be used as a rechargeable debit card and works with any train line. The JR Pass is only for JR lines and cannot be recharged or used to pay for other things.
Can I use the JR Pass if I live in Japan?
The JR Pass is only for short-term visitors on a tourist visa. Residents cannot get the JR Pass.
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