
The JR Group announced on April 14, 2023, that the prices for the Japan Rail Pass will be significantly increased in the coming months, likely to take effect in October 2023, although an exact date has yet to be confirmed.
Main image: PIXTA
What is the JR Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a special rail pass available for foreign tourists visiting Japan. It offers unlimited travel on certain Japan Railways (JR) trains, buses, and ferries for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days.
The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective way for visitors to explore the country, as it can save a significant amount of money compared to purchasing individual tickets for each journey. It is important to note that the pass must be purchased outside of Japan before arrival and is only available to temporary visitors with a tourist visa.
How the JR Pass prices and services are changing

With the current JR Pass, holders are not able to ride certain trains, including the Nozomi or Mizuho Shinkansen.
According to the JR announcement, while the new prices will not cover the Nozomi or Mizuho Shinkansen, JR Pass holders will however be able to ride these trains for an additional fee. Details and prices have yet to be announced.
What does the JR Pass price change mean for my trip?

Indeed, with the price hike, the value of the Japan Rail Pass will depend more on individual itineraries and travel plans. It is important for travelers to assess their needs and compare the cost of the JR Pass with the sum of individual train tickets.
For instance, a popular tourist itinerary called the "Golden Route" includes Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Many visitors extend their trip to Hiroshima. Priced individually, this trip would become:
・Tokyo Station → Kyoto Station: 14,170 yen
・Kyoto Station → Osaka Station: 570 yen
・Osaka Station → Hiroshima Station: 10,630 yen
・Hiroshima Station → Tokyo Station: 18,910 yen
・Total: 44,280 yen
Under the current prices, the JR Pass nearly pays off with a single round trip between Tokyo and Kyoto (28,340 yen).
After the price hike, travelers should more carefully calculate their trip costs and compare them with the new JR Pass prices.
Generally, for travelers with an intensive itinerary, the new JR Pass prices might still be a cost-effective option. It is essential to carefully plan your trip and weigh the benefits and costs of the JR Pass against individual train tickets to ensure you make the best decision for your travel experience.
Alternatives to the JR Pass?
Although the JR Pass has long been a favorite go-to for travelers, there are several regional alternatives, such as the JR Osaka-Tokyo Hokuriku Arch Pass JR TOKYO Wide Pass, and JR WEST All Area Pass, each of which offer excellent value for travel within specific regions.
You can learn more about each of these passes at the link below.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kanzenkoshitsuyakinikutabehodai Gyugyu Paradise Sannomiya
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Kambei Sannomiyahonten
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
This Japanese train station has its very own hot spring bathhouse, right on the platform【Photos】
-
Safe and Comfortable Summer in Japan! Sunscreen, Cooling Hacks & Other Child-Friendly Summer Essentials
by: Chehui Peh
-
Stay Cool and Protected: Japanese UV & After-Sun Products You'll Love
by: Chehui Peh
-
Spray Your Shirt Cold?! Japan's Smartest Sweat-Fighting Hacks You Can Buy at Don Quijote
by: Chehui Peh
-
Stay with Snorlax? Grand Hyatt Tokyo's Summer Pokémon Resort Experience Is the Ultimate Sleepover
-
Ad
Lapoppo Farm, one of Japan's leading makers of sweet potato treats! An in-depth guide to the secrets behind its popularity, including best-selling products and facilities!
-
Tokyo Train Map: Your Essential Guide to Subways and Railways
-
Visiting Hokkaido in Spring (March/April/May): Weather, Things to Do & What to Wear
-
Tokyo Midtown in Akasaka: The Five Must-Visit Spots
-
Healthcare in Japan for Tourists: What to Do When You Get Sick or Injured in Japan
-
Japan's 2021 Trend! We Tried This Tokyo Hotel's Fun 'Oshikai Plan' (You Won't Believe What's Included!)
by: Naho Jishikyu
-
Cosme Loft: We Tried the Cosmetics That Are All The Rage in Japan Now!
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks