Japan railway pass
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a must-have for foreign tourists looking to explore Japan’s extensive train network. Offering unlimited travel on JR trains for one, two, or three weeks, the pass comes in two options: the ordinary pass and the green car pass. The green car pass provides access to more spacious and comfortable first-class seats—ideal for travelers seeking extra comfort during their journey.
Although the JR Pass saw a significant price increase in autumn 2023, it remains a valuable option for those willing to pay for convenience. It helps save time and money by eliminating the need to buy separate tickets for each train ride.
Perfect for long-distance travel across Japan, the JR Pass allows for seamless journeys between destinations. Whether you're visiting bustling cities or tranquil countryside, it offers flexibility, comfort, and peace of mind—an all-in-one solution for exploring Japan by train.
Types of passes
- 7 consecutive days
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50,000 yen ordinary cars — 70,000 yen green cars
- 14 consecutive days
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80,000 yen ordinary cars — 110,000 yen green cars
- 21 consecutive days
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100,000 yen ordinary cars — 140,000 yen green cars
Where to buy
- Through the official website
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If you purchase the Japan Rail Pass from the official website, you’ll need to select a start date within one month of purchase (though you can change it later). A major benefit is that you can reserve train seats online even before arriving in Japan. Plus, you only need your passport to pick up the pass—no voucher required.
- Through travel agents
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Many travel agencies, such as Japan Experience, sell the Japan Rail Pass. You'll first receive a voucher, which must be exchanged in Japan within three months. You can then choose a start date within one month of the exchange.
Buy through Japan Experience →
Validity
- ✅ Valid On:
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— Most JR trains nationwide (inc. Shinkansen, except Nozomi/Mizuho)
— Tokyo Monorail to/from Haneda
— JR Ferry to Miyajima (excl. visitor tax)
— Select non-JR lines to reach remote JR routes (e.g., Aoimori, IR Ishikawa, Ainokaze Toyama)
— Limited JR local buses (e.g., Kyoto–Ryoanji, Kanazawa–Kenrokuen, Kusatsu Onsen, Hiroshima, etc.)
- ❌ Not Valid/Requires Extra Fees:
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— Non-JR trains (like most subways)
— Nozomi & Mizuho Shinkansen (supplemental fees apply)
— JR trains running partially on non-JR tracks
— Night train berths & liner tickets
— Highway buses (discontinued since 2013)
Resources
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
The Japan Railway Pass was an absolute game-changer for my trip to Japan! It allowed me to travel across the country effortlessly, from Tokyo to Kyoto and even up to Hokkaido, without worrying about individual ticket prices or schedules. The convenience of unlimited travel on all JR trains, including the Shinkansen, was incredibly valuable, saving me both time and money. The pass also provided access to JR buses and ferries, which made exploring less accessible areas of Japan much easier. It was such a relief knowing I could hop on a train at any time and not have to worry about purchasing tickets for each journey.
Not only was the JR Pass practical, but it also gave me peace of mind knowing I wasn’t constantly calculating the cost of each leg of my trip. For the price, I felt I got great value considering the extensive travel options. I could travel in comfort and convenience, plus I had the flexibility to change my plans on the fly, which is a huge benefit for any traveler. For anyone planning to explore Japan by train, the JR Pass is definitely worth the investment—it made my trip smoother, more enjoyable, and much more affordable in the long run!2 months ago — by Wesley