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JR Rail Pass Calculator - Save money on your trip

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

After buying plane tickets, the JR Rail Pass is the next thing travellers search for in preparation for their trip to Japan. But do you really need to get one and how much will you save? If you already have a basic idea of the major centers you will travel to while in Japan, it’s pretty easy to calculate.

The JR Rail Pass - An Introduction

JR Shinkansen

The JR Rail Pass, also known as the Japan Rail Pass, lets you travel on basically any JR line train for a certain period of time. When you are buying the rail pass, it comes with a few different options: • It is available in two types; the Ordinary Pass is for regular reserved or unreserved seating, and the Green pass is for business-class style seating and service in the Green Car. • You can choose from three time periods; 7 days, 14 days, or 21 days. The pass is valid for that period of time from the day that it is first used. • There is a children's ticket available for children aged 6 to 11 years old.

JR Rail Pass prices -

A 7-day Ordinary Pass will cost 50,000 yen for adults and 25,000 yen for children. A 7-day Green Car Pass will cost 70,000 yen for adults and 35,000 yen for children. A 14-day Ordinary Pass will cost 80,000 yen for adults and 40,000 yen for children. A 14-day Green Car Pass will cost 110,000 yen for adults and 55,000 yen for children. A 21-day Ordinary Pass will cost 100,000 yen for adults and 50,000 yen for children. A 21-day Green Car Pass will cost 140,000 yen for adults and 70,000 yen for children.

Shinkansen ticket prices

The way shinkansen tickets are priced can be a little confusing, as the price is often shown (on Japanese websites as well as on the ticket itself) as being broken up into two separate components. The first is the base price to travel from station A to station B on any train, and the second is the price to travel on the shinkansen specifically. For example, to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto the base price is 8,360 yen. As you may know if you have read our ultimate guide to riding the shinkansen , there are three different types of seats you can book: a non-reserved Seat will be the cheapest at 4,960 yen, a reserved seat will guarantee you a place to sit for 5,610 yen, and a Green Car seat will have you relaxing in comfort at 10,480 yen. Combine these two prices and you have the total cost of the shinkansen ticket; 13,320 yen for a non-reserved seat, 13,970 yen for a reserved seat, and 18,840 yen for a Green Car seat.

Train ticket prices (one-way) for popular routes -

JR train from Tokyo to Kyoto (Japan Travel by NAVITIME)

From Tokyo - Tokyo to Kyoto: 13,320 yen Tokyo to Osaka: 13,870 yen Tokyo to Nara: 13,870 yen Tokyo to Hakone: 3,280 yen Tokyo to Hiroshima: 18,380 yen Tokyo to Nagoya: 10,560 yen Tokyo to Kobe: 14,420 yen Tokyo to Takayama: 14,190 yen Tokyo to Kanazawa: 13,850 yen Tokyo to Nikko: 5,680 yen

From Osaka: Osaka to Nara: 820 yen Osaka to Kyoto: 1,450 yen Osaka to Kobe: 1,530 yen Osaka to Hiroshima: 9,890 yen Osaka to Hakata (Fukuoka): 14,750 yen Osaka to Naoshima: 6,570 yen Osaka to Tottori: 8,080 yen Osaka to Kagoshima: 21,780 yen Osaka to Beppu: 16,990 yen

How to calculate how much you will save

Most route finder sites and apps aren’t able to accurately represent the amount you would save by using a JR Rail Pass because they often choose routes or trains that can be faster or cheaper but not valid; usually because they are run by other train companies. This can create a situation where a train trip that you thought would be covered by the JR Rail Pass becomes an extra expense once you are here. By using the Japan Travel by NAVITIME Train & Route Finder , and selecting ‘Japan Rail Pass’ in the ‘Several Pass / Tickets selected’ menu, you can search exclusively for routes that are free to use for JR Rail Pass holders. By adding up the trips to the destinations you will travel to while in Japan, you can see how much you will save by picking up a rail pass. You can also get the same search results in the Japan Travel by NAVITIME app for iOS and Android . When you're ready to get your Japan Rail Pass, you can purchase online from here.

If you’re not planning on getting a JR Rail Pass — maybe because you will stay in Tokyo or Osaka while you are here — the Japan Travel by NAVITIME Train & Route Finder can also be helpful, as you can also get routes based on the Tokyo Metro ‘Tokyo Subway Ticket’ and Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau’s ‘Osaka Amazing Pass’. ***All prices in this article are correct as of April 2024***

Japan Travel by NAVITIME Train & Route Finder

Related article: Travel Tips in Japan：What to Wear and Packing Checklist

Click here for a summary article including this article

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Japan Rail Pass Calculator

Japan train fare calculator.

Japan Rail Pass Calculator

Is the japan rail pass worth it.

This is one of the most asked questions when preparing for a trip to Japan, and although the JR Pass can save you a lot of money, sometimes it isn’t worth it. This is why I decided to create this tool, so you can check easily if you should buy the pass for your trip or not. It compares the price of regular tickets (mostly Shinkansen tickets) with the price of the JR Pass.

How to use the JR Pass Calculator?

• Select your departure city
• Select your destination city
• Check the round-trip box if you’re doing a round-trip
• Hit the ADD ROUTE button to add the selected route to your itinerary

Did you make a mistake? No problem, you can delete a route by hitting the DELETE button at the end of the row. Each route you add or remove will change the total price, so you can see in real-time if the JR Pass is worth it. For now, this tool only includes the fastest routes where the JR Pass is available. The price of the seat reservation is also included in each route price.

This tool is still being upgraded and doesn’t have yet all the stations available. Therefore, there are some things you should be aware of when using this tool:

• You won’t see cheaper options, like buses, for example. For now, only Shinkansen and limited express routes are available.
• Ticket prices aren’t updated daily, so there might be a small difference between the actual price and the one provided in the tool (until our next update)
• Only major stations are included in the tool for the moment (other stations will be included progressively).

If you want to give your feedback about this tool, please use this form .

This tool is meant to help you have an idea if a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for your itinerary or not. Individual ticket costs may not be 100% accurate, even if we try to keep them updated regularly, and they also might vary according to the season.

Please notice that the tool only compares the fastest transportation types, where you can use the Japan Rail Pass. Other options that might be cheaper, like night buses or local trains, for instance, are not analyzed with this tool.

This is an independent tool provided “as is”. We recommend using Japan Travel by Navitime to check each individual ticket price and every route available.

Guide to plan your trip. Fare Calculation

This website shows you a lot of the train passes. But some of you plan to buy a regular ticket. Even if you will use the rail pass, you may have to compare the price of the pass and the regular fare to make sure that you can get the worth of it or not.

In this post, I would like to share the information about the fare calculation with you.

JR’s rule on passenger’s ticket

Jr hokkaido official website, jr west english website, jr shikoku english website.

This is the easiest way to get the fare and the timetable of most trains in Japan. Please refer the link below to learn more:

Google map can show you the train and the public bus routes. It also shows you the fare.

JR companies have the biggest train network in Japan. If you travel between major cities, you will take JR train in most cases.

The fare rule is so difficult to understand for the tourists from overseas. Even some travel agents in Japan do not understand the rule completely.

I wrote about this rule as simple as possible in the post below. You can learn the rule of purchasing and using a regular ticket.

JR company’s official site

Some JR companies have the timetable and fare search engine in their official sites.

This website offers you the fare and timetable search of most JR trains.

This website shows you the fare table of most of JR Shikoku lines.

Hello, Takeshi. I’m glad to have stumbled upon your website! Thank you for the HyperDia link. I’m trying to figure out what’s the most cost-effective way to get around Japan and would like to have your advice. Below’s a rough draft of my itinerary:

Day 1: Narita Airport – Kanazawa Day 2-3: Kanazawa (only buses to no transportation needed) Day 4: Kanazawa – Kyoto Day 5: Kyoto – Uji (round-trip) Day 6-10: Kyoto (buses and local railways) Day 11: Kyoto – Kinosaki Day 12: Kinosaki – Osaka Day 13: Osaka – Nara (round-trip) Day 14: Osaka – Himeji (round-trip) Day 15-20: Osaka (buses and local railways) Day 21: Osaka – Hyuga Day 22: Hyuga (no transportation needed) Day 23: Hyuga – Tokyo Day 24: Tokyo – Kamakura (round-trip) Day 25: Tokyo – Kamakura (round-trip) Day 26-29: Tokyo (buses and local railways; mostly JR Line) Day 30: Narita Airport-bound

I’m planning to travel by train from Osaka to Hyuga and would be willing to spend for airfare on my way back to Tokyo, but if it’s too impractical, I’m considering cancelling the trip to Hyuga altogether. I would REALLY want to catch some waves in Hyuga though!! However, should you suggest I cancel, this will probably be the alternative itinerary from Day 21: Day 21: Osaka – Kamakura or Enoden (depends on where I’ll stay) Day 22-23: Kamakura / Enoden / Hakone Day 24: Kamakura or Enoden – Tokyo Day 25-29: Tokyo (buses and local railways; mostly JR Line) Day 30: airport-bound

I’ve read about JR Passes, Kansai One Pass, Hakone Kamakura Pass, etc. and I’m not sure which one to go for and it’s been overwhelming! I’d really appreciate the help. I hope to hear from you soon. よろしくお願いします！

Much thanks, Jezreel

Hi Jezreel,

If you want to include Hyuga, you should fly from Osaka and to Tokyo. It is too far to get there by a train. It takes 8 hours from Osaka to get to Miyazaki. And it takes more than 10 hours from Miyazaki to Tokyo. I don’t believe it is a realistic choice. That is why a flight is your choice if you incldue Hyuga.

Overnight ferry may be considerable from Kobe to Miyazaki. https://www.miyazakicarferry.com/en/

For the rest part of your trip, JR pass (nationwide) does not fit your trip plan. If you hop on and off many places daily basis, it works. But you will stay for a few days or more at each places. I recommend you to use several rail passes, local deals and regular fare tickets:

Hokuriku Arch Pass for the first 7 days: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/tokyo-osaka-hokuriku-arch-pass-user-guide-clarify-valid-trains-coverage-area-and-compare-single-fare-and-pass.html

Kyoto city deal or regular fare ticket for day 8, 9 and 10 https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html

Kansai Wide Area Pass for day 11 to 15 https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/the-newest-jr-west-rail-pass-for-kansai-and-okayama-kurashiki-kinosakai-and-shingu-area-kansai-wide-area-pass.html

Osaka city deal or regular fare ticket https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html

Even if you don’t go to Hyuga, you should go to Tokyo first. Because Hakone Kamakura Pass is the best deal for Hakone and Kamakura. But this is not sold other than Shinjuku in Tokyo. https://www.odakyu.jp/english/passes/hakone_kamakura/

And there are some affordable way from Osaka to Tokyo. If you want to take the Shinkansen, you can use Platt Kodama: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/platt-kodama-one-way-deal-among-tokyo-nagoya-kyoto-and-shin-osaka-by-shinkansen.html

If you are really sensitive with a cost, you can take an overnight bus from Osaka to Tokyo. Just google “Osaka Tokyo overnight bus.” You will find many options.

And you can use Tokyo Subway Ticket in Tokyo: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html

Please see the link below to find the deal for Narita: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/narita/the-list-of-deals-for-access-to-downtown-tokyo-from-narita-airport.html

Takeshi / JPRail.com

Hello, Takeshi. I ticked the “notify me of follow-up comments by email” at the bottom of the comment section but no notification email arrived at all (even if you already replied two days ago); I’m glad to have visited your website again to double-check.

Thank you very much for your quick reply. I’ll look into my options. I appreciate the help.

Thanks again, Jezreel

No worries, Jezreel.

By the way, I tried to leave a comment and I ticked. It worked properly. But thanks for your comment anyway.

Hello, Takeshi. I hope you are doing well. I apologize for the trouble but I’m here again to ask for your suggestions as I have made some changes in my itinerary. As I previously mentioned, I wanted to visit Hyuga but decided against it so I opted to stay in Hakone instead. This is how my schedule is going to look like:

Day 15-19: Osaka (buses and local railways) Day 20: Osaka – Hakone (Gora Stn. as base) Day 21: Hakone (Odakyu Line only; unsure between Hakone Free Pass or Hakone Kamakura Pass) Day 22: Hakone – Kamakura (round-trip; prefer to use faster JR Line) Day 23: Hakone – Kamakura – Tokyo (JR Line preferred) Day 24-29: Tokyo (Mejiro Stn. as base; mainly JR Yamanote Line and subways) Day 30: Narita Airport-bound

I look forward to your reply.

Thank you in advance, Jezreel

Unforunately there is no deals to cover whole part of your trip.

I have already recommended some local deals for staying of Osaka in the previous reply.

For Osaka to Hakone, you have to use a regular ticket to take the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Odawara. At Odawara, you can buy Hakone Free Pass. You cannot buy Hakone Kamakura Pass in Odawara. I think I told you that in the previsou reply. It’s sold in Shinjuku only: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1to3-days/how-to-build-the-trip-plan-to-hakone-various-sample-itineraries-of-hakone.html https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/odawara-station-guide-how-to-transfer-to-the-train-to-hakone.html

You have to buy a regular ticket one by one for Odawara to Kamakura, Kamakura to Odawara, Odawara to Kamakura again and Kamakura to Tokyo. There is no deals available either. But you can use Hakone Free Pass for Gora to Odawara

If you visit 3 or 4 places in one day, you can use Tokunai Pass in Tokyo. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/tokyo-metropolitan-district-pass-tokyo-tokunai-pass-good-choice-for-sightseeing-in-tokyo.html

I also mentioned about Tokyo Subway Ticket and the deal for Narita airport in the previous reply. Please refer it.

Noted. I’ll keep all your suggestions in mind. Thank you very much for all your help!

All the best, Jezreel

Hi Takeshi,

I would like to kindly seek your advice on the best possible combination of passes for our itinerary. We are a family of four (kids 5 and 4 yrs), traveling April 13-26.

Day 1: Narita >> Tokyo (staying at Shinagawa) Day 2: Day trip Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko) Day 3: Tokyo >> Hakone (overnight in Hakone) Day 4: Hakone >> Kyoto Day 5: Kyoto Day 6: Kyoto Day 7: Kyoto >> Nara >> Osaka Day 8: Osaka Day 9: Osaka Day 10: Osaka >> Tokyo Day 11: DisneySea Day 12: Tokyo Day 13: Tokyo Day 14: Tokyo >> Narita

Thank you in advance!

I recommend you to use Tokyo Wide Pass for the first 3 days: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/tokyo-wide-pass-is-newer-version-of-kanto-area-pass-nikko-fuji-gala-yuzawa-and-odaiba-are-covered-by-this-pass.html

You may take Narita Express for Narita to Shinagawa, the limited express Fuji Kaiyu for Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko and the limited express Odoriko for Shinagawa to Odawara: https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/narita-express.html https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/limited-express-azusa-super-azusa-and-kaiji.html https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/odoriko-super-view-odoriko.html

You have to add Hakone Free Pass after Odawara. Tokyo Wide Pass does not cover Hakone: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1to3-days/how-to-build-the-trip-plan-to-hakone-various-sample-itineraries-of-hakone.html

After day 4, you may use JR pass 7-day for Odawara-Kyoto/Nara/Osaka-Tokyo. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/japan-rail-pass-user-guide-how-to-use-jr-pass-to-its-maximum.html

You may use Tokyo Subway Ticket and Subway Ticket/Limousine bus combo deal (one bus ticket and 24 hours subway pass) for sightseeing in Tokyo and Tokyo to Narita: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/guide/ticket/subwaypass.html

Hi Takeshi! I’d like to get your advice on the possible combination of JR passes. We will be travelling from April 15-22 in the following places.

Day 1 Narita -> Akita Day 2 Akita Day 3 Akita -> Kawaguchiko Day 4 Fuji 5 lakes region Day 5 Fuji 5 lakes region -> Hakone -> Tokyo Day 6 Tokyo -> Tochigi -> Ibaraki -> Tokyo Day 7 Tokyo Day 8 Tokyo -> Narita

Thank you for your help in advance. Emily

You may use JR East Pass Tohoku and Fuji Hakone Pass (from Odawara at 7,180 yen): https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/jr-east-pass-tohoku-flex-5-days-pass-in-14-days-period-to-cover-tokyo-surrounding-area-of-tokyo-and-tohoku-region.html https://www.odakyu.jp/english/passes/fujihakone/

You may use JR East Pass Tohoku for day 1, 3, 5, 6 and 8. Fuji Hakone Pass covers for your stay in Fuji and Hakone. But both passes do not cover Otsuki to Shimo-Yoshida. You have to pay about 1,000 yen to buy a regular ticket at Otsuki station. And you cannot purchase Fuji Hakone Pass at Otsuki or Kawaguchiko. You must buy it at Shinjuku station.

Just pay as you need for day 2. You may add subway pass for day 7 if you need. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html

Dear Takeshi, I would like to kindly ask you for your advice on the possible combination of passes. We will be travelling in the period of May 1st and May 23rd.

Day 1 Haneda -> Tokyo Day 2 Tokyo Day 3 Tokyo -> Nikko -> Tokyo Day 4 Tokyo Day 5 Tokyo -> Shimoyoshida Day 6 Fuji 5 lakes region Day 7 Shimoyoshida->Magome Day 8 Tsunamo ->Takayama Day 9 Takayama Day 10 Takayama -> Shirakawago->Kanawaza->Kyoto Day 11-13 Kyoto Day 14 Kyoto ->Hiroshima + Himeji and back Day 15 Kyoto-Nara and back Day 16-Day 17 Kyoto – Koyasan an back Day 18 Kyoto -> Jomo-Kogen Day 20 Jomo-Kogen ->Chichibu Day 22 Chichibu->Tokyo Day 23 Tokyo-> Haneda

Thank you for your help in advance. Michaela

Hi Michaela,

The following deals are recommended: Day 1 and 2 Welcome Tokyo Subway Ticket from Haneda https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/airport_bus/index.html

Day 3 to 5 Tokyo Wide Pass https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/tokyo-wide-pass-is-newer-version-of-kanto-area-pass-nikko-fuji-gala-yuzawa-and-odaiba-are-covered-by-this-pass.html

Day 6 Add a regular bus ticket or Mt. Fuji Pass as you need. http://bus-en.fujikyu.co.jp/

Day 7 Add a regular fare to take an express bus to Mishima. http://bus-en.fujikyu.co.jp/highway/detail/id/29

From Mishima, start using JR pass 14-day for day 7 to 20. But JR pass does not cover the bus to Shirakawago, Nankai Railway to Koyasan, and Chichibu railway from Kumgaya to Chichibu. I have posts about the access to Koyasan and Shirakawago. Please see the links below: https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/how-to-get-mt-koya.html https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-get-shirakawa-go.html

For day 21 to 23, just add a regular fare ticket.

I would like to seek your advise on the jr pass stopover and estimate fare. 29th Oct (Tue) – Osaka to Wakayamma 30th Oct (Wed) – Wakayama to Kyoto 2nd Nov (Sun) – Kyoto to Kanazawa 4th Nov (Mon) – Kanazawa to Tokyo

Appreciate if you can advise if it is possible for me to use a stopover ticket or which is the best option available. Thank you

I recommend you to use Hokuriku Arch Pass: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/tokyo-osaka-hokuriku-arch-pass-user-guide-clarify-valid-trains-coverage-area-and-compare-single-fare-and-pass.html

Wakayama is outside the coverage area. You have to add the fare for Hineno-Wakayama. The one way fare is 460 yen. You can pay this fare when you exit Wakayama station. You can show your Hokuriku arch pass + this fare. The fare will be slightly higher because the consumer tax will increase on Oct 1st. But it’s just a bit higher.

When you go back to Kyoto from Wakayama, you can buy a ticket for Wakayama to Hineno. You can show your pass when you exit Kyoto.

Thank you very much for your advise.

I saw this information from some page “The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is a rail pass for exclusive use by foreign tourists, providing five consecutive days of unlimited travel on designated train and bus lines (including unreserved seats on shinkansen and limited express trains) in the Kansai Region.”

We would like to seek your advise and more information on Kansai Wide Area Pass. a) do we have to pay additional fee if we take the limited express from osaka to shirahama and from shirahama to kyoto. b) if we like to avoid additional fee, which are the type of train we can take. Thank you.

The limited express Kuroshio between Shin-Osaka and Shirahama is covered. https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kuroshio-ocean-arrow.html

You cannot reserve a seat but usually non reserved seat is okay. Please find more info about non reserved seat in the link below: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html

I would like to seek your advise on the jr pass stopover and estimate fare. 29th Oct (Tue) – Osaka to Wakayamma 30th Oct (Wed) – Wakayama to Kyoto 2nd Nov (Sun) – Kyoto to tokyo

Appreciate if you can advise if it is possible for me to use a stopover ticket for the above route, the maximum number of stopover days for the above route, or any other the best option available. Thank you

You can use one base fare ticket for Wakayama to Tokyo with stopover in Kyoto. But you have to buy a ticket separately for Osaka to Wakayama. You can take same route between Osaka and Wakayama when you go to Kyoto. Please use hyperdia to find the fare as I instructed in the post above.

You also may use Platt Kodama for Kyoto to Tokyo. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/platt-kodama-one-way-deal-among-tokyo-nagoya-kyoto-and-shin-osaka-by-shinkansen.html

In this case, you have to buy a ticket one by one for Osaka to Wakayama, Wakayama to Kyoto and Platt Kodama for Kyoto to Tokyo.

Hi Takeshi, We are 6 adults travelling to Japan for the first time and need advise on your train network. We arrive in Osaka Kansai airport 17th October 2019, what is the best way to get into Osaka as we are staying at Hotel Monterey Le Frere we will be in Osaka for 9 days. We are planning to visit universal studios, Kobe, Nara, Kyoto. If time allows then maybe Hiroshima. We then wish to travel by bullet train to Tokyo 27th October. In Tokyo we are staying at the b Tokyo Asakusa we have 9 days here and wish to visit Mount Fuji, Disneyland,Yokohama, the horse racing. We then depart 6th November from Narita Airport terminal 1. Any assistance you can give would be very helpful. Kind Regards Sandra V Finch

The best way to get your hotel in Osaka is taking Kansai airport rapid train from KIX to Osaka station: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/how-to-get-kansai-airport-and-wakayama-kansai-airport-rapid-service-and-kishuji-rapid-service.html

You may use Kansai one pass + Haruka deal to Tennoji for arrival day: https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/icoca-and-haruka-ticket-very-flexible-and-good-deal-for-tourist-who-stay-in-kansai.html

This deal covers the limited express Haruka. But this train does not go to Osaka station. You can take this train from KIX to Tennoji and then take a local train to get Osaka as well. You can take Kansai airport rapid from KIX to Osaka by this deal as well. The limited express Haruka offers much better accommodation but you have to change the trains at Tennoji. Kansai airport rapid is a sort of the commute trains but it goes to Osaka directly. You can take whichever you like.

JR Pass 7-day is highly recommended if you go to Hiroshima. You must include the trip to Hiroshima to get the worth of JR Pass 7-day. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/japan-rail-pass-user-guide-how-to-use-jr-pass-to-its-maximum.html

If you use JR pass, you can use this the trip to Hiroshima, Kobe, Nara, Kyoto, Osaka to Tokyo, Disneyland and Yokohama. If you don’t go to Hiroshima, you have to combine some local deals and the regular ticket from Osaka to Tokyo. So you must make a decision to go to Hiroshima or not before you depart.

Please see the link below. It guides you how to make a trip in Osaka and Tokyo. If you don’t go to Hiroshima, you can get some idea about your trip in this link: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7to9-days/how-to-make-the-itinerary-of-tokyo-osaka-one-way-trip.html

Hi Thank you for your prompt reply we have decided not to visit Hiroshima. We are planning to get the bullet train from Osaka to Tokyo on the Sunday 27th October do we need to book tickets in advance or can we purchase the day before travel. Regards Sandra V Finch

If you can fix your trip plan, I recommend you to book a ticket in advance. If you cannot, that’s okay. You can book a seat on the day before you travel.

Hi Takeshi I find the guide you have given really comes in handy and useful. still will be great if can get some advice from you. I will be traveling from 27 Oct – 6 Nov This will be my first trip to Japan and im wondering if I should be getting the 7day jrailpass or should I stick to single fare is much more cost saving as I will be starting the trip at Haneda Airport and ending at Kansai Airport. (With an additional day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima). I dont have an exact plan yet but this is roughly what I come out with.

Day 1 – Arrival in the morning, Tokyo Day 2 – Tokyo Day 3 – Disneysea Day 4 – Tokyo to Hakone, night in Hakone Day 5 – Hakone to Kyoto, night in Kyoto Day 6 – Kyoto (Nara) Day 7 – Kyoto to Osaka, night in Osaka Day 8 – Osaka Day 9 – Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima (either day 9 or day 10) Day 10 – Osaka Day 11 – Afternoon flight at kansai Airport

Im still not sure if I should either add one more day in tokyo and one less day in Osaka or either way round or maybe for kyoto too. Hope you can advise if I should use the 7days pass or just single trip fare. Thank you so much in advance! 🙂

JR pass 7-days is recommended. You may start using it on day 4 when you leave for Hakone. It will be valid until day 10 and it will give you some flexibility. JR pass is not perfect in Kyoto and Osaka but you can take JR local trains in these cities and you can visit many places by JR pass. https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html

You can use the deal for the first two days: https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/airport_bus/index.html

The regular fare is okay for day 3.

You have to add Hakone Free Pass because JR pass does not cover after you arrive in Odawara: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1to3-days/how-to-build-the-trip-plan-to-hakone-various-sample-itineraries-of-hakone.html

And you can add other deal for the last day as you need: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html

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UPDATED! Japan Rail Pass: The Ultimate Guide (2024 Edition)

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Download my "Essential Japan Rail Pass" checklist:

Selecting a start date for the Pass

When you exchange your voucher for the actual pass, you can select any start date provided it is within one month from the day you exchange . Note: once the actual pass is issued, the start date cannot be changed. 

If you purchase passes through the official JR website you will need to select the start date of the passes at the time of purchase, and again, the start date cannot be changed later.

Where can I activate my Japan Rail Pass?

For Japan Rail Passes purchased in advance outside of Japan, you need to activate them at an exchange office after arriving in Japan . Exchange offices can be found in several major train stations and airports.

The official JR Pass website has a complete list of exchange offices here: https://japanrailpass.net/en/exchange.html .

How to make seat reservations

Seat reservations are free with the Japan Rail Pass . After exchanging your voucher for the actual pass, you can make seat reservations for JR trains for free at ticket machines or ticket offices across Japan. Note: reservations cannot be made on board trains.

How many times can I use the Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass can be used for unlimited rides for the duration of your pass (7, 14 or 21 consecutive days). The valid period is based on full calendar days (midnight to midnight) rather than 24 hour periods. For example, if you start using a 7-day pass at midday on day 1, it will expire at midnight at the end of day 7, and not at midday of day 8.

Japan Rail Pass FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you buy a japan rail pass in japan.

Yes, you can buy the Japan Rail pass at a ticket office in Japan, but it is more expensive to buy it inside the country than outside of the country in advance. 

Locations of the ticket offices in Japan can be found on official JR website here: https://japanrailpass.net/en/exchange.html

Where can I activate The Japan Rail Pass?

To activate your Japan Rail Pass, you must exchange your voucher at an exchange office after arriving in Japan. There are offices in airports and at major JR train stations; opening times will vary. Fill out the form with your details and present your passport and your "Temporary Visitor" stamp/sticker.

The official Japan Rail Pass website includes a list of all of the exchange offices: https://japanrailpass.net/en/exchange.html .

How to Use the JR Pass Calculator to Maximize Your Savings on Japan Rail Travel

The Japan Rail (JR) Pass is a great way to save money on rail travel in Japan. With the JR Pass, travelers can enjoy unlimited travel on JR trains for a set period of time. To maximize savings, travelers should use the JR Pass calculator to determine the best pass for their needs.

The JR Pass calculator is an online tool that helps travelers calculate the cost of their JR Pass. It takes into account the number of days of travel, the type of JR Pass, and the number of trips taken. The calculator then provides an estimate of the total cost of the JR Pass. This allows travelers to compare the cost of different passes and determine which one is the most cost-effective for their trip.

To use the JR Pass calculator , travelers should first select the type of JR Pass they want to purchase. There are two types of JR Passes: the Japan Rail Pass and the JR East Pass. The Japan Rail Pass is valid for travel on all JR trains throughout Japan, while the JR East Pass is valid for travel on JR trains in the eastern part of Japan.

Once the type of JR Pass has been selected, travelers should enter the number of days they plan to travel and the number of trips they plan to take. The calculator will then provide an estimate of the total cost of the JR Pass. This allows travelers to compare the cost of different passes and determine which one is the most cost-effective for their trip.

The JR Pass calculator is a great tool for travelers looking to maximize their savings on Japan Rail travel. By using the calculator, travelers can compare the cost of different passes and determine which one is the most cost-effective for their trip. With the JR Pass, travelers can enjoy unlimited travel on JR trains for a set period of time, making it an excellent way to save money on rail travel in Japan.

Exploring the Benefits of the JR Pass Calculator: A Guide to Planning Your Japan Rail Trip

The Japan Rail (JR) Pass Calculator is an invaluable tool for travelers planning a trip to Japan. This calculator allows travelers to quickly and easily calculate the cost of their JR Pass, which is a discounted ticket that allows unlimited travel on JR trains throughout Japan. The JR Pass calculator is a great way to plan a budget-friendly trip to Japan, as it allows travelers to compare the cost of a JR Pass to the cost of individual tickets.

The JR Pass calculator is easy to use and provides travelers with a comprehensive overview of their travel costs. To use the calculator, travelers simply enter their starting and ending destinations, as well as the number of days they plan to travel. The calculator then displays the cost of a JR Pass for the specified route and duration, as well as the cost of individual tickets for the same route. This allows travelers to compare the cost of a JR Pass to the cost of individual tickets and make an informed decision about which option is best for their budget.

In addition to providing travelers with an overview of their travel costs, the JR Pass calculator also offers a variety of other benefits. For example, the calculator can be used to plan out a route that takes advantage of the JR Pass’s unlimited travel benefits. This allows travelers to maximize their savings by visiting multiple destinations in one trip. Additionally, the calculator can be used to plan out a route that takes advantage of the JR Pass’s discounts on certain attractions and activities. This allows travelers to save money on sightseeing and other activities while still enjoying the convenience of unlimited travel.

Overall, the JR Pass calculator is an invaluable tool for travelers planning a trip to Japan. It allows travelers to quickly and easily calculate the cost of their JR Pass, compare the cost of a JR Pass to the cost of individual tickets, and plan out a route that takes advantage of the JR Pass’s unlimited travel and discounts on attractions and activities. By taking advantage of the benefits offered by the JR Pass calculator , travelers can save money and maximize their enjoyment of their trip to Japan.The JR Pass calculator is an invaluable tool for anyone planning a trip to Japan. It allows travelers to quickly and easily calculate the cost of their Japan Rail Pass and determine the best savings option for their trip. With the JR Pass calculator , travelers can save time and money by making informed decisions about their Japan Rail Pass purchase. With its easy-to-use interface and comprehensive features, the JR Pass calculator is an essential tool for anyone planning a trip to Japan.

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Japan Rail Pass

What is japan rail pass.

The Japan Rail Pass (also known as JR Pass) is a multi-use ticket that allows you to efficiently travel around Japan . It is valid for journeys on all major JR national trains including Shinkansen bullet trains and Narita Express trains. Passengers can select a pass which is valid for 7, 14 or 21 days and there is the option of Standard Pass or a Green Pass (first class).

Order your JR Pass online and you will receive an Exchange Order which you can swap for a JR Pass when you arrive in Japan.

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Jr pass exchange process.

Order online

Order your JR Pass online by following a few simple steps.

Receive your exchange order

You need to have a physical copy of the JR Pass voucher in order to exchange it in Japan.

Exchange order for the JR Pass

Go to any of the JR Exchange Offices in Japan. Exchange your order for the actual Japan Rail Pass.

Start your Japan experience!

Catch as many JR trains, buses, and transfers as you like with your multi-use JR Pass.

JR Green Pass

On-board service

First class comfort

Seat reservations

Separate train facilities

Larger seating and luggage space

Our clients feedback

Fast delivery and on time, I liked how easy it is to communicate with them, we were able to take full advantage of the days in Japan. Thank you very much jrailpass.com for making it possible for us to visit so many places.

This service is really good. The trains are very clean and quiet. Also their Pocket Wifi service is super good for long trips. We stayed in Japan 1 week and the 7 days pass was great for us. I highly recommend it!!!

The team at Jrailpass.com was incredibly responsive to my questions and concerns, making the entire experience stress-free. They were knowledgeable and helpful, guiding me through the process and ensuring that I had all the information that I needed.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can i buy the japan rail pass in japan.

The Japan Rail Pass is available at a higher price at several stations and airports in Japan until October 1, 2023. After this date, it will no longer be possible to buy the JR Pass locally in Japan.

Is there a children's discount?

Yes, there is a children’s discount of 50% and kids between 6 and 11 are eligible. The discount applies to Standard and Green JR Passes.

Can I have my order sent to Japan?

Yes, all orders (JR Pass, Pocket WiFi, Data SIM Card) can be sent to wherever you stay in Japan. You can choose the delivery address, whether it be your home address or your place of stay. Please note that due to Airbnb policy, we cannot deliver to an Airbnb in Japan, but we can have the order sent to the nearest post office.

What is included in the Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass is valid on JR express, express and local trains on JR network lines, JR local buses, the JR Miyajima ferry, and airport transfer trains such as the Narita Express and Haruka Express. All Shinkansen high-speed trains are also included, including the Nozomi and Mizuho trains, with the purchase of a special ticket to complement the JR Pass (from October 2023).

Do the 7 / 14 / 21 days need to be consecutive?

Yes, the selected number of days need to be consecutive. Once activated, the validity period of each pass cannot be changed or extended.

Can I book a seat on the JR Trains?

Yes, all JR Pass holders can book a seat on any of the JR trains. Reservations need to be made in advance before boarding the train.

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Purchasing tickets

To use the train, first purchase a ticket at a vending machine or ticket window. Pass your ticket through the automated ticket gate or show your ticket to the inspector. Please keep the ticket as you will need it once you arrive at your destination. Most, if not all trains stop operating late at night or around midnight.

Booking long-distance trains

To book tickets for long-distance trains, follow either one of two different procedures:

If you do not have a JAPAN RAIL PASS, please visit the JR Travel Service Center to purchase the necessary ticket.

Train Service Updates & Status

Check with each JR group for up-to-the-minute information about current operation status, service disruptions including cancellations and delays on Japan Railways Group.

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