The "JR PASS" is a travel pass issued for international visitors to Japan. With the JR PASS, you can travel efficiently around Japan while keeping transportation costs low.
There are various passes available to suit your destination, such as the "JR PASS (Nationwide/JAPAN RAIL PASS)" which allows you to travel widely across the country, the "JR Kyushu Rail Pass" for exploring the Kyushu area at a great value, and the "JR Tokyo Wide Pass" which is convenient for accessing popular sightseeing spots around Tokyo.
This article introduces the main features, prices, available areas, and recommended suggested itineraries for the major JR passes. Find the pass that best fits your travel style and fully enjoy the charms of Japan's many regions.
*If you purchase or reserve products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
🎫Reserve your JR PASS here【kkday】
🏨Book your stay with JAPANiCAN! 👉Click Here
🚅Reserve your Shinkansen tickets with NAVITIME Travel! 👉Click Here
🛫Book your flight tickets with NAVITIME Travel! 👉Click Here
😄Make your trip in Japan even more comfortable with NAVITIME eSIM! 👉Click here
What is the “JR PASS”? A Simple Guide for Beginners
First, let’s explain the overview of the “JR PASS” and some important points to know before using it.
What is the JR PASS?
The “JR PASS” is a great-value rail pass sold to international visitors to Japan. It allows unlimited rides on Shinkansen, limited express trains, and local trains operated by the JR Group for a set period, making it popular among travelers touring various regions of Japan.
In addition to the nationwide “JR PASS (Nationwide Version / JAPAN RAIL PASS),” there are also regional passes focused on specific areas such as Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kansai, and Kyushu, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel plans.
🎫Reserve your JR PASS here【kkday】
Important Points to Know Before Using
On the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines, the “Nozomi” and “Mizuho” trains cannot be used with some passes, or may require an additional fee, so please check in advance.
During the validity period, the pass must be used on consecutive days. For example, with a 7-day pass, it is valid for 7 consecutive days starting from the first day of use, and cannot be used on non-consecutive days.
The usual way to purchase a JR PASS is to buy an exchange order from an overseas travel agency or the official website, and then exchange it for the pass at a designated counter after arriving in Japan. Recently, more passes can be purchased directly online, so be sure to check the official website for the latest information before your trip.
Which JR PASS Should You Choose? Quick Reference by Travel Area
In addition to the nationwide version, various JR PASS options are available for each area. By choosing according to your destination and travel route, you can save on transportation costs and travel efficiently. First, check the main areas covered by each pass and find the one that’s perfect for you.
| Pass | Main Areas Covered |
JAPAN RAIL PASS | Nationwide |
JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass | Southern Hokkaido, Tohoku, Niigata, the Kanto region, and the Tokyo metropolitan area |
JR Tohoku-South Hokkaido Rail Pass | |
JR EAST PASS ※5days or 10days | Tohoku, Niigata, Nagano |
JR TOKYO Wide Pass | Tokyo, Yamanashi (including Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi), Nagano (including Karuizawa), Tochigi (including Nikko), and parts of Niigata (including Echigo-Yuzawa) |
Hokuriku Arch Pass | Tokyo, Kanto, Nagano, Toyama, Ishikawa (Kanazawa, Wakura Onsen, etc.), Fukui, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo (Kobe, etc.) |
Kansai WIDE Area Pass | Kansai, Okayama, Fukui, Tottori, Takamatsu |
JR Kyushu Rail Pass |
JR PASS (Nationwide / JAPAN RAIL PASS)
The JR PASS (Nationwide / JAPAN RAIL PASS) is a rail pass for international visitors that allows unlimited travel on JR lines throughout Japan, from Hokkaido to Kyushu. By using the Shinkansen and limited express trains, you can efficiently visit popular sightseeing spots all over Japan.
Prices and Available Areas
[Prices] (When purchased via the web sales service)
| Type | Green Car | Green Car | Ordinary Car | Ordinary Car |
| Category | Adult | Child | Adult | Child |
7 days | ¥70,000 | ¥35,000 | ¥50,000 | ¥25,000 |
14 days | ¥110,000 | ¥55,000 | ¥80,000 | ¥40,000 |
21 days | ¥140,000 | ¥70,000 | ¥100,000 | ¥50,000 |
[Available Areas]
・All JR Group lines, Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho)
・Limited express trains
・Express trains
・Rapid trains
・Local trains and BRT (some trains are not covered)
Recommended Suggested Itinerary (7 days)
DAY 1: Tokyo (Asakusa, TOKYO SKYTREE)
DAY 2: Kyoto (Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama)
DAY 3: Kyoto (Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji)
DAY 4: Osaka (Osaka Castle, Dotonbori)
DAY 5: Hiroshima (Atomic Bomb Dome, Itsukushima Shrine *JR West Miyajima Ferry only is covered by the pass)
DAY 6: Fukuoka/Hakata (Nakasu Yatai food stalls, Canal City Hakata)
DAY 7: Kumamoto/Aso *To reach Mt. Aso (Aso Nakadake Crater), a bus and separate fare are required.
This 7-day itinerary takes you by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukuoka, allowing you to experience Japan’s most iconic history, culture, cuisine, and scenic landscapes.
[Recommended for]
Travelers who want to visit multiple destinations across Japan, not only Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, but also Hokkaido and Kyushu.
JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
The JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass allows you to travel around southern Hokkaido and northern eastern Japan. It is convenient to use from New Chitose Airport and offers a wide range of sightseeing at a more affordable price than the nationwide pass.
Prices and Available Areas
[Price] (6 days)
・Adult (12 years and older): ¥40,000
・Child (6–11 years old): ¥20,000
[Available Areas]
・JR East lines (including BRT)
・JR Hokkaido lines (Hakodate, Sapporo, and Otaru areas)
・All Tokyo Monorail lines (Tokyo Panorama Line)
・All Aoimori Railway lines
・All IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway lines
・All Sendai Airport Transit lines
・Reserved seats in ordinary cars on the limited express trains “Nikko,” “Kinugawa,” and “Spacia Kinugawa,” which operate continuously between JR East and Tobu Railway
・Ordinary trains (including rapid trains) between Shimo-Imaichi and Tobu-Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen on Tobu Railway
・Between Kurihashi and Shimo-Imaichi, only limited express trains that operate continuously with Tobu Railway are available
Recommended Itinerary (6 days)
DAY 1: New Chitose Airport, Sapporo, Otaru (Otaru Canal)
DAY 2: Hakodate
DAY 3: Shin-Aomori (Nebuta Museum WA RASSE)
DAY 4: Morioka (Wanko Soba), Sendai (Zuihoden)
DAY 5: Kinugawa Onsen (River Boat Ride), Nikko (Nikko Toshogu Shrine)
DAY 6: Utsunomiya (Gyoza), Tokyo (Senso-ji Temple)
A 6-day sightseeing route that takes you from Hokkaido through Tohoku and all the way to Tokyo, visiting popular tourist destinations along the way. You can enjoy a well-balanced mix of magnificent nature, historic townscapes, and local gourmet cuisine.
【Recommended for】
Travelers who want to enjoy both Hokkaido and Tohoku together, and those who want to efficiently travel all the way to Tokyo.
JR Tohoku-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
The JR Tohoku-South Hokkaido Rail Pass is a rail pass covering southern Hokkaido, including Hakodate, and the Tohoku area. You can fully enjoy the exotic streets of Hakodate, hot springs, nature, and gourmet food throughout Tohoku.
Price and Available Areas
【Price】 (6 days)
・Adult (12 years and older): 32,000 yen
・Child (6–11 years old): 16,000 yen
【Available Areas】
・JR East lines (including BRT)
・JR Hokkaido lines (Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru areas)
・Entire Aoimori Railway Line
・Entire IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway Line
・Entire Sendai Airport Transit Line
Recommended Itinerary (6 days)
DAY 1: Hakodate (Red Brick Warehouses)
DAY 2: Shin-Aomori (Nebuta Museum WA RASSE)
DAY 3: Lake Tazawa (Statue of Tatsuko, Gozaishi Shrine *Bus required, extra fare needed)
DAY 4: Sendai (Sendai Castle Ruins, Zuihoden Mausoleum)
DAY 5: Matsushima, Zuiganji Temple
DAY 6: Yamagata, Oishida (Ginzan Onsen *Bus required, extra fare needed)
This recommended itinerary lets you travel from southern Hokkaido through various parts of Tohoku, enjoying port town scenery, traditional culture, famous castles, and one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Spots—Matsushima—so you can fully experience the charms of Tohoku.
【Recommended for】
Travelers who want to enjoy hot springs, nature, and local gourmet food mainly in Tohoku, and those who want to visit major sightseeing spots in Tohoku in a short period.
JR East Pass *5 days or 10 days
The JR East Pass is a rail pass that allows you to explore Tohoku from a base in Tokyo. There are 5-day and 10-day versions, so you can choose the duration that suits you best.
It allows you to efficiently explore Tohoku’s unique attractions, including hot spring resorts, scenic natural areas, and historic townscapes.
🎫Purchase JR East Pass here【kkday】
Price and Available Areas
【Price】
| Adult (12 years and older) | Child (6–11 years old) | |
5 days | 35,000 yen | 17,500 yen |
10 days | 50,000 yen | 25,000 yen |
【Available Areas】
・JR East lines (including BRT)
・Entire Tokyo Monorail (Tokyo Panorama Line)
・Entire Aoimori Railway Line
・Entire IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway Line
・Entire Sendai Airport Transit Line
・Entire Sanriku Railway Line
・Entire Hokuhoku Line
・Echigo Tokimeki Railway between Naoetsu and Arai
・Reserved seats in ordinary cars on the limited express trains “Nikko,” “Kinugawa,” and “Spacia Kinugawa,” which run continuously between JR East and Tobu Railway
・Ordinary trains (including rapid trains) between Shimo-Imaichi and Tobu-Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen on Tobu Railway
・Between Kurihashi and Shimo-Imaichi, only limited express trains that run continuously with Tobu Railway can be used
・JR buses within the area (excluding expressways and some local routes)
Recommended Itinerary (5 days)
DAY 1: Tokyo, Utsunomiya (Oya History Museum)
DAY 2: Yamagata, Yamadera (Risshakuji Temple on Mt. Hoju)
DAY 3: Sendai (Gyutan grilled beef tongue, Sendai Castle Ruins)
DAY 4: Shin-Aomori (Nebuta Museum WA RASSE)
DAY 5: Shichinohe-Towada (Oirase Gorge)
This is a 5-day recommended itinerary where you travel north from Tokyo on the Tohoku Shinkansen, enjoying historic temples and castle ruins, local gourmet cuisine, and abundant nature.
【Recommended for】
Travelers who want to explore both the Tokyo area and Tohoku in a single trip.
JR TOKYO Wide Pass
The JR TOKYO Wide Pass is a great value rail pass that allows you to visit popular sightseeing spots around the Tokyo area. You can use it on limited express trains and Shinkansen bound for places like Kawaguchiko, Karuizawa, and Izu, making it convenient for day trips as well.
🎫 Click here to purchase the JR TOKYO Wide Pass【kkday】
Price and Valid Areas
【Price】(3 days)
・Adult (12 years and older): 16,000 yen
・Child (6–11 years old): 8,000 yen
【Valid Areas】
・JR East lines
・All Tokyo Monorail lines
・All Izu Kyuko lines
・All Fujikyu Railway lines
・All Joshin Dentetsu lines
・Saitama New Urban Transit (Omiya – Railway Museum)
・All Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit lines
・Reserved seats in ordinary cars on the limited express trains “Nikko,” “Kinugawa,” and “Spacia Kinugawa,” which run continuously between JR East and Tobu Railway
・Ordinary trains (including rapid trains) on Tobu Railway between Shimo-Imaichi and Tobu-Nikko, and Kinugawa Onsen
・Between Kurihashi and Shimo-Imaichi, only limited express trains that run continuously with Tobu Railway can be used
Recommended Itinerary (3 days)
DAY 1: Tokyo / Kawaguchiko (Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway) *A separate fare is required between Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station
DAY 2: Karuizawa (Kumoba Pond) / Nakakaruizawa (Harunire Terrace)
DAY 3: Atami (hot spring town) / Izu-Kogen Station (Omuroyama)
This itinerary lets you easily explore popular destinations accessible from Tokyo, including Mt. Fuji, the mountain resort of Karuizawa, and the hot spring destinations of Atami and Izu.
【Recommended for】
Travelers who want to enjoy sightseeing around Tokyo during their stay, or those who want to experience nature while staying in the Kanto area.
Hokuriku Arch Pass
The Hokuriku Arch Pass is a popular pass that allows you to travel from Tokyo to the Hokuriku area, including Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa, as well as Kyoto and Osaka. By making use of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, you can enjoy historic townscapes and rich food culture.
Price and Valid Areas
【Price】(7 days)
・Adult (12 years and older): 35,000 yen
・Child (6–11 years old): 17,500 yen
【Valid Areas】
・JR East lines
・JR West lines
・All Tokyo Monorail lines (Tokyo Panorama Line)
・IR Ishikawa Railway: Only when passing through between Kanazawa Station and Tsubata Station
・Ainokaze Toyama Railway: Only when passing through between Takaoka Station and Toyama Station *Liner fee required
・Noto Railway (Nanao Station – Wakura Onsen Station)
・Hapi-Line Fukui: Only when passing through between Fukui and Echizen-Hanando
Recommended Itinerary (7 days)
DAY 1: Tokyo / Nagano (Zenkoji Temple)
DAY 2: Nagano (Togakushi Shrine *Bus required, separate fare needed)
DAY 3: Toyama (Amaharashi Coast)
DAY 4: Kanazawa (Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya District, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Omicho Market)
DAY 5: Fukui / Awara Onsen
DAY 6: Kyoto (Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion)
DAY 7: Osaka (Dotonbori, Osaka Castle)
This is a 7-day recommended itinerary traveling from Tokyo to Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, and then on to Kyoto and Osaka. You can efficiently enjoy popular sightseeing spots in both Hokuriku and Kansai.
【Recommended for】
Travelers who want to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka while also enjoying the Hokuriku area, such as Kanazawa and Toyama.
Kansai WIDE Area Pass
The Kansai WIDE Area Pass can be used widely throughout the Kansai and Chugoku regions, including Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Kinosaki Onsen, Okayama, and Kurashiki. It is a convenient pass for visiting World Heritage sites and hot spring resorts.
There are also regional passes available depending on the areas you plan to visit.
🎫 JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass 5 Days
Price and Available Areas
[Price] (5 days)
・Adult: 12,000 yen
・Child: 6,000 yen
[Available Areas]
・Reserved seats on the Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka ⇔ Okayama)
・Reserved seats on limited express trains such as "Haruka," "Kuroshio," "Kounotori," "Super Hakuto," and others
・Special Rapid, Rapid, and Local trains on JR West and JR Shikoku conventional lines
Recommended Itinerary (5 Days)
DAY 1: Osaka (Dotonbori, Osaka Castle)
DAY 2: Kyoto (Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Taisha)
DAY 3: Amanohashidate (Ine Funaya Boathouses) / Kinosaki Onsen (visiting the public bathhouses, overnight stay)
DAY 4: Himeji (Himeji Castle) / Okayama (Korakuen Garden)
DAY 5: Kurashiki (Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter) / Takamatsu (Ritsurin Garden, Udon tour)
This 5-day recommended itinerary allows you to fully enjoy history, breathtaking scenery, hot springs, and gourmet food, not only in classic destinations like Kyoto and Osaka, but also in places like Ine no Funaya, Kinosaki Onsen, Okayama, Kurashiki, and Kagawa.
[Recommended For]
Travelers who want to visit not only the classic sights of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, but also venture out to Kinosaki Onsen, Kurashiki, and Kagawa.
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is a convenient pass that allows you to travel all over Kyushu by train. You can efficiently move between popular destinations such as Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Beppu, Yufuin, and Kagoshima, and it also covers the Kyushu Shinkansen and sightseeing trains.
There are also versions for specific areas, such as the Northern Kyushu and Southern Kyushu passes, depending on your travel plans.
🎫 JR Kyushu Rail Pass: All Kyushu, Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu【kkday】
Price and Available Areas
[Price]
| Adult | Child | |
3 days | 22,000 yen | 11,000 yen |
5 days | 24,000 yen | 12,000 yen |
7 days | 26,000 yen | 13,000 yen |
[Available Areas]
・Local trains
・Limited express trains
・Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata – Kagoshima-Chuo)
・Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen (Takeo Onsen – Nagasaki)
Recommended Suggested Itinerary (5 Days)
DAY 1: Fukuoka (Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine) / Kumamoto
DAY 2: Kumamoto Castle / Aso (*To visit Kusasenri and Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater, use a bus and pay a separate fare)
DAY 3: Beppu (Jigoku Meguri *Bus use and separate fare required)
DAY 4: Yufuin (Lake Kinrin, Yunotsubo Kaido Street)
DAY 5: Kagoshima (Sengan-en, Sakurajima *Sakurajima Ferry requires a separate fare)
This 5-day itinerary takes you to Kyushu’s top sightseeing destinations, including iconic landmarks such as Kumamoto Castle and Sakurajima, the magnificent natural scenery of Aso, and the famous hot springs of Beppu and Yufuin.
[Recommended For]
Travelers who want to fully enjoy Kyushu’s unique attractions such as hot springs, stunning scenery, and gourmet food.
Travel Around Japan More Affordably with the JR PASS
When choosing a JR Pass, it’s important to select the best pass according to the area you’ll be traveling in and the distances you’ll cover.
If you want to travel all over Japan from Hokkaido to Kyushu, the “JR PASS (Nationwide)” is recommended, while regional passes may be more economical if you plan to focus on a specific area. Compare the features, available areas, and prices of each pass to find the one that best fits your itinerary.
Please use the Suggested Itineraries introduced in this article as a reference to fully enjoy Japan’s unique scenic views, gourmet cuisine, and culture.
Comments