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Book Japan Rail Pass

4.6(505 Ratings)
Flexible travel on multiple routes
Flexible travel on multiple routes
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Effortless planning
Effortless planning



JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats
A Japanese bullet train stationary on a platform
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in Japan
Asian woman looking out the window
Tokyo skyline with Shinkansen train, highlighting JR Pass for Whole Japan: Global Mail Delivery.
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in motion.
Tokyo train station with travelers using JR Pass for Whole Japan, highlighting global mail delivery option.
View of the Miyajima Ferry in Japan
Public buses in Osaka
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats
A Japanese bullet train stationary on a platform
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in Japan
Asian woman looking out the window
Tokyo skyline with Shinkansen train, highlighting JR Pass for Whole Japan: Global Mail Delivery.
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in motion.
Tokyo train station with travelers using JR Pass for Whole Japan, highlighting global mail delivery option.
View of the Miyajima Ferry in Japan
Public buses in Osaka
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats
A Japanese bullet train stationary on a platform
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in Japan
Asian woman looking out the window
Tokyo skyline with Shinkansen train, highlighting JR Pass for Whole Japan: Global Mail Delivery.
JR Pass for Whole Japan with scenic view of Mount Fuji and Shinkansen train in motion.
Tokyo train station with travelers using JR Pass for Whole Japan, highlighting global mail delivery option.
View of the Miyajima Ferry in Japan
Public buses in Osaka
4.6(505)

JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats

from
¥121,006
Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Transfers included
  • 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.
  • Sit comfortably: there's plenty of legroom in the Green class coaches and choose between 7, 14, and 21-day passes depending on your itinerary.
  • Enjoy convenient door-delivery of your pass everywhere in the world. It'll reach you well before you travel to Japan.
  • 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.
  • Sit comfortably: there's plenty of legroom in the Green class coaches and choose between 7, 14, and 21-day passes depending on your itinerary.
  • 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
  • Green (first) class seats
  • 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

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.

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. 

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!

Navigate your JR Pass guide

  1. Why buy a JR Pass?
  2. Booking guide: Which JR Pass should you go for?
  3. The ultimate 4-step guide to booking your JR Pass
  4. Find your best JR Pass match here
  5. Beyond the big cities: Your JR Regional Pass
  6. Frequently asked questions about the JR pass

Booking guide: Which JR Pass should you go for?

Choosing the right JR Pass can be daunting with all the different options available. But don't worry! We've got you covered. Before you dive in, consider these 4 key points to help you find the perfect fit for your travel style, itinerary, and budget.

The JR train pass may not be for you if:

  • You're staying in one city and making minimal long-distance journeys.
  • Your trip is shorter than 7 days, consider regular point-to-point tickets. Consider local transportation passes or single tickets for city-specific exploration.
  • You want to ride the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen express bullet trains. These require separate tickets and are not covered by JR Passes.

The ultimate 4-step guide to booking your JR Pass

Confused about booking your Japan Rail Pass? Worry no more! Our easy 4-step guide shows you the way. 

A person making a JR pass online purchase

Book your JR Pass online, and in advance. It’s convenient and hassle-free. Enter your planned travel date (departure date), and not the activation date.

JR Pass booking

You'll receive your physical Exchange Order at your doorstep.

Jr pass exchnage

Trade your Exchange Order within 90 days for a physical JR Pass at a designated JR office when you arrive in Japan (available at most major train stations and international terminals at airports).

Woman Activating Her JR Pass

Fill in the activation form and present your passport for verification at the exchange office. If you’ve opted for Green Class, once you’ve activated your pass, you can reserve your seats only. Your JR pass is now active and you can start exploring!

Important:

  • Regional passes are available as e-tickets. Present the QR code at the JR exchange office to redeem your pass.
  • Book at least 2 weeks before your trip, that is, before you depart for Japan. 
  • This pass includes mail delivery to most countries except Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
  • Exchange Orders are valid for 90 days, and activated passes are valid for 30 days afterward.
  • You can use your pass for 3,4,5, 7, 14, or 21 days within those 30 days.

Find your best JR Pass match here

JR Pass Name
Regions Covered
Trains Included
Validity & Duration
Green Pass Available
Shinkansen
Starting Price
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Ordinary Seats
All of Japan
JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, BRT and Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, & Ainokaze Toyama Railway. Local JR buses & JR West Miyajima Ferry.
Clock icon
7/14/21 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR Pass: Whole Japan Access with Green Class Seats
All of Japan
JR Shinkansen, Limited Express, Express, Rapid, local trains, BRT and Tokyo Monorail, Aomori Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway, & Ainokaze Toyama Railway. Local JR buses & JR West Miyajima Ferry.
Clock icon
7/14/21 days within 30 days of activation.
Yes
Yes
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, & Bepu
Kyushu (Hakata to Miyazaki Airport stations) area trains. (incl. Shimonoseki)
Clock Icon
3/5/7 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR East Pass: Nagano & Niigata or Tohuko
Nagano, Niigata or Tohoku
Operating trains in the Nagano, Niigata or Tohoku areas.
Clock Icon
5 days within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes
JR West Kansai Area Rail Pass
Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu
Trains in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu including Express Haruka train, Special Rapid Services train, Rapid Services train, & local trains on JR-West Conventional Lines. Plus, Kyoto JR buses.
Clock icon
1/2/3 days within 30 days of activation.
No
No
JR Pass: Kansai with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Wakayama & Otsu, with Hiroshima or Hokuriku
Hokuriku Shinkansen, Sanyo Shinkansen, Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kuonotori, Super Hakuto Express Trains, JR West special rapid services & local trains, Kyoto Tango Railway, Wakayama Electric Railway, & the Sanin Line. West JR & Chugoken JR buses, & JR West Miyajima ferry.
Clock icon
4/7 days (Hokuriku) & 5 days (Hiroshima) within 30 days of activation.
No
Yes (Sanyo Shinkansen/Hokuriku Shinkansen)
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, Asahikawa, and Wakkanai
JR Hokkaido trains in the Sapporo-Noboribetsu, & Sapporo-Furano areas.
Clock Icon
4/5 days within 30 days of activation.
No
No

Beyond the big cities: Your JR Regional Pass

Say hi to local treasures beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with JR Regional Passes. These affordable passes unlock specific regions, letting you tailor your adventure to your interests, budget, and location. Hike the Japanese Alps, see gassho-style farmhouses or soak in natural hot springs, there's a JR Pass for every region.

People Skiing
City view with Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan
Mountain Fuji with Asian woman wearing japanese traditional kimono
Aerial view of Peace Memorial and Hiroshima city
Dogo Onsen at twilight
Caldera of Mount Aso in Japan

Frequently asked questions about the JR pass

What is a JR Pass?

The JR Pass is a discounted travel pass specifically designed for tourists visiting Japan. It grants you unlimited rides on most Japan Rail (JR) trains, including express and limited express trains, for a chosen period of 7, 14, or 21 days. You can also use it on some JR buses and the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains (except Nozomi and Mizuho).

Who is eligible for a JR Pass?

JR Passes are only available to temporary visitors to Japan holding a valid tourist visa. Residents of Japan and those entering the country under special visas are not eligible.

What are the different types of JR Passes?

JR Passes cater to diverse travel styles and plans by offering various options. Nationwide JR Passes grant you the freedom to explore all of Japan's main islands while Regional JR Passes are a cost-effective alternative if you have a clear itinerary focused on a specific area like Hokkaido, Kansai, or Kyushu. JR Passes also come in three durations: 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. Selecting the right duration ensures you can maximize the benefits of the pass within your planned travel period. For budget-conscious travelers who don't mind occasional busy periods, Regular Seating is the way to go. Otherwise, upgrade to a JR Green Class for wider, reclining seats with more legroom, along with additional amenities.

How much does a JR Pass cost?

JR train pass prices vary depending on the type of pass you choose (Nationwide vs. Regional, duration, Green Class vs. Regular). The starting price for a standard 7-day Nationwide JR Pass is ¥50,000, while Regional Passes can start as low as ¥2,800.

How do I purchase a JR Pass?

The most convenient way to purchase a JR Pass is online. You can book your pass in advance, specifying your planned travel date (departure date) and not the activation date. You’ll then receive your Exchange Order (not your ticket) at your doorstep. Once in Japan, you can trade your Order for the JR Pass.

How do I activate my JR Pass?

You'll receive an exchange order after purchasing your pass online. Upon arrival in Japan, exchange this order for a physical JR Pass at a designated JR office, usually located at major train stations and international airport terminals. Remember to fill out the activation form and present your passport for verification during this exchange.

How long is a JR Pass valid for?

While the exchange order is valid for 90 days after purchase, the activated JR Pass itself is only valid for 30 days. However, within those 30 days, you can enjoy unlimited rides for your chosen duration (7, 14, or 21 days).

Is the JR Pass worth it?

JR Passes can be cost-effective compared to purchasing individual tickets, especially for frequent travel and long distances. They offer convenience, flexibility, and access to various transportation options within the JR network. However, if you're staying in one city and making minimal train journeys, a JR Pass might not be the most economical option.

What is the difference between the regular JR Pass and the JR Green Pass?

The main difference lies in seat comfort and amenities. Regular seating offers standard comfortable seats, while Green Class provides wider, reclining seats with more legroom and additional amenities like complimentary drinks and towels. Green Class also comes with fewer crowds, making for a more relaxing travel experience.

Do I need to reserve seats with a JR Pass?

Reservations are not mandatory for regular seating on most JR trains, and you can usually find a seat even during peak times. However, they are recommended for longer journeys, peak seasons (Golden Week, Obon), or if traveling in a group. Reservations can be made for free at JR ticket offices. If you're a JR Green Pass holder, you can also reserve your seats online.

Can I use the JR Pass on local trains and subways?

While your JR Pass covers most Japan Rail trains, including express trains and the Shinkansen (excluding Nozomi and Mizuho lines), it is not valid on local trains operated by non-JR companies or subways within cities.

What trains are not covered by the JR Pass?

The JR Pass does not cover Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen, express bullet trains requiring separate tickets. Additionally, local trains operated by non-JR companies and subways within cities are not included.

Can I use the JR Pass on buses?

While some JR-affiliated buses are included in the JR Pass coverage, it primarily covers JR trains. It's advisable to check the specific inclusions of your chosen pass or inquire at a JR ticket office for confirmation.

What happens if I lose my JR Pass?

Unfortunately, lost or stolen JR Passes cannot be replaced or refunded.

Can I cancel or change my JR Pass?

No, JR Passes cannot be canceled or changed after purchase. This means you cannot modify your chosen travel dates or receive a refund if you decide not to use the pass. However, you can activate them any time within the next 3 months to use for your designated chosen period (7,14, or 21 days).