Planning for your next trip to Japan? Chances are, you’ll be purchasing the quintessential JR Pass. But before you make that purchase, learn all about what it offers — and whether it’s the right fit for you.
Feeling FOMO after viewing all the cherry blossom content on TikTok and Instagram recently? Well, the good news is that Japan isn’t a one-trick pony — it’s one of the best places to consider for year-round travel! And one of the best ways to explore all that Japan has to offer is often through public transportation. Its comprehensive network allows you to wander, explore the different wards and amble along the various laneways, which often house some of the best and uniquely local experiences. This is also where the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) comes in handy. It’s one of the best tried-and-tested ways to unlock the wonders of Japan.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time Japan visitor, we’ve put together a comprehensive and nifty little guide on all you need to know about the JR Pass. Read on below ⬇️
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🚆 What Is The JR Pass, And How Does It Work? 🚆
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Often touted as a travel essential by tourists from all walks of life, the JR Pass is a popular ticket option for cost-effective travel across Japan. The pass is exclusively available for foreign tourists visiting the country and grants unlimited travel on most of Japan’s extensive rail network.
Like many other countries that rely on public transport, the concept of the JR Pass is pretty straightforward. Take your pick from a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day pass, plan your routes according to the JR pass-covered train lines, hop on and off according to your itinerary, and you’re all set!
Besides the sheer convenience it offers, the JR Pass covers almost the entirety of Japan — allowing you to travel within and across six regions with ease.
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🚆 Types of JR Passes 🚆
Image Credits: Japan Rail Pass
As mentioned earlier, the JR Pass covers six regions across Japan, from Kyushu all the way up to Hokkaido, making it the perfect companion if you’re planning a long trip across the country, or visiting more than one city. Within each region you visit, the JR Pass can be used for almost all the trains operated by Japan Railways, including the Shinkansen!
And of course, to help you better understand the different types of JR Passes, here’s a quick breakdown:
Ordinary Pass | Green Pass |
✅ Ideal for most travellers ✅ Provides access to the standard JR trains including the Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains. | ✅ If you have that ~adult money~, then the Green Pass would be a great option. ✅ Spacious, comfortable, and often less crowded, this option is an upgrade from the Ordinary Pass. ❗ Do note that many travellers will find the size and leg space provided in the standard trains sufficient, so this option is only if you’d like to ride in the lap of luxury. |
While considering the type of Pass you’d like to purchase, it’s also important to consider whether you’d like to purchase the Whole of Japan pass, or the Regional Passes, which are tailored to specific areas of Japan — a lot more worthwhile if you’re planning to cover a particular region in depth.
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🚆 What Is The JR Pass Valid On? 🚆
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While the JR Pass has coverage across the whole country, there are still limitations on what it is valid on:
1. JR Trains: This is definitely a no-brainer. This pass is valid on almost all the trains operated by JR, including the Shinkansen, limited express, rapid, and local trains. But of course, it pays to err on the side of caution. Make sure you check if your ticket is valid as you’re planning your itinerary!
2. Tokyo Monorail: Do note that this applies for rides to and from the Haneda Airport.
3. Local JR buses: For the most updated and comprehensive map, check out this link.
4. JR Ferry to Miyajima: In case you were wondering, this is the small island in Hiroshima Bay famed for its floating Great Torii Gate. Do note that you will still have to pay a ¥100 (~S$0.88) visitor tax!
5. Some non-JR trains to access isolated JR lines: For a more comprehensive look at what this covers, visit this link.
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🚆 How Much Does It Cost? 🚆
With the recent price adjustments, here’s how much you’d have to fork out:
Type | Ordinary Car | Green Car |
7 consecutive days | ¥50,000 (~S$439.90) | ¥70,000 (~S$615.90) |
14 consecutive days | ¥80,000 (~S$703.84) | ¥110,000 (~S$967.80) |
21 consecutive days | ¥100,000 (~S$879.80) | ¥140,000 (~S$1231.70) |
*Note: Children between the ages of 6-11 are eligible for reduced rates (50% off)!
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🚆 So… Is It Still Worth It After The JR Pass Price Increase? 🚆
While we took the liberty to explore this in great detail right here, we’ll do a quick recap of our thoughts below:
Those on Team JR Pass would argue that it is still one of the most convenient ways to travel, as it helps you save time navigating the hectic train stations just to purchase tickets. And despite the substantial JR Pass price increase, it’s perfect for long-distance travel because let’s be real — domestic air travel isn’t going to be that pocket-friendly, either!
But those on Team Boycott JR Pass would say that buses are a cheaper alternative, and would offer a lot more flexibility. Plus, trying to maximise your JR Pass can be quite tricky, as it involves a lot of planning and coordination. Plus, in some cities like Osaka and Kyoto, JR services are quite limited, which means you’d still have to pay extra for local subway, bus, and non-JR train rides.
All things considered, our verdict (spoiler alert!) is that the Whole Japan Rail Pass is good for long trips and cross-country travelling. Otherwise, the costs simply do not add up — and you’d be better off paying as you go, or opting for the Regional rail passes!
JR Pass 101: Everything You Need To Know About The Japan Rail Pass — Click here for a more in-depth explanation of whether the JR Pass is still worth it after the price increase
🚆 How To Purchase The Tickets? 🚆
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The most straightforward way of purchasing your tickets would be through the official website. The advantage of purchasing the pass through the main page is that you can immediately make your seat reservations online, and you’ll only need your passport to pick up the pass in Japan.
If not, another popular alternative would be to purchase your tickets through online agents like Klook, with plenty of presets and options for you to choose from. Simply head over to this link for the Whole Japan Rail Pass, and this link for your Regional Passes. Just a note that you’ll need to exchange your voucher for the actual pass inside Japan within three months of purchase.
💡 Tip: If you haven’t already, make sure you check out our YouTrip Perks to claim up to 5% cashback on your purchase. Did we mention that there are plenty of other travel-related merchants for you to pick from too? Browse away!
JR Pass 101: Everything You Need To Know About The Japan Rail Pass — Visit the official website here
🚆 Tips, Tricks, and Frequently-Asked Questions 🚆
While we’ve covered most of what you need to know, here are some other considerations to help maximise your JR Pass experience!
1. When Should I Buy My JR Pass?
It depends. If you’re purchasing it from the likes of Klook or other online agents, then we recommend booking your JR Pass at least 2 weeks before your trip, as you’ll have to cater for time to receive your voucher via mail. It also shouldn’t be more than 3 months in advance, as it would be past the validity period of your exchange order.
But if you’re purchasing it via the official page, you would definitely have more wiggle room to play with!
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2. How Long Is My JR Pass Valid For?
Your pass follows calendar days (i.e. midnight to midnight) instead of 24-hour blocks, so it doesn’t matter what time you start using it. For example, if you start using your pass at 7 PM on Day 1, it will expire at midnight on Day 7, instead of 7 PM on Day 8. So plan wisely!
And in case you’re wondering what happens if you’re on the train past midnight of your ticket expiry… don’t worry! Your JR Pass will remain valid until the end of your journey. But, if you’re transferring to a Shinkansen, limited express, or express train past midnight, then extra charges would apply.
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3. How Do I Use My Pass When I’m In Japan?
In the past, you’d have to go through a manned gate and present your pass to the staff present. But thankfully, automation is the way these days! Now, you simply just tap at the gates and you’re in.
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4. Do I Need To Reserve My Seats?
It’s not mandatory, but it’s good to plan ahead of time, especially if you’re travelling long distance. Plus, if you’re travelling in a group it helps to reserve your seats so that you can sit together.
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Congrats, You’re Now A JR Pass Expert!
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If you made it to the end of this article, then you would be equipped with most of the information you need to make an informed choice about all things JR Pass-related.
The next time? Putting theory to practise, of course! As you plan and book your next Japan trip, do ensure that you check out all our handy-dandy guides for the latest information — from the most interesting flower festivals and theme parks in the region to must-buy items at Don Quijote!
Then, enjoy those wholesale exchange rates when you purchase your tickets and everything in between with your YouTrip Card! You’ll also be pleased to know that when renting cars, booking hotels and other adventures for your Japan adventure, enjoy greater peace of mind and attractive discounts with our partners like Klook, Booking.com, Agoda, and the like. We are, after all, in the business of helping you lock in greater savings at every step of the way 😉
As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
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