This website shows you a lot of the train passes. But some of you plan to buy a regular ticket. Even if you will use the rail pass, you may have to compare the price of the pass and the regular fare to make sure that you can get the worth of it or not.
In this post, I would like to share the information about the fare calculation with you.
Hyperdia
This is the easiest way to get the fare and the timetable of most trains in Japan. Please refer the link below to learn more:
Google map
Google map can show you the train and the public bus routes. It also shows you the fare.
JR’s rule on passenger’s ticket
JR companies have the biggest train network in Japan. If you travel between major cities, you will take JR train in most cases.
The fare rule is so difficult to understand for the tourists from overseas. Even some travel agents in Japan do not understand the rule completely.
I wrote about this rule as simple as possible in the post below. You can learn the rule of purchasing and using a regular ticket.
JR company’s official site
Some JR companies have the timetable and fare search engine in their official sites.
JR Hokkaido official website
This website offers you the fare and timetable search of most JR trains.
JR West English website
This website offers you the fare and timetable search of most JR trains.
JR Shikoku English website
This website shows you the fare table of most of JR Shikoku lines.
Comments
Hi, Takeshi,
I will be reach kansai on 29/3/15.
thn from kansai airport to namba.
will travel to tokyo yayagi from osaka on 1/4/15, and go back again osaka.
I have calculated the fees, and i think i should get a JR Pass which is more worthy.
but I’m quite confused about the JR Pass, that i know it include all trains line, bus line, and shinkansen for JR except nozomi and mizuho, so i have to take the hikari right?
but if i buy the ordinary JR Pass, i want to sit the reserved seat, am i need to pay extra charges? and if not, how can i reserve the seat?
Thank you very much.
HI Janet,
Yes. JR Pass is cheaper than round trip fare between Kansai airport and Tokyo. You can take Hikari reserved seat without any extra. When you exchange the pass at Kansai airport station, you can book it for all trains that you will take in Japan. You can reserve in advance. Of course you can book later at other JR stations. But if you complete all bookings, it’s easier and you can save the time.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi, Takeshi,
Thank you very much for your fast reply!
So before i reserved all seats for the JR trains, I have to very very sure that my routes and time as well right?
HI Janet,
Yes. But you can change it later in case that you change your mind.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi, I’m travelling to Japan for five weeks next month and hope you can give me some advice on the type of JR Rail Pass (or any rail pass) I should get.
My itinerary is not very specific for now:
– Nagoya, with day trips to Takayama and maybe Magome (total about 5 days?)
– A full week in Kyoto, with a day trip to Shiga (for Biwako). I don’t know if I should do Nara as a day trip or maybe spend about three days there.
– A week in Osaka, with day trips to Kobe, Himeji and probably Wakayama
– Shimane. Initially I wanted to visit the Oki Islands, but it seems the ferries may not be in service during February, so I may just spend three or four days in Matsue?
– Kanazawa for maybe four days
– Sendai for a couple of days (visiting a friend)
– Tokyo for about a week, with day trips to maybe Hakone and one other place.
So basically, I fly into Nagoya, work through Kansai and Shimane, then up to Kanazawa and Sendai, and fly out of Tokyo.
A friend suggested I get the 14-day JR Rail Pass and only start using it once I get out of Kansai. From your website, I see a limited express train from Osaka to Tottori, but is there one from Osaka to Matsue? Should I be getting a Kintetsu pass for Kansai since I’m there for about two weeks?
Appreciate your help! Thank you in advance! (Sorry if I posted this in the wrong section, I’m still reading all the wonderful articles on your site on how to use the various rail passes)
Hi Jun,
As your friend suggested, 14 days JR Pass seems to be the best choice. But I’m still not sure because your itinerary is not completed yet. I’m thinking even 21 days pass may be suitable. You may squeeze Takayama and Magome between Kanazawa and Sendai. Of course you can visit these places as day trip from Nagoya. But in this case, you have to pay single fare. If you include these into Kanazawa-Sendai segment, you can use JR Pass. I recommend you to go to Kansai area first.
KIntetsu Rail Pass can be used for Nagoya to Kyoto. But it’s much longer trip than Shinkansen. Please see the following post:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kintetsu-rail-pass-most-affordable-deal-for-osakakyoto-nagoya-and-access-to-ise.html
This pass is not suitable for the trip in Kansai area. You may use Kansai Thru Pass. But single fare is cheaper than deals in many cases. Please see the following links:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-choose-discount-railway-ticket-and-pass-in-kansai-area.html
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
If you go to Hakone, Hakone Free Pass is the best choice.
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/hakone/
And also, Kanto Area Pass is a good deal to visit outside Tokyo.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/jr-east-kanto-area-pass-perfect-choice-for-tourist-who-want-to-go-to-fuji-izu-nikko-for-a-day-trip.html
When you complete your itinerary and show me, I may give you better idea.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Sorry to get back to you late, I think I have quite a big change in my itinerary.
So unfortunately I’ve bought my ticket (before my first post to you) and I will have to land in Nagoya and fly out of Tokyo. Please have a look at this itinerary and tell me if it works:
1.Start in Nagoya – 5 days, including day trips to Magome and Takayama. Have booked a hotel in Sakae, but I may still be able to change dates by this week (minus one day from Nagoya and use it elsewhere, for example) if it’s really better that I stick Takayama with the Kanazawa segment.
2. Kyoto for 1 week – includes day trips to Shiga (Lake Biwa) and Nara. I should be staying in the Higashiyama area.
3. Osaka for 1 week – includes day trips to Kobe, Himeji and Wakayama
4. Kanazawa for 4 days (I’m trying to find a minshuku in Shirakawago as well, but if I can’t find one, I’ll just stick to Kanazawa)
5. Nagano for 5 days – includes a day or two at Hakuba, and day trips to Kiso, Matsumoto, and the bathing monkeys, hehe
6. Minakami in Gunma for 3 days
7. Tokyo for 7 days – including day trips to Chiba and one other place
I saw your post on Osaka to Shirakawago/Kanazawa, and was really glad for that because I wasn’t sure how to get there. But that means I have to first go to Kanazawa, right? I can’t go to Shirakawago first and then head to Kanazawa?
I’m shelving Sendai for now because because it was going to take more than 5 hours via train from Nagano, although it would be really nice if I could fit it in.
Any help is much appreciated!
Hi Jun,
Your itinerary is good. But JR Pass does not work for your trip. Your choice is single fare and local deals.
But if you can switch Kyoto/Osaka and Kanazawa, you can use Takayama Hokuriku Tourist Pass.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/takayama-hokuriku-area-tourist-pass-perfect-deal-to-get-takayama-kanazawa-shirakawago-from-nagoya-or-osaka.html
If you go for this, your itinerary is like this:
Nagoya-Takayama-Shirakawago-Kanazawa
Kanazawa 4 nights
Kanazawa-Kyoto
So Nagoya-Takayama-Kanazawa-Kyoto is fully covered by this pass. As you think, Shirakawago is located between Kanazawa and Takayama. You cannot skip either Takayama or Kanazawa before access to Shirakawago.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-access-to-takayama-by-trains-and-buses.html
If you don’t want, your choice is Kintetsu rail pass or single ticket. I mentioned Kintetsu rail pass and other deals in Kansai area at the previous reply. Please refer that.
I cannot find any other deals that cover your trip other than local deals, like subway pass in Tokyo. Single ticket is a choice for long distance transfer in your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
I just want to thank you for all the help you’ve given on the rail passes for my itinerary. Thank you so much! I’ll go with your suggestions on fitting in Kanazawa-Shirakawago-Takayama between Osaka and Nagano, that actually works out well for me too.
Once again, thank you!
P.S: I don’t know why my other comment ended up further down the page, oops.
No problem, Jun.
Enjoy your trip!
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi,
I will be going to Tokyo in a week time.
This will be my schedule:
Day 1: Tokyo city tour around
Day 2: Tokyo city bound
Day 3: I need to reach Yatsugatake, Yamanashi Prefecture by night time. Is there any possibility i can go to Hakone for a 1 day trip? How should the itinerary looks like?
Day 4: Back to Tokyo at night
Day 5: Tokyo Disneyland
Day 6: Back
Please advise how should i plan for the route. Thanks very much 🙂
Hi Liew,
You can visit Hakone before you reach Yatsugatake. But it will be tight. Please see the map at the below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
Your route is like this:
Tokyo (or Shinjuku) – Odawara – Hakone – Gotemba – Lake Kawaguchi – Otsuki
Once you get Otsuki, you can take JR train to Kofu, Kobucizawa in Yamanashi.
There are several deals available in Hakone. But single fare is the cheapest for your trip because you will not have enough time to visit all places in Hakone and Mt. Fuji. Your estimated cost from Shijuku to Otsuki is around 6000 yen without any express surcharge. If you take express trains, such as Odakyu Romancecar, you have to pay on top of this total fare.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Sorry for the confusion caused. I have been studying for all the railways for few days but still could not catch much.
I am actually staying at Yatsugatake Royal Hotel.
From Shinjuku, i would like to have a one day trip to Hakone and then reach hotel by night time.
Is that possible? Can i just choose few places which are worth to visit at Hakone?
Please help me to understand this.
Thank you very much Takeshi.
Hi Liew,
As I mentioned the route, you can proceed to Hakone and then go to Otsuki. You can catch the train at Otsuki to Kobuchizawa. And then you have to take local train to Kai-Oizumi on Oumi line.
You can drop by some places in Hakone on this way to Otsuki from Shinjuku. Owakudani, Togendai (Lake Ashi) and Lake Kawaguchi are recommended. If you don’t want to pay the ticket one by one, you can use Fuji Hakone Pass.
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/fujihakone/
You have to give up the last part, Lake Kawaguchi to Shinjuku, of this deal. But if you drop by many places, total fare is not much different from this deal. As I mentioned to you, estimated total fare is 6000 yen. This deal is 7400 yen. But this difference may be smaller.
After you leave Lake Kawaguchi, you have to pay single fare to Kai-Oizumi. You can find the fare and timetable at Hyperdia.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/hyperdia-perfect-guide-train-timetable-and-route-search-engine.html
By the way, you have to make sure what time you want to arrive at Kai-Oizumi station where is the nearest station to Yatsugatake Royal Hotel.
Oumi line to Kai-Oizumi from Kobuchizawa does not have frequent train service. Please find the timetable at the link below:
http://www.hyperdia.com/en/cgi/en/intervaltime.html?dep_node=KOBUCHIZAWA&arv_node=KAIOIZUMI&search_target=intervaltime&diagram=12953&year=2015&month=1&day=16&searchday=20150116
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Many thanks for your suggestions! I’ll try to work things around so that I go to Takayama-Kanazawa after Nagoya. If I do end up getting the Hokuriku Pass, would it be better to go to Osaka from Kanazawa, and then head up to Kyoto, since it’s slightly nearer to Nagano via the Shinano?
Or should I clear Nagoya-Takayama-Kanazawa and Nagano-Minakami before going to Osaka/Kyoto, and then taking the train back to Tokyo?
Thanks again for your detailed response, it’s really helping me plan my trip properly! 🙂
HI Jun,
You can do Kanazawa-Shirakawago-Takayama between Osaka and Nagano. In this case, you can take bus between Takayama and Matsumoto. That’s easier to get Nagano from Takayama than Takayama-Nagoya-Nagano. Please find the locations at the links below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-for-train-access-to-nagano-matsumoto-and-other-places-in-shinshu-and-surrounding-area.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-access-to-takayama-by-trains-and-buses.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi, I’ll be travelling to Tokyo end of this month (30/1/15). My itinerary is as follows:-
Day 1 – Arrival to Haneda International Airport
Day 2 – Tokyo Sightseeing
Day 3 – Tokyo Sightseeing
Day 4 – Overnight trip to Hakone, Mt Fuji
Day 5 – Return from Hakone, Tokyo sightseeing
Day 6 – Depart from Haneda
Is it cost efficient for me to purchase the 7 days JR Pass? Do i need to purchase any other passes if i am planing to do a lot of Tokyo sightseeing.
Thanks.
Hi Kevvy,
Don’t purchase JR Pass. It’s way more expensive than even single fares.
You need JR Tokunai pass or subway ticket in Tokyo. Please find it at the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/tokyo-metropolitan-district-pass-tokyo-tokunai-pass-good-choice-for-sightseeing-in-tokyo.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html
For the trip to Hakone, you can use Hakone Free Pass or Fuji Hakone Pass if you reach other than Hakone. Please find more info at the following link:
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
Single fare is fine between Haneda and downtown Tokyo.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Due to tight schedule, which place in Hakone is a must-go-list?
How much is the fare from hakone to yatsugatake?
Hi Liew,
How are you going to get Yatsugatake? Which station are you going to get off?
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hello,
I was wondering what passes I need when traveling to Japan in March for 14 -17 days?
TOKYO – From Narita International Airport to Tokyo.
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Chidorigafuchi Park
Tokyo Skytree
Sunshine 60 Observatory
Akihabara and Ginza shopping
The National Museum of Emerging Science
Odaiba
Harajuku District
Yoyogi Park
HAKONE, Ashigarashimo District –
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Hakone Garasunomori Museum
Open Air Museum Hakone
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
HAKONE, Mt. Fuji and Surrounds –
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Mt Fuji
Oshino Hakkai Springs
Shiraito No Taki Falls
Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Yamanakako
NAGANO –
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Jigokudani Hot Springs
Matsumoto Castle
Kamikochi National Park
TAKAYAMA, Gifu Prefecture –
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Takayama – Hida Folk Village
Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center
Northern Alps and Shinhotaka Ropeway
Goshikigahara Plateau
KYOTO-
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
OSAKA –
I will be looking to do the following activities and site seeing experiences –
Nunobiki Falls
Nachi Falls
Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
Osaka Castle
Osaka International Airport
Thank-you in advance and have a nice day, Takeshi =)
Hi Lin,
The following deals are recommended.
Fuji Hakone Pass for Hakone and FUji
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/fujihakone/
Takayama Hokuriku Tourist Pass if you are okay to go through Shirakawago and Kanazawa to Osaka/Kyoto from Takayama.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/takayama-hokuriku-area-tourist-pass-perfect-deal-to-get-takayama-kanazawa-shirakawago-from-nagoya-or-osaka.html
Single ticket will be your choice for other segments. But JR pass may be better choice than above deals. It’s hard to find the deals before completing the detailed itinerary. At this point, we can’t compare single fares and deals. Please fix the route, location to stay and how many days you will spend at each location. And then we can find which deal the best is.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Thank-you for getting back to me so promptly, I really appreciate it. I hope this is more specific in regards to locations. As for activities and sightseeing I will be planning on doing the same things as I listed in the first email.
DAY 1. Fly to Tokyo –
DAY 2. TOKYO – From Narita International Airport to Tokyo.
Travel to and stay in – Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan (4 nights)
DAY 6.
Travel to and stay in Gora, Hakone-machi, Kanagawa, Hakone, Japan (2 Nights)
DAY 8 .
Travel to and stay in Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru-gu, Mount Fuji, Japan (2 Nights)
Day 10.
Travel and stay in Suzaka, Suzaka city, Nagano prefecture, Japan (2 Nights)
Day 12.
Travel and Stay in Tenman-cho Takayama City Gifu, Hida Takayama, Japan (3 Nights)
Day 15.
Travel to and stay in Furukawa-cho Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan (2 Nights)
Day 17.
Travel and stay in Taishi, Nishinari, Osaka, Japan (2 Nights)
Day 19.
Osaka International Airport
Thank-you again in advance and have a pleasant day, Takeshi =)
Hi Lin,
My suggestions are the following
Keisei Access Express on arrival day.
http://www.keisei.co.jp/keisei/tetudou/skyliner/us/
Subway pass for Tokyo sightseeing:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html
Subway pass for Tokyo sightseeing:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html
Fuji Hakone Pass
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/fujihakone/
You have to give up for Kawaguchiko-Shinjuku portion. But this is the best deal for first three days for Hakone/Fuji.
Single ticket is your choice for Otsuki to Nagano. You can purchase a single ticket and book the seat when you are in Tokyo in advance. I recommend you to complete it before you leave Tokyo.
Please find the route for Otsuki-Nagano at the links below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-for-train-access-to-nagano-matsumoto-and-other-places-in-shinshu-and-surrounding-area.html
For Nagano-Takayama, take train to Matsumoto by single ticket and take Nohi bus.
Nohi bus from Matsumoto to Takayama.
http://www.nouhibus.co.jp/english/matsumoto.html
Takayama Hokuriku Tourist Pass if you take the route to Kyoto via Kanazawa and Shirakawago:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/takayama-hokuriku-area-tourist-pass-perfect-deal-to-get-takayama-kanazawa-shirakawago-from-nagoya-or-osaka.html
Otherwise single ticket is your choice.
Subway pass or bus pass in Osaka and Kyoto as you need:
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/ticket/convenient.html
You can use Keihan train and Osaka subway from Kyoto to Osaka by single ticket. Ticket can be purchased on the spot:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
On departure day, you can use Kanku Chikatoku ticket:
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Thank-you so much. It was greatly appreciated =)
No problem, Lin.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Dear Takeshi,
Appreciate your advise you on this:
I am wondering if I should purchase the 7 Day Japan Rail Pass. We arrive at Haneda Airport, we will stay 1 night in a hotel near Shinagawa Station. The next day, we travel to Kyoto for 2 days. After that, we will head to Chichibu from Kyoto Station. We will head back to Haneda Airport directly from Chichibu.
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Lynne
Hi Lynne NG,
JR Pass is not a bad choice. Actually total fares will be not much different from JR Pass 7 days price. But It’s much easier to handle and very flexible.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi! I would like to check the differences between JR Kansai Area Pass and Kintetsu Rail Pass. My full trip is 6 days. The main places that I would like to go are Osaka and Kyoto. JR Kansai pass only valid for 4 days but Kintetsu Rail Pass valid for 5 days. Please help to advise which railway pass to choose. Thank you very much for your kind assistance.
Hi Elise,
I think Kintetsu Rail Pass is too much for your trip. This pass is designed to trip to Nagoya or Ise.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kintetsu-rail-pass-most-affordable-deal-for-osakakyoto-nagoya-and-access-to-ise.html
Kansai Area Pass is better choice than Kintetsu Rail Pass. But it may be more expensive than other deals, like Kansai thru pass or even single fare.
There are so many options in Kansai area. You have to make sure which place you will stay before you choose deals. I have several posts to explain about the trip in Kansai area. Please refer the following posts:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/visit-kyoto-osaka-nara-and-kobe-for-5-to-7-days-sample-itinerary.html
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi San,
Can you please assist to check which other pass do I need for my itinerary?
Day 1- Reach Kansai airport > Kyoto > Nagoya > Takayama (stay 2 nights)
Go from Nagoya for the timing and the sake of view in Wide Hida.
Day 2- Shirakawa-go, Shin Hotaka Ropeway
Day 3- Hirayu Onsen, Takayama > Kanazawa > Kyoto (stay 7 nights)
Day 4- Kiyomizudera, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, Ginkakuji
Day 5- Arashiyama, Bamboo Groves, Monkey Park Iwatayama, Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
Day 6- Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara
Day 7- Osaka- Minami, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi, Den Den Town, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Nankinmachi, Ikuta Shrine (Full day trip)
Day 8- Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market
Day 9- Koyasan or Osaka (optional)
Day 10- Depart Japan.
I will be buying Takayama- Hokuriku Pass, Icocca & Haruka Pass.
What other pass is suitable for me to travel around Kyoto?
And if I intend to go Mt Koya, which pass do i need?
Many thanks!
Hi Jas,
You can use all day bus pass or Kyoto sightseeing card for Kyoto.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
If you go to Mt. Koya, use Kansai Thru Pass for day 6 and 9.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
You don’t need to use a pass for day 6. But 2 day is minimum for this pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi San,
I’m planning a second option in case I unable to get up to the train timing I want.
If I take Haruka to Shin Osaka, arrive 0937hr and Shin Osaka depart to Nogaya at 0950hrs.
Is there sufficient for me to rush to change trains including buying a ticket in just 13mins?
If I bought the ticket and unable to rush to the train, can I get a refund on the ticket?
Thank you!
Hi Jas,
You can transfer it easily.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/shin-osaka-station-guide-how-to-change-shinkansen-haruka-thunderbird-and-local-train-access-to-osaka-umeda-and-namba.html
If train is late and you can’t transfer, you can change later train without any extra. But train arrives on time and you can’t, you still can take non reserved seat on later train.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
So I will take the south/ central exit and escalator to 3F(concourse) buy a ticket then escalator up to 4F for the Shinkansen?
Thank you!
Hi Jas,
No. You can purchase Shinkansen ticket at Kansai airport. When you purchase ICOCA and Haruka, you can book and purchase Shinkansen ticket too.
So all you have to do at Shin-Osaka is going through transfer gate at catch Shinkansen.
Remember ICOCA and Haruka cover to Kyoto. But if you transfer to Shinkansen at Shin-Osaka, you have to pay the fare from Shin-Osaka. Once you go through Shinkansen transfer gate, your Haruka portion of ICOCA and Haruka will be expired.
Cheers.
Takeshi / JP Rail
Got it now!
I reach airport 0650hr. Hope can catch the 0755 Haruka.
Just in case some delay, this will be my emergency option.
The timing of the next Haruka at 0846hrs in KIX unable to connect the next Nozomi in Kyoto in time (Although I wish to transfer in Kyoto, much easier on same level) in order to catch the Wide Hida in Nogaya at 1048hrs.
Million thanks!!!
Hi Jas.
Honestly speaking, one hour is very too tight to complete immigration, custom, baggage pick up and purchasing ticket. You may be able to make it. But please keep it in mind that the chance is very slim.
Cheers,
Takeshi
Thanks for the advise.
If not, I will take the option for 0846hr and change train at Shin Osaka:)
Thanks again!
No problem, Jas.
Enjoy your trip!
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi, im reaching Osaka on 19dec. Going straight to Nagano for 3 nights. And back to Osaka, where I be staying for the next 1 week.
Other than the major Osaka attractions, we are going to Nara, Kyoto, Ninjutsu village in Koka, Rinku outlet and Mt Rokko in Kobe.
Should we get the JR pass? or any other passes?
confused! please help! Thanks!
Hi Angie,
JR pass is too expensive for your trip. I think Kintetsu Rail Pass is a good choice for you.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kintetsu-rail-pass-most-affordable-deal-for-osakakyoto-nagoya-and-access-to-ise.html
When you stay in Osaka, you can find some more info at the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Angie,
Sorry. I thought you will go to Nagoya.
Even if you go to Nagano, JR pass is still more expensive than single fare. Single fare to Nagano from Osaka is about 11000 yen. JR Pass 7 days is 29100 yen. You may have chance to use JR Pass when you come back Osaka. But it will be only short transfer. It will not be enough to use JR Pass.
So single fare is your option for Osaka-Nagano and return. And after come back to Osaka, follow the post below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Thanks Takeshi! I’ll check it out. 😉
Hi Takeshi,
I’m confused why you say using JR pass is too expensive for my trip.
using hyperdia, it says to get to Nagano from KIX, i have to take ltd express haruka(to shin-osaka), shinkansen nozomi/hikari(to Nagoya) and ltd express train Shinano(to Nagano). To and fro, it will cost basic fare plus reserved seat cost about 30000yen, whereas the ordinary pass cost 29000yen. if i add in the other trips,won’t it be worthwhile?
please advise. thank you.
(p.s. does both the ordinary and green pass covers all the fare, including reserved fee?)
Hi Angie,
As I calculated, single fare to Nagano from KIX (Haruka, Nozomi, Shinano) is 14250 yen. And when you come back to Osaka, single fare (Shinano, Hikari) is 11790 yen. Total fare is around 26000 yen and it’s cheaper than JR pass. Of course JR pass is easier to handle. You can go for it if you don’t care this difference. You will be able to use JR pass for Nara and Kyoto. The difference will be smaller and maybe JR Pass is cheaper.
If you use ICOCA and Haruka, you can save more.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/icoca-and-haruka-ticket-very-flexible-and-good-deal-for-tourist-who-stay-in-kansai.html
It covers trip to Kyoto when you go to Nagano. So you can add Kyoto-Nagano fare, 11140 yen (Nozomi, Shinano). This pass also cover the trip to KIX when you leave Japan. Round trip pass is valid for 2 weeks. And ICOCA e-money 1500 yen can be used for the trip to Kyoto, Nara or Kobe.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Here is my itenery palnning in nov & dec 2014
29 kansai airport -kyoto
30nov – 2 dec kyoto (nijo castle,fushimi inari,katsura imperial villa,philosopher’s walk,kiyomizu-dera,kinkaku-ji,arashiyama)
3 kobe mosque
4 nara – kansai airport
what is the best for purchase the JR ticket ?
for your info i stay in Guest House Kinta
Japan, 〒605-0816
thank you
Hi abdul rahim abustan,
You can use ICOCA and Haruka one way trip ticket.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/icoca-and-haruka-ticket-very-flexible-and-good-deal-for-tourist-who-stay-in-kansai.html
It covers KIX-Kyoto. And ICOCA e-money 1500 yen can be used for trip to Kobe. Single fare is 1080 yen so it’s not enough. But you can add by cash.
Kansai Area Pass is good for the last day.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-use-jr-west-kansai-area-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
At last, you can use subway or bus deal in Kyoto.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
I will be travelling to Japan in May 2015 (from Sydney, Australia).
Please, could you tell me the best railway method travelling through these cities & approx price:
1. Tokyo
2. Nagoya
3. Kyoto
4.Osaka
5. Hiroshima
Thank you kindly.
Maryanne
Hi Maryanne,
If you make these places in 7 days, you can use JR Pass 7 days. Please see the following sample itinerary.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/sample-itinerary-tokyo-to-osaka-in-just-7-days-by-japan-rail-pass-7-days.html
If you want to spend more than 8 days from Tokyo to Osaka, single fare is cheaper. 14 days pass is way more expensive than single fares.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
My travel itinerary is as follows (May 2015):
1. Tokyo (7 days)
2. Nagoya (1 day)
3.Kyoto (5 days)
4. Osaka (3 days)
5. Hiroshima (1 day)
6. Kobe (1 day)
7. Osaka (1 day)
i) What is the best method to travel through the cities?
ii) Can I use the 7 day JR Pass from Tokyo to Nagoya to Kyoto (for 7 days) and then use it in inside the cities to travel? Or single pass better?
iii) Please advise, what is the best travel method inside Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka?
iv) How do I travel from Osaka to Hiroshima and back?
Thank you kindly. Much appreciated Takeshi.
Hi Maryanne,
1) Shinkansen (bullet train) connects all cities.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-departure-arrival-stations/stations-in-tokai/nagoya-toyohashi/what-is-shinkansen-bullet-train.html
And also you can find PDF timetable at the link below:
http://english.jr-central.co.jp/info/timetable/_pdf/eastbound.pdf
http://english.jr-central.co.jp/info/timetable/_pdf/westbound.pdf
2) No. It’s way higher than single pass. If you can complete Hiroshima and then come back to Kyoto, you can use 7 days pass. Otherwise single ticket is cheaper.
If you are sensitive with cost, I recommend you to go to Hiroshima after Nagoya. Then you can use 7 days pass.
3) Please see the following links:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/tokyo-metropolitan-district-pass-tokyo-tokunai-pass-good-choice-for-sightseeing-in-tokyo.html
4) Shinkansen. I think you found the timetable above. And also you can learn how to use Hyperdia. You can find any train schedule at this site:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/hyperdia-perfect-guide-train-timetable-and-route-search-engine.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail