The stunning archipelago of Japan stands out as a remarkable travel destination in Asia. Complemented by the efficient Japan Railway network, including futuristic bullet trains, exploring the 2,361-mile country by train offers a truly bucket list-worthy experience. The Japan Railway Group provides a pass for unlimited train travel throughout Japan for up to 21 days with a single purchase. However, with the cost of 66,000 Yen (~$485) for 21 days (and 100,000 Yen for 21 days with new pricing), the question arises: Is the Japan Rail Pass a worthwhile investment?

CONTENTS OF THIS JAPAN RAIL PASS GUIDE

Contents of this Japan Rail Pass Guide:

• Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It? 7 Ways to Check
• A JR Pass is Worth Purchasing if…
• A JR Pass is Not Worth Purchasing if…
• The Bottom Line on Whether Purchasing a Japan Rail Pass is Worth it
• JR Pass Perks
• What Does a Cross-Country Japan Rail Ride Look Like?
• Essential Things to Know About the National JR Pass
• Pros of the Japan Rail Pass
• Cons of the Japan Rail Pass
• The Different JR Passes Available
• JR Pass Prices
• Is the Green Pass Worth the Extra Cost?
• How Do You Use the JR Pass Once You’ve Purchased It?
• When Will the Japan Rail Pass Save You Money?
• If You Don’t Get a JR Pass: The Best Option is to Get an IC Card (Suica, SUGOCA, etc.)
• Japan Rail Pass vs. Air Travel and Flying Through Japan
• JR Pass vs. Bus Travel
• What is Included with the JR Pass?
• How to Buy a Japan Rail Pass: Online or In Person (in Japan)
• Useful Links for Your Research
• Japan Rail Pass FAQ
• What Trains in Japan Are JR Trains and Included in the JR Pass?
• Does the Japan Rail Pass Include Bullet Train Options?
• Where to Purchase the Japan Rail Pass: Official Outlets Are Best
• Where is the Japan Rail Pass Valid?
• What is the Difference Between an Ordinary Pass and a Green Pass?
• When Will the New Japan Rail Pass Price Begin?
• What is the New JR Pass Price in 2023?
• Can the Japan Rail Pass Be Used at Local Stations?

Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It? 7 ways to Check:

Exploring whether the Japan Rail Pass is a prudent investment involves considering various factors. From the cost of individual tickets to the convenience and flexibility the pass provides, these seven checks will help travelers make an informed decision.

A JR Pass is worth purchasing if…

1. You will travel the 2,900 km (1,800 miles) trip by train from the northernmost station (Wakkani Station, Hokaido) to the Southernmost Station (Nishi-Oyama Station, Kyushu) (Click to see the Google Maps Route and Prices)
2. If you will travel from Tokyo by train to either the northern tip or the southern tip of Japan (~2,900 km or 1,800 miles)
3. If you will travel roundtrip by Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka (or the equivalent) 2 or more times within a 7 day period, 3 or more times in 14 day period, or 4 or more times in a 21 day period (Click to see Google Maps Tokyo –> Osaka Shinkansen bullet train route and prices)
4. If you want to be able to reserve your train tickets up to one month before departure
5. If you want consistent access to the first class VIP trains (via the Green pass)
   

A JR Pass is not worth purchasing if…

1. Your itinerary is not defined, and you are unsure about the frequency of travel between cities.
2. You prefer not to plan your itineraries and want to travel in a hop-on-hop-off fashion.

And remember:

• You can still purchase a JR Pass when you get to Japan, from official outlets, so don’t stress too much now
• You can easily get a refund (we tried it) if you book a JR Pass through official outlets, so again, don’t stress to much and realize that it may be worth paying an extra few dollars to purchase from an official.
  

The Bottom Line on Whether Purchasing a Japan Rail Pass is Worth It

For those with a fully planned trip covering the entire length of the country in a 21-day period, the JR Pass cost is justified. Travelers with a partially planned trip can calculate the cost of train travel between cities using Google Maps directions to compare individual ticket prices with the JR Pass.

JR Pass Perks

The JR Pass comes with several perks, including the ability to make advance reservations online and access to first-class VIP trains with the Green Pass. These perks are particularly useful during peak travel times and offer a more comfortable and convenient experience.

What Does a Cross-Country Japan Rail Ride Look Like

Embarking on a cross-country rail journey from Tokyo to the northernmost station (Wakkanai Station, Hokkaido) or the southernmost station (Nishi Oyama Station, Kyushu) offers a unique perspective of Japan’s diverse landscapes. Travelers can customize their route, exploring smaller towns and enjoying a more authentic experience off the typical tourist path.

Essential Things to Know About the National JR Pass:

The National JR Pass provides unlimited rides on national Japan Rail company trains, connecting major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Sapporo. However, it does not cover local trains, subways, trams, and buses. Travelers need to consider their itinerary and the type of transportation needed within cities.

Pros of the Japan Rail Pass

• Online reservation for easy trip planning.
• Straightforward process with a one-time purchase.
• Free local train rides in Tokyo.
  

Cons of the Japan Rail Pass

• The break-even point is around 3,000 km of train travel within a 21-day period.
• Locks travelers into a planned itinerary, potentially leading to loss if plans change.

The Different JR Passes Available:

The JR Pass is available in two types: the regular pass and the Green pass. Both are offered in durations of 7, 14, and 21 days. The Green pass provides access to first-class cars, offering more spacious seating and a luxurious travel experience.

JR Pass Prices

Current prices (until October 2023) and new prices (starting October 2023) for the JR Pass vary based on the duration and type of pass. Travelers should assess their itinerary and travel frequency to determine the most cost-effective option.

Japan Rail Prices

The current prices for Japan Rail passes (valid until October 2023) are as follows:

7 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (7 Day): 29,650 yen ($224)
• Green Pass (First Class 7 Day): 39,600 yen ($300)

14 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (14 Day): 47,250 yen ($358)
• Green Pass (First Class 14 Day): 64,120 yen ($484)
  

21 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (21 Day): 60,450 yen ($458)
• Green Pass (First Class 21 Day): 83,390 yen ($630)
  

The new prices for JR passes (starting October 2023) are as follows:

7 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (7 Day): 50,000 yen ($352)
• Green Pass (First Class 7 Day): 70,000 yen ($493)

14 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (14 Day): 80,000 yen ($564)
• Green Pass (First Class 14 Day): 111,000 yen ($783)

21 Day JR Pass Cost

• Standard (21 Day): 100,000 yen ($705)
• Green Pass (First Class 21 Day): 140,000 yen ($987)
  

I recommend checking the official Japan Rail Pass website or contacting authorized JR Pass vendors. They regularly update their pricing details, and you can find information on different pass durations (7, 14, or 21 days) as well as options like Ordinary Pass and Green Pass.

Here are the steps to check the current prices:

1. Visit the official Japan Rail Pass website: Japan Rail Pass Official Site.
2. Navigate to the “Prices” or “Fares” section on the website.
3. Look for the specific details regarding the Japan Rail Pass options, including the Ordinary Pass (standard class) and Green Pass (first-class).
4. Check for any updates or changes in pricing, as well as the effective date of these changes.
5. If you plan to purchase the pass through an authorized vendor, you can also contact them directly for the latest pricing information.

Please note that the prices can vary based on the type of pass, duration, and any ongoing promotions or changes in the pricing structure introduced by the Japan Rail Pass authorities.

Is the Green Pass Worth the Extra Cost

The Green Pass, offering first-class accommodations, is worth the extra cost for travelers seeking a more comfortable and exclusive experience. It is particularly beneficial during peak travel seasons when standard cars may be crowded.

How Do You Use the JR Pass Once You’ve Purchased It

Upon purchasing the JR Pass online, travelers can use the online seat reservation site for free. Reservations can be picked up at designated locations or ticket offices at JR stations. Advanced reservation options and seat selection add convenience to the travel experience.

When Will the Japan Rail Pass Save You Money

The JR Pass becomes cost-effective if travelers plan to cover substantial distances, such as a north-to-south exploration or round trips between major cities. Calculating the break-even point based on individual ticket prices and the expected frequency of travel helps determine if the JR Pass is a money-saving option.

If You Don’t Get a JR Pass: The Best Option is to Get an IC Card (Suica, SUGOCA, etc.)

For travelers not opting for a JR Pass, an IC card (Suica, SUGOCA, etc.) provides a convenient and cashless payment solution for local trains, subways, and buses. It allows seamless travel within cities and is a practical alternative for those with unplanned itineraries.

Japan Rail Pass vs. Air Travel and Flying Through Japan

Choosing between rail travel and air travel in Japan depends on preferences, time constraints, and the desire to experience the country’s landscapes. Rail travel offers a peaceful and efficient alternative to the chaotic experience of air travel, particularly for those with time to explore beyond major cities.

JR Pass vs. Bus Travel:

While buses offer a budget-friendly option for cash-strapped travelers, rail travel in Japan, either with the JR Pass or individual tickets, provides a superior experience. Buses may be cheaper but often take longer, have smaller and less comfortable seats, and pose restrictions on large backpacks.

Essential Things to Know About Your JR Pass

Understanding the validity period of the JR Pass (21, 14, or 7 days) and its coverage on national rail lines is crucial. The pass excludes subway travel, trams, and local transportation within cities, emphasizing its suitability for inter-city travel.

What is Included with the JR Pass

The JR Pass covers free, unlimited travel on national rail lines, Shinkansen bullet trains, and most local trains within Tokyo. However, it does not extend to local trains and subways in cities other than Tokyo.

How to Buy a Japan Rail Pass: Online or In Person (in Japan)

Travelers can purchase the JR Pass online through the official JR Pass site or in person at designated JR exchange offices in Japan. While online purchases offer convenience, in-person purchases may be slightly more expensive but provide flexibility.

Useful Links for Your Research

• Google Maps route of JR trains from Hokkaido prefecture to Kyushu Prefecture with prices
• Official Japan Rail Pass Purchase Site
• JR Pass Pickup Locations
  

Japan Rail Pass FAQ

• What Trains in Japan Are JR Trains and Included in the JR Pass?
  • The JR Pass covers all national Japan Rail trains, primarily those running between major cities.
    
• Does the Japan Rail Pass Include Bullet Train Options?
  • Yes, the JR Pass includes all bullet trains except the Nizomi and Mizuho Shinkansen.
    
• Where to Purchase the Japan Rail Pass: Official Outlets Are Best
  • The official Japan Rail Pass website or authorized JR Pass exchange offices in Japan are the recommended places to purchase the pass.
    
• Where is the Japan Rail Pass Valid?
  • The JR Pass is valid on national Japan Rail lines, including Shinkansen bullet trains and most local trains.
    
• What is the Difference Between an Ordinary Pass and a Green Pass?
  • The Green Pass offers access to first-class cars, providing a more luxurious and comfortable travel experience.
    
• When Will the New Japan Rail Pass Price Begin?
  • The new JR Pass prices are set to take effect from October 2023.
    
• What is the New JR Pass Price in 2023?
  • The new JR Pass prices vary based on the duration and type of pass.
    
• Can the Japan Rail Pass Be Used at Local Stations?
  • The JR Pass is primarily designed for inter-city travel and is not valid for local trains and subways within cities.
    

If you have enough of your trip planned to calculate the cost of travel by train between cities, you can use Google Maps directions function to compare the cost of the trip, purchasing individual train tickets as you go, and see if the JR Pass is worth it for your trip. (Click here to go to Google Maps routes for trains in Japan, with fare prices)

What does a cross country Japan rail ride look like?

1. Travel by rail from Tokyo to the northernmost train station (Wakkanai Station, on Hokkaido island) (Google Maps Route) and back to Tokyo
2. Travel from Tokyo to the southernmost train station (in Kyushu prefecture) and back to Tokyo (Google Maps Route)
3. Travel from southern tip of Japan (Nishi Oyama station in Kyushu Prefecture) to the northern tip (Wakkanai Station in Hokkaido prefecture) (Google Maps Route)
4. Travel from the northern tip (Wakkanai Station in Hokkaido prefecture) to the southern tip of Japan (Nishi Oyama station in Kyushu Prefecture) (Google Maps Route)

For travelers looking for an authentic experience quite literally off the beaten path, this rail ride, completed by hopping off in smaller cities as well as  big and then hopping back on, would take you through smaller Japanese towns that rarely see tourists, have a more authentic feel, and are far cheaper than the Japan itinerary (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) that most people are accustomed to hearing about.

Essential things to know about the National JR Pass: Good for rides between cities, not for (most) local rides

The unlimited ride National JR Pass is essentially that, a “national” pass. The pass allows for unlimited rides on the national Japan Rail company trains, which connect major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Sapporo, and major lines like the luxurious Shinkansen Bullet train. However, this useful pass does not allow free rides on local trains and transportation, such as subways, trams, and buses. This means that if you will be taking numerous trains between large cities in Japan, the Japan rail pass will be worth the money. However, if you will say primarily in 1 or 2 cities for most of your trip, the pass likely will not be worth it.

You can use the JR Pass for some JR lines that exist in the major cities, such as Osaka Loop or Kanjo line and the Tokyo Yamanote line, so account that into your calculation if you will be staying in a big city like Tokyo or Osaka. For reference, when I did not have the JR Pass, I spent ~$10 to ~$20 per day (~1,500 to 3,000 yen per day) on trains alone exploring Tokyo.

Pros of the Japan Rail Pass

• Online reservation, easily plan out your trip in advance
• Straightforward process – once you’ve purchased, you’re done
• Free local train rides in Tokyo
  

Cons of the Japan Rail Pass

• The “break even point” of making the 21 day pass worth purchasing is ~3000km (~1900 miles) of train travel. That’s the equivalent of traveling from Tokyo to Osaka once every 3 days for your entire trip.
• Purchasing a JR pass locks you into moving for your entire trip. If you find a city orprefecture you like and decide not to travel much, you essentially lose your money
  

What are the JR Passes available and what does each Japan Rail Pass cost?

The JR pass types available are the regular pass, and the Green pass, all offered in increments of 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. The Green pass is essentially a first class ticket for your entire trip and entitles you to first class cars for your entire trip, with wiser, plush chairs and more spacious seating.

How do you use the JR pass once you’ve purchased it?

Once you’ve purchased a JR Pass online, you can start using the online seat reservation site free of charge.

After you’ve reserved your seat online, pick up the reserved seat ticket at the reserved seat ticket machine or “Midori-no-madoguchi” (ticket office) located at JR stations.

Visit this information pageon the official Japan Rail Pass site for details on booking reserved seats in advance, and using your pass to “purchase” seats via kiosks at JR stations.

When will the Japan rail pass save you money?

• If you plan to travel Japan tip to tip, the any of the rail passes will save you money
• If you are likely to travel more than 3,000km (1,900 miles) by rail within a single 21 day trip, or the equivalent for shorter trips, the JR pass will likely save you money

If you don’t get a JR Pass: The best option is to get an IC Card (Suica, SUGOCA, etc.)

If you’ve decided that getting a JR pass isn’t right for your trip, what is the right move?

Get an “IC card,” SUICA, PASMO, ICOCA, KITACA, NIMOCA, or MANACA.

IC cards are a type of prepaid, touchless payment system used throughout Japan. Getting one of these cards will allow you to charge the card with yen, and simply swipe at an local train to pay and board the train. Additionally, because each of the national IC cards are accepted throughout Japand, you will be able to pay for all types of train tickets quickly and easily with this single card.

All of these cards essentially perform the same function, allowing cashless payment throughout Japan (at train stations, shops, vendors, and more). The only difference is region of Japan that the IC card is tied to.

• SUICA – Tokyo
• ICOCA – Osaka
• KITACA – Sapporo
• NIMOCA – Fukuoka
• MANACA – Nagoya

You can purchase each of these at any central station at the city you’re in, so simply ask for the card that fits your region, and head to an automated kiosk (in the station) to add yen accordingly.

Japan Rail Pass vs. air travel and flying through Japan

Thanks to the beauty of Japan’s varied landscapes, from seas to volcanoes, and the pleasant efficiency of the Japanese train system, trading the pleasant, peaceful and easy experience of rail travel, for the security checkpoints and chaotic experience of air travel in a no brainer.

If you have the time, and desire, to experience Japan outside of the megacity centers, opt for rail travel.

Personally, whenever I travel to Japan, I only opt for rail travel, for the convenience, the pleasure, and the one of a kind travel experience. 

Japan rail booking, for single rides, is well automated, with prepaid cards “ticket ATMs”, and extremely clean and pristine railway stations, making every step of the way pain free.  There are virtually no gaps in the network of trains, so you don’t have to worry about surprises.  And the trains themselves appear to be as well maintained as a fleet of airplanes, so whether you ride a bullet train or a sonic train, the experience will be pleasant an memorable.

 If you have a choice of flights or rail travel in Japan, do yourself a favor and opt for rail.

JR Pass vs. Bus Travel

First things first – so far, nothing in Japan offers a sub-par experience.  Not even buses.  For those that are “cash strapped” and need to save money, busses tend to be half the price for the same distance of travel but take twice as long.  Additionally, the seats of busses aren’t as big or comfy.  But, if you are backpacking through Japan on a budget, consider busses as a cheaper option that you can stick with for the trip, or use occasionally to reduce your average daily travel costs. Howver, busses in Japan don’t allow large backpacker style backpacks, except on specific busses and bus lines, so beware of that risk.

But, ultimately, I would recommend rail travel in Japan – whether done with the unlimited Japan Rail Pass, or purchased as individual trips – because anyone who likes trains will fall in love with the mode of travel here.

Essential things to know about your JR Pass

• The Japan rail pass valid period is 21, 14, or 7 days depending on the pass you choose to purchase
• The official JR Pass site only allows you to purchase a pass one month before your intended trip, but you can start booking trips immediately
• The JR Pass does not allow subway travel or trams within cities, but most big cities have JR lines such as Osaka Loop or Kanjo line and the Tokyo Yamanote line.
  
  I recommend checking the official Japan Rail Pass website or contacting authorized JR Pass vendors. They regularly update their pricing details, and you can find information on different pass durations (7, 14, or 21 days) as well as options like Ordinary Pass and Green Pass.
  
  Here are the steps to check the current prices:
• Visit the official Japan Rail Pass website: Japan Rail Pass Official Site.
• Navigate to the “Prices” or “Fares” section on the website.
• Look for the specific details regarding the Japan Rail Pass options, including the Ordinary Pass (standard class) and Green Pass (first-class).
• Check for any updates or changes in pricing, as well as the effective date of these changes.
• If you plan to purchase the pass through an authorized vendor, you can also contact them directly for the latest pricing information.
• Please note that the prices can vary based on the type of pass, duration, and any ongoing promotions or changes in the pricing structure introduced by the Japan Rail Pass authorities.
  

What is included with the JR Pass

The JR pass covers free, unlimited travel on all national rail lines – essentially, the more costly rides between large cities – and most local trains within Tokyo.

The JR pass does not include fairs on local trains and subways around the country, but these local rides tend to total ~500 yen per day if you’re bouncing around town exploring.

How to buy a Japan Rail Pass: Online or in person (in Japan)

To purchase a JR Pass online, visit the JR Pass official site at https://japanrailpass.net/en/, and follow the steps to purchase the pass online.

To purchase a JR Pass in Japan, know that it will be slightly more expensive than purchasing online, but you can visit one of the designated JR exchanges to purchase the pass.

Does the Japan Rail Pass include bullet train options?

Yes, the Japan Rail Pass includes all of the bullet trains besides that limited Shinkansen Nizomi and Mizuho lines that operate on the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen lines.

The JR Pass includes the Tokaido Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo with Osaka, Sanyo Shinkansen, Kyushu Shinkansen, Akita Shinkansen Line, Hokkaido Shinkansen Line, Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, Joetsu Shinkansen Line, Tokoku Shinkansen Line, Yamagata Shinkansen Line.

Where to Purchase the Japan Rail Pass: Official outlets are best

Though you can purchase the JR pass online, beware that there are many blogs and affiliate sites (that aren’t the official JR Pass site) selling the passes at a discount. Normally discounts are good, but these discount affiliate sites have extremely strict refund policies (or none at all) and also have strict timeframes about how long before your trip you can purchase, how you can have your pass shipped to you, and rules for picking up. Ultimately, these restrictions and fine print can lead to a headache that isn’t worth the discount.

Ultimately, your best approach is to buy from the official JR Pass site (here, don’t worry, I’m not an affiliate, just trying to help make your Japan trip smoother). Via the official JR pPass site your pass is fully refundable and you can pickup in person easily.

Additionally, remember if you are a foreigner, you can simply purchase the JR Pass in person in Japan to keep your life simple, and focus on other things in the meantime, but the pass will cost a little extra when purchased in person

You can purchase a JR Pass at the following locations in person:

• Hakata Train Station
• Hiroshima Train Station
• Nagoya Train Station
• Niigata Train Station
• Osaka Train Station
• Sapporo Train Station
• Sendai Train Station
• Shinjuku Train Station
• Takamatsu Train Station
• Tokyo Train Station
• Yokohama Train Station
• Haneda Airport
• Kansai Airport
• Narita Airport
• New Chitose Airport

If you’ve already purchased your JR pass online, go to the designated JR exchange pickup offices, on this list on the office JR Rail pass site. 

Where is the Japan Rail Pass valid?

The JR Pass is valid on all Japan Rail lines throughout Japan, which run primarily between cities, the Shinkansen Bullet trains, and the JR loop trains that run through many major cities in Japan.

What is the difference between an ordinary pass and a Green pass

The ordinary pass allows free access to all JR lines and the Shinkansen bullet train lines excluding the Nizomo and Mizuho trains. The Green pass includes reserved and first class trains on all lines which include plush and wider seats, a more spacious seating arrangement, and complementary drinks.

Although I have chosen to hitchiking in Japan, I was also studying this option before I go.

You do you!