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Book Japan Rail Pass
Unlimited nationwide travel on Japan’s iconic trains, buses, and ferries with one pass
- Everything you get: Enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, airport transfer trains, JR buses & the JR Miyajima Ferry. You can choose a 7/14/21-day pass & enjoy global door-delivery with the flexibility to activate your pass within 30 days of exchange.
- Why choose this: The JR Pass is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore all of Japan, offering seamless travel & exclusive discounts at local haunts.
- Upgrades: Bask in the vibrant atmosphere of second-class seats, or choose first-class seats for more quiet and extra legroom.
Unlimited nationwide travel on Japan’s iconic trains, buses, and ferries with one pass
- Everything you get: Enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, airport transfer trains, JR buses & the JR Miyajima Ferry. You can choose a 7/14/21-day pass & enjoy global door-delivery with the flexibility to activate your pass within 30 days of exchange.
- Why choose this: The JR Pass is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore all of Japan, offering seamless travel & exclusive discounts at local haunts.
- Upgrades: Bask in the vibrant atmosphere of second-class seats, or choose first-class seats for more quiet and extra legroom.
Inclusions
- Validity: 7/14/21 consecutive days
- 1st or 2nd class seats (based on option selected)
- Access to unlimited train rides on JR lines, including Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, rapid & local trains
- Access to local JR buses
- Access to JR Miyajima ferry rides
- Access to airport transfer trains (Narita Express and Haruka Express)
- Free worldwide mail delivery of the Exchange Order
- Discounts across Japan on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Get full rail network details and route maps here
Exclusions
- Access to Nozomi and Mizuho trains
- Access to JR Bus Express bus routes
- Most Shinkansen and Limited Express trains are wheelchair-accessible. You can reserve your spot at any JR ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi). Note that if accessible seats are full, you may not be able to board your desired train.
- Wheelchairs must meet specific size and feature requirements. Generally, power wheelchairs with steering wheels aren’t allowed, but they may be permitted under certain conditions.
- The JR pass is only available to non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" visa stamp.
- Unlimited booking changes are allowed before the scheduled departure. Post departure, you will have exactly one hour to change the booking once.
- Want to cancel your booking? You have the option to do so until the day before your actual booking date.
- Refunds are subject to a 10% deduction on the original purchase price.
- Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive an Exchange Order via mail within two weeks.
- When you arrive in Japan, simply trade your Exchange Order for a JR Pass at an official exchange office.
- You can activate your pass anytime within 3 months from the issue date. At the time of activation, you can also select your starting travel day within the next 30 days.
- Seat reservations aren't mandatory, but if you want one, it is easy to book one for free at the ticket office or using the reserved-seat ticket machines at stations.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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What our guests say
Ella
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Exchanging the voucher was simple. Staff were kind, trains spotless. Made exploring Japan’s countryside easy and relaxing.
Chris
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Wish there were more Hikari services on some routes, but we managed fine. Definitely book seats early for popular trains.
Ben
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Best investment we made for our trip. Fast trains, reliable service, and overall amazing experience. Definitely getting one again next time.
Kimie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very easy to order and received on time. Activation wa also easy. We were able to make use of it immediately at the airport
Olivia
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
If you plan to travel extensively across Japan, the JR Pass is totally worth it. Highly recommend checking your routes beforehand though.
Nina
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Honestly, it was a little confusing at first to figure out which trains we could take, but once we got the hang of it, it was awesome.
nicholas
May 2025Verified booking
It was easy to use and reliable in its delivery.
Megan
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Trains were always on time, sometimes down to the second! Japan's rail system is truly world-class.
Daniel
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Absolutely loved it! Easy, convenient, and reliable. Wouldn't imagine traveling around Japan any other way.
Rachel
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Having the JR Pass made it easy to be spontaneous with day trips. Would 100% buy again for future trips.
Ethan
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Quick delivery of the exchange voucher. Smooth activation process. Very happy with the whole experience.
Grace
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Buying individual tickets every time would have been a pain. This pass made everything simple and smooth.
David
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Very efficient! Ordering the pass online was simple, and pickup in Japan was even easier. No issues at all.
Russell
May 2025Verified booking
Ronan
May 2025Verified booking
Monica
May 2025Verified booking
James
Apr 2025Verified booking
Lutz
Apr 2025Verified booking
Barbara
Apr 2025Verified booking
Alex
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Charlene
Apr 2025Verified booking
Samantha
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Brandon
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Michael
Mar 2025Verified booking
Lisa
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
Explore Regional JR Passes
Explore different JR Regional Pass options, compare benefits, and book the perfect one for your trip!
Make the most of Tokyo
Millions love heading out with us
Wolfgang
MalaysiaApr, 2024
Booking online was straightforward and comfortable. Exchange at Kansai intl. Airport same - should say I have done this before. I had a great time with the JR West Wide Area Pass. Going to and around in Okayama, Kurashiki, Kobe and plenty of places inside Osaka. Only thing - I almost deleted your email titling »Your experience in Tokyo«. Maybe you should be a bit mire careful about these lines if you want more reviews? :)
5 Day JR Kansai Wide Area Pass
Shaine
United KingdomMar, 2024
The pass worked perfectly. Just find the vending machines that exchange the voucher to the pass in Kyoto station first and scan your passport or ask staff for assistance. It does not include Kyoto bus though. Thanks Headout!
JR Pass: Kansai with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Ben
Apr, 2025
Best investment we made for our trip. Fast trains, reliable service, and overall amazing experience. Definitely getting one again next time.
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
Ella
Apr, 2025
Exchanging the voucher was simple. Staff were kind, trains spotless. Made exploring Japan’s countryside easy and relaxing.
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
Olivia
Mar, 2025
If you plan to travel extensively across Japan, the JR Pass is totally worth it. Highly recommend checking your routes beforehand though.
JR Pass: Unlimited Travel Across the Whole of Japan
JR Pass | Your key to exploring Japan effortlessly
Planning your Japan adventure? The Japan Rail Pass is your key to unlocking the most cost and time-efficient way to get around the country's 4 islands. This convenient token is your ticket to Japan's renowned train system, buses, and even the country's iconic bullet train, the Shinkansen.
The JR Pass is available exclusively online, letting you secure your travel plans in advance for total peace of mind—no need to worry about last-minute purchases, as it’s not available at stations in Japan.
Zip between bustling cities or venture off the beaten path — the JR Pass is the perfect adventure partner. Choose between national or regional coverage, standard or Green Class seating, and durations of 7, 14, or 21 days to perfectly fit your travel style and budget.
Read on to discover the types of JR Train Passes, their benefits, and how to find the ideal one for your trip!
Why buy a JR Pass?
Save money & time
The JR Pass offers a budget-friendly way to explore Japan, especially for those planning multiple long-distance trips. With unlimited access across JR trains, including the Shinkansen, regional lines, and airport transfers, the JR Pass is designed to save you both time and money.
7-day JR Pass vs. Individual tickets
Compare estimated fares for popular train routes against the cost of a 7-Day JR Pass. By choosing unlimited rides for part of your trip, you could save up to ¥19,140. It’s a practical way to explore Japan’s bullet trains and beyond without juggling individual tickets.
Regular Class vs Green Class
Not sure if you should travel in first class (Green Class) or second class (Regular Class) carriages? Here’s a list of features and amenities that both classes offer. Pick one that best suits your travel needs.
Regular Class
- Unlimited travel all over Japan: ✅
- Free seat reservation: ✅
- Access to Shinkansen trains: ✅
- Separate first-class carriages: ❌
- Wider seats: ❌
- Extra luggage space: ❌
- More privacy: ❌
- Free amenities: There are no free amenities available in Regular Class
Green Class
- Unlimited travel all over Japan: ✅
- Free seat reservation: ✅
- Access to Shinkansen trains: ✅
- Separate first-class carriages: ✅
- Wider seats: ✅
- Extra luggage space: ✅
- More privacy: ✅
- Free amenities: Drinks, candy & Oshibori hand towels
Regional vs Whole of Japan
Regional Pass
If you have a set itinerary and plan to travel within a particular region in Japan, choose one of the Regional Passes, which offer affordable travel within areas like Hokkaido, Kansai, or Kyushu.
Whole of Japan Pass
Opt for the Whole of Japan JR Pass if you are a spontaneous traveler who wants to cover multiple regions and attractions across Japan. This pass provides unlimited travel on most JR lines nationwide, making it the ideal choice for a long trip.
How to book your JR Pass in 4 easy steps
Confused about booking your Japan Rail Pass? We’ve simplified it into four easy steps to help you plan:
Book your JR Pass online or on the Headout app
Purchase your JR Pass in advance (ideally within 1-2 weeks of your trip), ensuring you select the correct departure date for your trip, not the activation date.
Receive your Exchange Order
Your physical Exchange Order will be delivered to your doorstep within approximately 2 weeks of booking.
Redeem your JR Pass
On arrival in Japan, exchange your Order at any designated JR office within 90 days of its issue. These offices are located at major train stations and international airport terminals. Click here for a full list of exchange locations.
Activate and travel
When exchanging your Order, you’ll need to select an activation date, which can be any date within 30 days from the date of exchange. Present your passport for verification, and if you’ve opted for Green Class, you can reserve seats right away. Your JR Pass is now ready for use!
Important information for JR Pass travelers
Booking
Mail delivery and eligibilty
Validity
Useful links
To avoid any last-minute hassles, ensure you book your JR Pass at least 2 weeks in advance.
This allows enough time for the pass to be processed and delivered to you before you leave for Japan.
Mail delivery: The pass includes mail delivery to most countries, excluding Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
Eligibility: Only foreign tourists entering Japan on a temporary visitor visa are eligible for the JR Pass.
Exchange Orders are valid for 90 days. When you exchange your order, you must choose a starting (activation) date, which can be any date within the next 30 days.
Once activated, the pass is valid for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days, depending on the pass you purchased.
Frequently asked questions about the JR pass
What is a JR Pass?
The JR Pass is a convenient and cost-effective travel pass for tourists, granting unlimited access to JR-operated trains, including the Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho), express, and local trains, as well as certain JR buses. The pass is available in three durations: 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days.
Who is eligible for a JR Pass?
The JR Pass is available only to foreign tourists on a "Temporary Visitor" visa in Japan. Japanese residents and those on other visa types are not eligible.
What types of JR Passes are available?
JR Passes are offered in two categories: Nationwide and Regional. The Nationwide Pass provides unrestricted travel across Japan, while Regional Passes cater to specific areas, such as Kansai or Kyushu. Each pass can be purchased for a duration of 7, 14, or 21 days, with the option to upgrade to Green Class seating for additional comfort.
How much does a JR Pass cost?
Prices vary by duration and seating class. For example:
- 7-Day Pass: ¥54,998 for Ordinary Class
- 14-Day Pass: ¥88,000 for Ordinary Class
- 21-Day Pass: ¥110,002 for Ordinary Class
How do I purchase a JR Pass?
The easiest way to purchase a JR Pass is online. After booking, an Exchange Order is delivered to your address. Be sure to order at least 2 weeks before your trip to allow for delivery.
How is the JR Pass delivered, and when will it arrive?
Your Exchange Order will arrive via mail in approximately 2 weeks. Upon arrival in Japan, you can exchange it for a JR Pass at an official JR office and activate it within 3 months of issuance.
How do I activate my JR Pass?
To activate your pass, bring the Exchange Order and your passport to a JR exchange office upon arrival in Japan. You’ll choose a start date at that time, which must be within 30 days of exchange. Activation enables unlimited travel for the selected duration (7, 14, or 21 days).
How long is the JR Pass valid?
The Exchange Order is valid for 90 days after purchase. Once activated in Japan, the pass is valid for the consecutive days selected at purchase—7, 14, or 21 days.
Does it matter when I start using my JR Pass?
Yes, the pass must be activated within 30 days of exchange. Once activated, it remains valid for consecutive days (7, 14, or 21) based on the pass duration you selected.
Do I need to reserve seats with a JR Pass?
Seat reservations aren’t mandatory for regular seating, but they’re recommended during peak seasons and for long-distance journeys. Green Class pass holders can reserve seats at JR ticket offices, Midori-no-madoguchi (JR service centers), or designated ticket machines.
Can I use the JR Pass on all Shinkansen trains?
The JR Pass covers most Shinkansen trains, except for Nozomi and Mizuho lines. Additionally, it covers airport transfers on the Narita Express and Haruka Express.
Does the JR Pass cover the Metro/Subway systems?
The JR Pass does not cover Metro or Subway systems operated by non-JR companies. It includes JR-operated trains, such as the Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho), and certain JR-affiliated buses and ferry services. For city transit, a separate local transportation pass may be more suitable.
Can I use the JR Pass on buses?
Yes, the JR Pass covers certain JR-operated buses, including local routes. However, JR Bus Express routes are not included.
What happens if I lose my JR Pass?
Lost or stolen JR Passes cannot be replaced or refunded, so handle your pass carefully.
Can I cancel or change my JR Pass?
JR Passes are non-refundable and cannot be modified once purchased. However, you may activate them at any point within 90 days after purchase, providing flexibility for travel plans.
Are there discounts available for youth or seniors?
Yes, there are special rates for children on the JR Pass, allowing additional savings.