Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Japan's railways are famously punctual, clean and extensive. Most long-distance travel is on the Shinkansen (bullet train) network operated by several Japan Railways (JR) companies, while cities also have private railways and subways.
The nationwide Japan Rail Pass
The Japan Rail Pass gives unlimited travel on most JR trains nationwide for 7, 14 or 21 consecutive days, in Ordinary or Green (first) class. It's available to visitors entering Japan on "Temporary Visitor" status.
In October 2023 the pass price rose substantially (the 7-day Ordinary pass went to roughly ¥50,000). Because of that, the pass now mainly pays off for itineraries with several long Shinkansen journeys in a short period — for example Tokyo → Kyoto → Hiroshima → Tokyo within a week. Check the current price on the official Japan Rail Pass website.
What the pass covers (and doesn't)
- Covered: Most JR Shinkansen (Hikari, Kodama, Sakura and others), JR limited express and local trains, some JR buses and the JR Miyajima ferry.
- Nozomi and Mizuho: The fastest Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu trains can be used by paying a separate supplementary ticket — check current rules.
- Not covered: Private railways (e.g. Odakyu, Kintetsu, Hankyu, Tobu, Keisei), subways and most non-JR buses.
How to buy and activate
Buy online from the official site or authorised sellers. You activate the pass on the day you want it to start, at a JR ticket office or certain reserved-seat ticket machines, showing your passport. Seat reservations can be made for free with the pass at machines, ticket offices or online.
Regional passes: often better value
JR companies sell regional passes covering just one area, often at a fraction of the national pass price — for example passes for Kansai, Kansai–Hiroshima, JR East areas (Tohoku, Nagano/Niigata), Hokuriku, Kyushu and Hokkaido. If your trip focuses on one region, compare these first.
Buying individual Shinkansen tickets
You can buy tickets at station machines (with English menus), ticket offices, or online. JR Central's smartEX app lets you book Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu Shinkansen seats with a credit card and board with an IC card or QR code. JR East and JR West have their own online booking services for their lines.
Reserved vs non-reserved seats
Most Shinkansen have both reserved and non-reserved cars. Reserved seats are recommended at weekends and during holidays. Note that some lines (e.g. Tohoku/Hokkaido Hayabusa) are all-reserved.
Oversized luggage on the Tokaido Shinkansen
On the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen, luggage with total dimensions over 160 cm requires a reservation for a seat with an oversized baggage area. Bringing such luggage without a reservation incurs a fee. Large suitcases often qualify — check your bag's measurements.
Etiquette on trains
- Queue at the marked boarding positions on the platform.
- Keep phone calls off trains; set phones to silent ("manner mode").
- Eating is fine on Shinkansen and long-distance trains (ekiben boxed lunches are a highlight) but avoid it on crowded commuter trains.
Frequently asked questions
Is the JR Pass worth it?
It depends on your route. After the October 2023 price increase, a nationwide pass usually pays off only if you make several long Shinkansen trips within its validity. Add up individual fares for your route and compare.
Can I ride the Nozomi with a JR Pass?
Since October 2023, JR Pass holders can ride Nozomi and Mizuho trains by purchasing a separate supplementary ticket. Check the official Japan Rail Pass site for current rules.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: