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Book Japan Rail Pass
Travel throughout Japan with unlimited JR train access, bus and ferry rides, and exclusive savings.
- Travel around Japan like a pro with the JR Pass, your ticket to easy, pocket-friendly travel. Say hello to adventure and goodbye to budget worries.
- Gain unlimited access to train rides and buses on JR lines and tour seamlessly on Shinkansen trains and airport transfers on the Narita and Haruka Express.
- 1st class offers calm vibes, roomy seats, and luggage space, while 2nd class hums with lively energy; choose a 7, 14, or 21-day pass for your adventure.
- Enjoy convenient door-delivery of your pass everywhere in the world. It'll reach you well before you travel to Japan.
Travel throughout Japan with unlimited JR train access, bus and ferry rides, and exclusive savings.
- Travel around Japan like a pro with the JR Pass, your ticket to easy, pocket-friendly travel. Say hello to adventure and goodbye to budget worries.
- Gain unlimited access to train rides and buses on JR lines and tour seamlessly on Shinkansen trains and airport transfers on the Narita and Haruka Express.
- 1st class offers calm vibes, roomy seats, and luggage space, while 2nd class hums with lively energy; choose a 7, 14, or 21-day pass for your adventure.
- Enjoy convenient door-delivery of your pass everywhere in the world. It'll reach you well before you travel to Japan.
Inclusions
- Validity: 4/7/21 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)
- Discounts across Japan on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youth and seniors
- Get full rail network details and route maps here
Exclusions
- Access to Nozomi and Mizuho trains
- Access to JR Bus Express bus routes
- After the booking confirmation, you’ll receive an Exchange Order via mail in just 2 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 of the issue date. Also, during the activation time, you can choose your starting day anytime within 30 days – think flexible and the JR Pass is your answer.
- Seat reservations aren't mandatory, but if you want one, you can easily book a seat for free at the ticket office or reserved-seat ticket machines at the station.
- Make sure to book your JR Pass before heading to Japan. It's best to do it at least 2 weeks in advance to give enough time for your Exchange Order to arrive.
- The pass is available only for non-Japanese passport holders with a "Temporary Visitor" visa stamp.
- Most Shinkansen and limited express trains offer wheelchair-accessible seats. To use these seats, reserve them 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.
- These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
- These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
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What our guests say
Lassue
Aug 2024Verified booking
It's easy to get on a train without a reservation. Free ferry to miyajima, free access to some buses and subways.
View original review in French
Carlos
May 2024Verified booking
Convenience of it! It is relatively expensive if not fully used all days - would be nice to have the option of non-consecutive day packages and ability to combine with other metro/subway companies in Tokyo
Misako
May 2024Verified booking
Arrived at Shinkansen ticket station. After presenting passports, took about 5 minutes to complete transaction. Thanks for super service in delivery of our prepaid ticket vouchers.
UMA
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was amazing!! I loved the overall experience
keiko
Apr 2024Verified booking
It was easy and fast process for traveling different places.
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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.
Save big with JR Pass
Planning a comprehensive 10-day trip across Japan? The JR Pass offers significant savings for travelers covering multiple destinations.
The JR Pass is particularly cost-efficient for travelers planning to ride Shinkansen trains. With the pass, you can take advantage of unlimited travel for long-distance journeys and day trips, making it a convenient and economical way to explore Japan's iconic destinations.
Inclusions with the JR Pass
The JR Pass provides extensive coverage across the JR network, allowing for unlimited travel throughout Japan on JR-operated services. Here’s what the pass includes:
- Express, fast, and local trains: Access to most JR-operated Shinkansen services, though it excludes Nozomi and Mizuho trains. Use the Shinkansen map to see available routes for JR Pass holders. Read more about Shinkansen here.
- Tokyo Monorail & Yamanote Line: Ideal for navigating within Tokyo on JR-operated lines.
- Airport transfers: Covers the Narita Express and Kansai Airport Express for convenient airport connections.
- Local JR Buses: Available in major cities; however, highway buses and certain long-distance JR buses are not covered.
- JR-West Miyajima ferry services: Grants access to Miyajima Island.
- Exclusive discounts: Enjoy special offers on selected JR-affiliated services. You can get more information here.
For a full view of the JR network, refer to the JR network map here. Keep in mind that while the JR Pass covers most JR-operated routes, separate tickets are required for non-JR-operated metro, subway, and private rail services.
Which JR Pass should you go for?
The JR Pass unlocks seamless travel across Japan, but to choose the right one, it’s crucial to understand what’s included. Whether you're zipping across regions on the Shinkansen or hopping on local buses, your JR Pass has you covered in many ways.
Now, let's dive into how to choose the right JR Pass for your trip.
Travel duration
- If you're in Japan for a week and looking for budget and time-friendly options, choose the 7-Day JR Pass.
- If your itinerary is a bit extensive and your stay is stretching to anything around 2 weeks, the 14-day pass is your ticket to efficient exploration.
- Staying in Japan for 3 or so weeks? The 21-day Japan Rail Pass allows you to get the most out of the country's every corner.
Regional vs Whole of Japan
- Go for the Whole of Japan JR Pass if you plan to travel extensively across Japan, covering multiple regions. This pass provides unlimited travel on most JR lines nationwide.
- If you have a clear itinerary and plan to stay within a particular area, choose Regional Passes offering cost-effective travel within areas like Hokkaido, Kansai, or Kyushu.
Regular seating vs Green Class
- If you're looking for an economical option and don't mind occasional busy periods, regular seating in the standard class is a convenient option.
- If you prioritize comfort and exclusivity, go for the JR Green Pass and get first-class carriages with spacious reclinable seating. You also get additional space for luggage, fewer crowds, and complimentary amenities.
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!
Seat Reservations
As a JR Pass holder, you are entitled to reserve seats on JR trains free of charge. Reservations must be made before boarding, and once on the train, you cannot switch to a reserved seat without prior booking. Follow these simple steps to book your seat:
- Where to book: Bring your activated JR Pass to any JR Ticket Office, Travel Service Center, or ticketing machine at train stations. Staff can assist you with schedules and available options.
- Reservation details: You’ll receive a reserved seat ticket, which includes your departure time, arrival time, train name, car number, and seat number.
- Additional fees: Private compartments, sleeping cars, and Limited Express trains require an extra fee.
When to reserve
Seats are recommended to be reserved during Japan’s peak travel periods (April 27–May 6, August 11–20, December 28–January 6), as trains tend to fill up quickly. Green Pass holders should also book in advance to ensure seating in Green Class.
Online Reservations
For select routes, reservations can be made online through JR East’s Ekinet service for Shinkansen and certain limited express trains in the JR East and JR Hokkaido areas.
Important information for JR Pass travelers
Booking
Mail delivery and eligibilty
Validity
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.