Japan is known for its most advanced and reliable railway system. This is why many locals and travelers alike prefer to take trains instead of private cars. And, if you plan on exploring multiple cities in Japan as a tourist, a Japan Rail Pass or “JR Pass” might just be your golden ticket to make your trip more convenient and budget-friendly. In this post, we round up what you should show about the JR Pass:
What is the JR Pass?
The JR Pass is your all-access pass to explore multiple cities in Japan via high-speed trains. It’s available to foreign visitors with a 14-day or 90-day tourist visa. So if you’re a tourist in Japan and planning to stay a bit longer, getting a JR Pass will make your trips hassle-free in many ways:
Unlimited access to JR trains, Shinkansen, buses, and more!
Contrary to what most people know, a JR pass is not only used in Japan Rail national trains. You can use this pass to get unlimited access to the bullet train or Shinkansen, main local trains, bus services, ferry, and even airport transfers.
One ticket to cover all your destinations for less
With a JR Pass, you don’t need to line up for tickets at every stop. You only need this one JR Pass to explore around Japan. It’s also the biggest discount you can ever have in public transportation, giving you more bang for your buck.
Free seat reservation
You can choose your desired seat on the train with a JR Pass. This gives you the freedom to pick a seat with the best view and access too.
Where can you buy a JR Pass?
You can get a JR Pass online via:
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- Japan Rail Pass official website
- Sales office or travel agency platforms like KKDay
- Japan Airports
- JR Travel Service Center or Ticket Offices in Japan
Who is eligible for a JR Pass?
But before ordering, make sure you’re eligible to get a JR Pass. Currently, the JR Pass is only available to foreigners on a tourist visa (“temporary visitor”) for 90 days. You are NOT eligible for a JR Pass if you:
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- are a Japanese national
- A holder of a long-term visa of more than 90 days
- a holder of a Student visa
- a holder of a Special/Permanent residency visa
- a holder of an Entertainer visa
- a holder of a Working holiday visa
- have military entry as the purpose of your visit
- have any other visa aside from a temporary visitor visa
How to Buy a JR Pass Online
It’s highly recommended that you purchase your JR Pass online, to avoid the hassle of lining up at ticket counters when you land in Japan. It’s pretty easy to order a JR Rail Pass– just follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Book your JR Pass on your chosen platform. Enter your contact details and passport number.
***Tip: Booking on KKDay gets you KKDay points and cashback.
Step 2: Select the JR Pass that suits your itinerary. You can get a 7-Day JR Pass, a 14-Day JR Pass, or a 21-Day JR Pass. You can purchase up to 6 people traveling with you.
Step 3: Pay for the JR Passes via credit card. You can also reserve your seat if you’re traveling via Shinkansen or limited express trains.
Step 4: Receive your Mail Exchange Order (MCO) via mail delivery or an eMCO ticket via email. Mail delivery usually takes up to two weeks to arrive after purchase.
Step 5: Upon arriving in Japan, pick up your JR Pass at the designated counter. Present your passport and the Exchange Order.
***Note: Your JR Pass is valid for 90 days from your booking date so plan your trip accordingly!
How much is the JR Pass?*
There are several kinds of JR Pass, depending on your travel duration, age, and preference. JR Pass price for adults 12 years old and above, is different from children aged 6 to 11. Children under 6 can ride free of charge. Here’s the JR Pass Price if you buy outside Japan.
| 7-Day JR Pass | 14-Day JR Pass | 21-Day JR Pass | |
| Ordinary | JPY 50,000 | JPY 80,000 | JPY 100,000 |
| Green Class | JPY 70,000 | JPY 110,000 | JPY 140,000 |
***Prices stated are JR Pass rates after the 1 October 2023 price hike. Meanwhile, 50% OFF applies to the tickets of children ages 6-11 years.
What is a Green Class JR Pass?
A Green Class JR Pass is essentially the premium version of the JR Pass. It has the basic features but with a few more:
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- First-class carriages
- Comfortable and wider seats
- Wider windows
- More space for luggage
- More privacy
- Free hand towels
Do you really need a JR Pass?
Getting a JR Pass is only optional– of course, you can still opt to buy tickets at the stations where you’re supposed to go. We’ve mentioned the features of a JR Pass, but it’ll only be worth it depending on your itinerary.
Pros of Getting a JR Pass:
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- Unlimited travel access with just one pass
- JR Pass is cost-efficient
- Perfect for those traveling in different cities daily
Cons of Getting a JR Pass:
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- You need to use your JR Pass on consecutive dates
- Not available for some trains e.g. private railways or metros, and the Nozomi and Mizuho class commuter bullet trains
- If you’re not planning to use trains much, it may not be worth it
Using the JR Pass Calculator
Another feature that JR Pass has is its own JR Fare Calculator. Use this free calculator to see how much your trip will cost, and how much you can save if you use a JR Pass. To use the JR Pass Calculator, simply visit the website, and input the stations to see the estimated cost and total distance.
How do you choose the right JR Pass for you?
There are various types of JR Passes available to you if you’re visiting Japan, and it can be quite overwhelming to choose which one would be the right one for you! To help you decide, we created this nifty guide for you!
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