Since Kansai WIDE Area Pass was released in April, 2012, this deal has been very popular for the tourist who wants to travel outside Kansai, like Kinosaki Onsen, Kii peninsula and Okayama/Kurashiki. This pass covers much bigger area than other Kansai area passes, like JR West Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Thru Pass. I am very happy that tourist tries to visit not only Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe but also outside Kansai.
In this post, I would like to show you the details of this pass and make sure the difference from other passes.
Coverage area
Kansai WIDE Area Pass covers not only Kansai area, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Kansai airport, Nara and Himeji but also many places outside Kansai area. I would like to introduce some popular spots. Please see the map below:
- Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉) – One of popular hot springs resort in northern Hyogo prefecture. It can be accessed by limited express Kounotori from Osaka and limited express Kinosaki from Kyoto.
- Amanohashidate (天橋立) – It is connected directly with Kyoto by limited express Hashidate. You need to pay some extra because this train goes through Non JR line. But even Japan Rail Pass do not cover it either. Please see the details about extra at limited express Hashidate.
- Shirahama (白浜) – This popular hot springs area is located in Kii peninsula. It can be accessed by limited express Kuroshio from Kyoto, Shin-Osaka and Tennoji.
- Shingu (新宮) – This town is located at the south end of Kii peninsula. It is the gate town of UNESCO World Hertage Site, “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range”. This can be accessed by limited express Kuroshio from Kyoto, Shin-Osaka and Tennoji too.
- Okayama (岡山) – This city is located in Chugoku region and have one of three best landscape garden, Kourakuen Garden. It can be accessed by Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka in one hour.
- Kurashiki (倉敷) – It is 15 minutes away from Okayama by local train. The preserved “Canal Area” is quite popular. There is Shin-Kurashiki station on Sanyo Shinkanse. But this station is not located in Kurashiki area. And Sanyo Shinkansenn between Okayama and Shin-Kurashiki is not covered by Kansai WIDE Area Pass either. Get on local train from Okayama when you get there.
- Takamatsu (高松) – It is a gate city in Shikoku. It has Takamatsu castle and very popular Udon noodle.
- Tottori – It is very well known as the city which has the biggest sand dune in Japan.
I recommend you to stay in these places. But you can visit all above spots as day trip. If you are looking for something different in your trip other than Kyoto, Kobe, Osaka, Nara and Himeji, this pass gives you access and a huge saving.
Hotels in Kurashiki
Hotels in Okayama
Hotels in Shirahama
Valid period
You can purchase and use this pass in all year round.
Valid trains and bus routes
Please take a look at the map at Kansai WIDE Area Pass official page one more time. You can take all local, rapid trains and Non Reserved seat on the following express trains.
- Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin Osaka-Okayama only)
- Limited Express Haruka (Kansai airport-Shin Osaka/Kyoto)
- Limited Express Kuroshio (Kyoto/Shin Osaka-Shirahama/Shingu)
- Limited Express Kounotori (Shin Osaka/Osaka-Kinosaki Onsen)
- Limited Express Kinosaki (Kyoto-Kinosaki Onsen)
- Limited Express Hamakaze (Osaka-Tottori)
This express trains goes to Tottori. And this is only train to get Tottori from Osaka directly. Tottori was not in coverage area but it was included as of mid April, 2017. - Limited Express Thunderbird (Osaka-Tsuruga)
This express trains goes to Kanazawa and Toyama. But these areas are outside of the area where is covered. - Limited Express Hashidate (Kyoto-Fukuchiyama)
This express trains goes to Amanohashidate. You can get Amanohashidate directly from Kyoto by this train. Amanohashidate is located on Kyoto Tango Railway which was not covered by this pass. But as of mid April, 2017,
the coverage area was expanded. Kyoto Tango Railway is not covered by this pass fully. - Limited Express Super Hakuto (Kyoto-Tottori)
This express trains connects Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Tottori and Kurayoshi. This train is the most convenient and the fastest way to get Tottori from Osaka and Kyoto. JR Pass does not cover this train fully. This train ride is one of the big advantage of Kansai Wide Area Pass. - Limited Express Super Inaba (Okayama-Tottori)
This train connects Okayama and Tottori. It takes same way to get Tottori as Super Hakuto between Kamigori and Tottori. This train is not covered by JR pass fully either. This train ride is one of the big advantage of Kansai Wide Area Pass too. - Limited Express Wide View Hida (Osaka-Maibara)
This express trains goes to Takayama. But this is obviously outside of the area where is covered. And this train is not mentioned on the official page. But technically you can take this train between Osaka and Maibara with no charge. However there is only one round trip a day. It is not much useful.
As of mid April 2017, this pass started to cover JR bus in Kyoto and Fukui. In Kyoto, you can get Ryoan-ji temple, Kitano-Tenmangu shrine, Takao area via Nijo. This pass also covers Obamba to/from Omi-Imazu bus service and Sonobe to/from Fukuchiyama bus service.
As I mentioned above, Kyoto Tango Railway is now covered. You also can take Wakayama Dentetsu Railway between Wakayama and Kishi by this pass.
Price
There will be two different prices, purchase outside Japan and inside Japan. If you purchase it outside Japan, price is slightly cheaper. Please see the details at the below:
Purchasing from the travel agent overseas (Before arrival) | Purchasing from JR West online (Before arrival) | Purchasing from JR West station (After arrival) | |
---|---|---|---|
Adult | 10,000 yen | 10,800 yen | 11,000 yen |
Child 6-11 years | 5,000 yen | 5,400 yen | 5,500 yen |
The validity of a rail pass starts from 12 O’clock at night, midnight to midnight.
Compare with regular fare
This is very attractive price. It is very easy to pay off. The following sample fares includes base fare and non reserved seat limited express surcharge:
- One way trip from Kansai Airport to Shin Osaka by Limited Express Haruka — 2,330 yen
- One way trip from Kansai Airport to Kyoto by Limited Express Haruka — 2,850 yen
- Round trip between Shin Osaka and Himeji by Shinkansen — 6,440 yen
- Round trip between Shin Osaka and Okayama by Shinkansen — 11,000 yen
- Round trip between Osaka and Kinosaki Onsen by Limited Express Kounotori — 10,160 yen
- Round trip between Kyoto and Kinosaki Onsen by Limited Express Kinosaki — 8,640 yen
- Round trip between Shin Osaka and Shirahama by Limited Express Kuroshio — 10,160 yen
- Round trip between Shin Osaka and Shingu by Limited Express Kuroshio — 13,380 yen
As you see above, if you take Haruka from Kansai airport to Shin-Osaka and have round trip by Shinkansen to Himeji from Shin-Osaka, it is pay off. It is very very attractive price.
Compare Kansai WIDE Area Pass and other passes
I have already written about JR West Rail Pass – Kansai Area Pass and Kansai Thru Pass (Surutto Kansai Pass). Please refer my post, How to choose discount railway ticket and pass in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara) area.
Compare Kansai WIDE Area Pass and Kansai Area Pass
You can choose 1 to 4 days from Kansai Area Pass. Please refer the post, How to use JR West Kansai Area Pass. Compare pass and single fare. The prices are 2,060 yen, 4,110 yen, 5,140 yen and 6,170 yen. Kansai Area Pass covers only Kansai area and does not allow you to take any express trains other than Airport Express Train Haruka. I recommend you to use 1 days pass for transfer from Kansai airport to Shin-Osaka/Kyoto. As you saw the regular fare above, 1 day pass rate 2,330 yen is cheaper than one way trip to Shin-Osaka from Kansai airport. But there is ICOCA and Haruka that includes Haruka one way ticket and 1500 yen ICOCA e-money. This is better deal than Kansai Area Pass one day.
If you compare both passes, the price is less than 2,000 yen difference. Kansai WIDE Area Pass covers many more places and more trains. In my opinion, Kansai Wide Area Pass has much greater value than Kansai Area Pass.
Even if you stay and travel in Kansai area only, Kansai Thru Pass may be better choice because it covers subway and bus services in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.
Compare Kansai WIDE Area Pass and Kansai Thru Pass
As I mentioned on my post, How to choose discount railway ticket and pass in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara) area, Kansai Thru Pass is the best rail pass for sightseeing in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. This deal includes Kyoto municipal transportation (subway and bus) and Osaka municipal transportation (subway and bus). This is a huge asset to explore in Kyoto and Osaka. Especially you cannot go to any popular spots without subway and bus services in Kyoto. All JR rail passes, Kansai WIDE Area Pass, Kansai Area Pass, even Japan Rail Pass, do not cover any subway and city bus services. Kansai Thru Pass covers all major private rail lines too. In Kansai area, there are many private rail lines. When you go to Kyoto and Nara from Osaka, private lines, Hankyu (Umeda-Kawaramachi), Keihan (Yodoyabashi/Kyobashi-Shijo/Sanjo), Kintetsu (Namba/Tsuruhashi-Nara, Kyoto-Nara) are more convenient.
Conclusion
So if you are sure that you stay and travel in Kansai area only, I don’t recommend you to use Kansai WIDE Area Pass. But if you are interested in the area other than Kyoto, Kobe, Osaka, Nara and Himeji to visit, this pass may be suitable for you. Kansai Thru Pass is a good rail pass. But this pass does not cover the area other than Kansai area, such as Kinosaki, Okayama and Shirahama.
If you stay in Kansai area for 3 days or less, you do not have enough time to explore outside Kansai. You should stay and enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and Nara. But if you stay for 4 days or more, you may have an extra time to enjoy both Kansai are and outside of Kansai.
e.g.
If you stay in Osaka for 5 nights,
Day 1 Kansai airport – Shin Osaka (Kansai WIDE Area Pass)
Day 2 Day trip to Shirahama (Kansai WIDE Area Pass)
Day 3 Day trip to Kurashiki (Kansai WIDE Area Pass)
Day 4 Day trip to Kyoto (Kansai Thru Pass)
Day 5 Day trip to Nara (Kansai Thru Pass)
Day 6 Osaka – Kansai airport (Kansai Thru Pass)
In above sample plan, I use Kansai WIDE Area Pass for 3 days only. Of course you can use this pass for day 1 to 5 and add the regular fare or other deal to get Kansai airport. But even though you use Kansai WIDE Area Pass for 3 days, you get your money worth.
I hope this pass encourages you to explore outside Kansai area. I love Kinosaki and Kurashiki. If you have an extra time, I strongly recommend you to visit these places.
Comments
Hi Takeshi,
I am planning a 12 days trip to Japan in coming November. After studying various train options and reading your posts, I have listed how to travel around. I would appreciate that you can review and give any suggestions.
Day1- Kaisai airport to Noda- use Kanku Chikatoku ticket
Day2 – join bike tour
Day3 – visit various Osaka attractions using JR, Nankai or subway. Plan to start using Kaisai Wide Area Pass(d1). Understand we needy to buy subway tickets, but can we use this pass on Nankai rail?
Day4 – using pass(d2) to do Nara in one day and then to Kyoto
Day5 – visit various Kyoto attractions using pass(d3) by JR train and JR bus.
Day6 – visit various Kyoto attractions using pass(d4) by JR train and JR bus.
Day7 – to Okayama (may stop at Himeji first) from Kyoto using pass(d5). Can I take Shinkansen Nozomi directly from Kyoto to Okayama? or Shinkansen Hikari to Himeji and then Shinkansen Kodama/Sakura/Mizuho/Nozomi to Okayama?
Day8 – cycle the Kibiji trail
Day9 – from Okayama to Hiroshima by Shinkansen. Any suggestion beside using single ticket? Does Kaisai wide area pass cover this part? If does, I can start pass day1 from Day5 to Day9 and buy needed single tickets for Day3 and Day4.
Day10 – day trip to Miyajima island and back to Hiroshima.
Day11 – from Hiroshima to Fukuoka by Shinkansen. Any suggestion beside single ticket?
Day12 – fly out from Fukuoka airport
Thanks in advance to take a look at my plan. Any suggestions will be really appreciated.
Dorris
Hi Dorris,
I recommend you to use Sanyo Sanin area pass for day 5 to 11.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/sanyo-sanin-area-pass-it-is-much-better-deal-than-sanyo-area-pass.html
http://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/sanyo_sanin/
This is only pass to cover Kyoto-Okayama-Hiroshima-Hakata. But as you probably notice, you cannot use any Shinkansen trains from Kyoto to Shin-Osaka. This pass does not cover it and you need to take other limited express train, such as Haruka.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
After Shin-Osaka, you can take any Shinkansen trains, like Nozomi, Mizuho, Hikari, Sakura. These passes are issued by JR West which is one of JR group. Kyoto to Shin-Osaka segment is same Shinkansen line but it’s not owned by JR West. That is why you cannot take this Shinkansen segment.
For day 1, Chitoku is okay. For day 3, you may use one of the deals in the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
For day 4, single ticket is only choice. You may use Kansai one pass instead of single ticket.
https://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
From day 5, you can use JR trains and bus by Sanyo Sanin area pass. But JR trains and bus are not enough to cover Kyoto. You should add Kyoto city bus pass.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi, Takeshi,
Thank you very much for the advice. It seems we will save a lot by the Sanyo Sanin Rail Pass. I will look into detail on the link you provided.
Thanks again!
Dorris
No worries, Dorris.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Would you please give us an advice on what is the best pass (if appropriate) for us on the following travel plan:
17th Oct – Kansai airport to Osaka (Shinsaibashi )
18th Oct – Day trip to Kurashiki
19th Oct – Day trip to Kyoto
20th Oct Day trip at Mount Koyasan
21st Oct Osaka – Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Or it is the same as buying individual ticket for each of the above location?
Thank you in advance.
Hi Lily,
You need Kansai wide area pass because you will go to Kurashiki.
This pass does not cover subway, city bus and Non JR trains. There is no JR station station around Shinsaibashi. So when you use this pass, you need to pay extra to get JR stations first, such as Tennoji or JR-Namba.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-transfer-among-kyoto-osaka-and-kobe-compare-japan-railway-and-private-lines.html
You also need to add bus pass in Kyoto and other deal for trip to Koyasan because this pass does not cover Koyasan.
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-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/koyasan.html
You need to add lots on the top of Kansai wide area pass. However even if you use this pass for trip to Kurashiki only, you still can get the worth of it.
At last, you need to add single fare or Platt Kodama for Osaka to Tokyo.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/platt-kodama-one-way-deal-among-tokyo-nagoya-kyoto-and-shin-osaka-by-shinkansen.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you for your advice, Takeshi.
Can I just confirm that if we are getting Kansai Wide pass (5 day pass), we can use that for JR train to Kurashiki, Nara, Himeji, Kobe, Kyoto?
We just need to buy separate tickets if we want to travel on subway within Osaka and Kyoto (bus and subways)?
And if we do visit Koya-san for a day trip we can just purchase Koyasan World Heritage ticket ?
And lastly, we can purchase one way Platt Kodama ticket from Osaka to Tokyo.
Hi Lily,
You have understood all correctly.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Sorry, one more question. I can pick up Kansai Wide pass at Kansai airport and use it for the train from Kansai airport to Osaka downtown, right?
Lily
Hi Lily,
Yes, you can if you want. You can take either rapid or limited express Haruka.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/how-to-get-kansai-airport-and-wakayama-kansai-airport-rapid-service-and-kishuji-rapid-service.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
I am planning a trip to Osaka in Oct 2017. Here is my itinery;
Day 1 : 2135hrs arrived KIX. Stay Hotel Nikko
Day 2 : checkout and take haruka express to shin-osaka. Check in hotel. Go Nara
Day 3 : okayama and kurashiki
Day 4: wakayama to kishi ( take theme train and visit the cat)
Day 5 : amanohasidate
Day 6 : okunoshima
Day 7 : shinsaibashi
Day 8 : ringku outlets
Day 9 : fly home in morning
I am planning to activate 5 day kansai wide area pass on my day 2 . Isit feasible? Does the kansai wide area pass cover all my trips fare from day 2 to 6 ? Which day do i need to use icoca card? Looking forward for your reply. Thankyou very much.
Regards
Cherry
Hi Cherry,
You meant Okunoshima is rabbit island, right?
If so, you need Kansai Hiroshima area pass.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kansai-hiroshima-area-pass-perfect-deal-for-the-traveller-who-wants-travel-both-kansai-and-hiroshima.html
Because you will take a ferry from Tadanoumi port which is outside coverage area of Kansai wide area pass. Kansai Hiroshima area pass covers access to Tadanoumi. But ferry fare is not covered by any passes. You need to pay for it by regular fare.
You may use Kansai one pass instead of ICOCA for day 7 to 9.
https://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thankyou for your reply. I will get the Kansai Hiroshima area pass. May I know if this pass covers the bus #2 bound for Kasuga Taisha (¥190) – Nara and also tram/street car to Shiroshita (Okayama Castle) in Okayama?
I still own a Icoca card from my last trip. Isit the same as Kansai one pass ?
Looking forward for your reply. Thankyou.
Regards
Cherry
Hi Cherry,
This pass does not cover any city bus and streetcar. It covers only JR trains, some of JR bus and ferry to Miyajima which I mentioned in the post. Any other transportation is not covered.
Kansai one pass is similar to ICOCA. But ICOCA does not offer any discount at attractions but Kansai one pass does. You cannot get same benefit of Kansai one pass by ICOCA unfortunately.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thankyou for replying.
I would like to check does Kansai Hiroshima Area pass allow free seat reservations similar to JR pass instead of looking for empty seats on the unreserved cars?
Thankyou.
Regards
Cherry
Hi Cherry san,
Kansai Hiroshima area pass does not allow you to reserve a seat. Basically you have to find an unoccupied seat in non non reserved seat car. If you want to reserve your seat, you need to pay full fare of reserved seat fee. Please see the link below to find more info:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thankyou for your prompt reply.
What about using the Kansai Hiroshima Area pass to travel from Kansai Airport to Shin-Osaka using Ltd Express Haruka? Do i just go straight to the train platform and take the train without going to JR office to make any reservations? Sorry for so many questions. Thankyou.
Best Regards
Cherry
Hi Cherry san,
That’s right. You don’t need to reserve a seat and just get on non reserved car.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi- san,
Can you advise what is the best pass should I get with the following itenerary? I think i will get a Kansai wide area pass but I am doubting it as I dont know if bus is also covered with this pass .
Day 1 okayama airport am , Korueken Garden , okayama garden
Day 2 Kurashiki tour
Day 3 and Day 4 Fushimi Inari Taisha , Arashimaya Bamboo Forest kiyomizudera , Golden Pavillion, Ninenzaka, Sennenzaka, Kiyomizudera, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara park and Todai temple
Day 5 Universal Studio
This was the draft of my itenerary . Thank you for your advice .
Hi Alicia san,
Kansai wide area pass may work. But I’m not sure 100% because your itinerary does not show me where you stay. If you stay in Okayama on day 1 and 2, in Kyoto on day 3 and 4, and Osaka in day 5, your total cost will be almost same as the pass price. If you stay in Okayama only and make day trips, you can get the worth easily.
This pass does not cover bus services basically. It covers JR bus in Kyoto but it does not cover any spots in your trip. So basically this covers only trains.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi I will be staying on okayama for 5 days and have day trips on kyoto and osaka on day 3,4, and 5 . What do you think should I get aside from Kansai wide pass to be able to use on buses . Thank you
Hi Alicia,
You should get Kansai wide area pass anyway. You need to add bus or/and subway pass in Osaka and Kyoto as you need. But some of places in these cities can be accessed by JR trains. Please see the links below to find more info:
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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi- san , thank you for these information. It helped mea lot
No worries, Alicia.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi san ,
I have a kansai wide pass. I am coming from Okayama station going to Kyoto . Kansai area wide pass doesn’t cover okayama to kyoto . What should I take using my Jr kansai wide pass after okayama to shinosaka ?
Thank you
Alice
Hi Alizia san,
You can take any trains other than Shinkansen, such as Special Rapid, Haruka, Thunderbird.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/rapid-service/special-rapid-service.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/limited-express-thuderbird-raicho-%E9%9B%B7%E9%B3%A5.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-San,
Need your help for the kansai wide pass.
1, from Kyoto to Okayama, can I take any train other than shinkansen to shin-osaka then change nozomi ? Or I can take nozomi from Kyoto and pay supplement for the ride between Kyoto and shin-osaka?
2, from kinosaki to Okayama via hemiji, can I take sakura between hemiji and okayama? It’s 30mins less on waiting time than taking on nozomi. With the pass what’s the best route between kinosaki and okayama?
3, from wakayama , what’s the best route to get to Kyoto by the pass ? On the way back from shirahama I like to drop by kisei to visit the cat.
Thanks for your help Takeshi-San
Cheers
Hi Joe san,
1. You can take either way. You can take any trains other than Shinkansen to get Shin-Osaka and then take any Shinkansen trains. Or you can pay full fare of Kyoto to Shin-Osaka to take Shinkansen trains to go through Okayama. Remember if you take Shinkansen from Kyoto, you need to pay full fare for Kyoto to Shin-Osaka. You need to pay even base fare because Shinkansen line on this segment does not belong to JR West. Kansai wide area pass does not cover this Shinkansen segment at all. Only conventional line is covered.
2. You can take this route. It’s the fastest route.
3. If you can catch limited express train Kuroshio to Kyoto, it’s the fastest. But some of Kuroshio go to Shin-Osaka only. You may need to change trains there.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kuroshio-ocean-arrow.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks for the reply, Takeshi-San.
So am l right to say that the pass covers all jr trains and shinkansen, even the nozomi in this area except the service between shin-osaka and Kyoto?
Last question : what’s the best route between Kyoto and hikone /長浜?
I found only JR琵琶湖(東海道本線)on hyperdia, but this is not covered, right? And you also mentioned wild view hida , but it’s only 1 round trip a day
Thanks again Takeshi-San
Cheers
Hi Joe san,
You cannot any Shinkansen trains between Kyoto and Shin-Osaka, not only Nozomi but also Hikari and Kodama. Other trains on conventional line, like Haruka, Thuderbird, Special rapid are covered.
For trip to Nagahama, you are right. There is no express trains other than Wide View Hida. Your choice is special rapid, rapid or local trains. Those are covered.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks Takeshi -san,
Do you have timetable for the rapid train between Kyoto and Hikone? All I ‘ve seen so far are JR琵琶湖東海道本線・
Cheers
Hi takeshi-san,
I found the JR 琵琶湖 line special rapid from kyoto to Hikone directly!
Thanks
Hi Takeshi,
First of all, thank you for all the information you share with us in this website. It is a amazing work.
I’ve read quite a lot of posts and I’ve now a much clearer mind about my trip. However, could you please help me to confirm my understanding?
Here is my plan:
D1 to D3: Tokyo => Kyoto (by train). Sightseeing in Kyoto
D4-D5: Kyoto => Koyasan.
It seems to me that Kansai Thru Pass covers this trip. Am I right?
D6: Kyoto => Nara
D7: Kyoto => Uji
D8: Kyoto => Himeji or another place
D9: Kyoto => Beppu Oita
With this itineary I think that Kansai Thru Pass is the most suitable for these 9 days.
Also, it seems to me that there is useless buying JR Pass, even if the trip Kyoto Beppu might be quite expensive.
Could you please give me your advice and your point of view?
I am a very slow tourist and love spending time walking, visiting. I prefer to visit less spots to hurry all around.
I am deeply grateful for your help.
Thank you in advance
Trang
Hi Trang,
You need JR pass if you go to Beppu from Kyoto. One way base fare and express trains surcharge are more than 17,500 yen. You can get the worth of 7 days JR pass by only this trip. And if you intend to visit there as day trip, it takes almost 4 hours for one way. You will spend lots of times and lots of costs to do trip to Beppu.
And also you have a trip to Kyoto from Tokyo. It costs more than 13,000 yen. Even if you use 14 days pass, it works.
But you cannot get Koyasan by JR pass. If you use JR pass, you can get Shin-Imamiya by JR pass. And you can purchase Koyasan world heritage pass there to get Koyasan.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/koyasan.html
I think JR pass is a right choice but I cannot see what you do after going to Beppu. I cannot say which one the best deal is for you at this point.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
I purchased the Kansai Wide Pass, 5 days. I will be staying in Osaka. Can I use this pass on the Anpanman Train to Okayama or Takamatsu? Please advise which train route I should go to catch the Anpanman Train.
Depart from Osaka
Day1: Okayama/Himje
Day2: Wakayama/shirahama
Day3: Kyoto
Day4: Kyoto/ Kinosaki Onsen
Day5: Nara/Osaka
Hi Loanna,
Okayama – Takamatsu segment is covered by this pass. But Ampanman seat is reserved seat and not covered by this pass fully. You have to pay extra to take reserved seat. Extra seat fee is around 1000 to 1500 yen. It’s varied by the distance.
You have a chance to take Anpanman train on day 1 only. But your trip will be very tight if you add Anpanman train trip on top of Okayama and Himeji.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi San,
My itinerary is as follows:
D1 25/3 – Arrive Osaka
D2 26/3 – Osaka – Nara – Osaka
D3 27/3 – Osaka – Himeji – Kobe – Osaka (use 1-day Kansai Area Pass)
D4 28/3 – Osaka
D5 29/3 – Osaka
D6 30/3 – Osaka – Shirahama (Kansai WIDE area pass D6-D8)
D7 31/3 – Shirahama
D8 1/4 – Shirahama – Kyoto
D9 2/4 – Kyoto
D10 3/4 – Kyoto
D11 4/4 – Kyoto
D12 5/4 – Depart from Kyoto
Am I getting the right passes for my trip?
As the Kansai WIDE area pass is with unreserved seats, is it necessary to ‘top-up’ for reserved seats for D6/D8?
How do I go about getting reserved seats and what will be the additional costs?
Hi Ken san,
Kansai area pass 1 day is the best way to get Himeji. But you may consider using Kansai thru pass 2 days for Himeji/Kobe and trip to Nara too.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
If you use this pass, trip time to Himeji is much longer than JR train which is covered by Kansai area pass. But you may get unlimited ride of subway in Osaka and Kyoto. You may use this pass to explore in Osaka after trips. You can take Kintetsu railway to get Nara by this pass. You will get lots of benefits if you accept to spend more time to get Himeji.
For trip to Shirahara. I don’t recommend you to book a reserved seat. If you do it by Kansai wide area pass, the pass covers only base fare and you cannot get the worth. Please see the link below to find more info:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi-san! I’m so happy I found your post!
I’ll be traveling to Osaka and Kyoto with my family in two weeks time and am also planning (really, really planning) to go to Okayama and Kurashiki. 🙂
I’m wondering if the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is worth it? I’m not sure if this pass covers short distance travel around the cities (for example, from Shin-Osaka to Osaka Castle and then Namba area). Do we need to purchase a different card for the local trains or buses? We’ll only be in Japan for seven days though.
Thank you so much! I am so excited to visit Japan — it’s our first time! Have a great day! 🙂
Dear Takeshi,
So does this mean tourists can buy 2 types of passes (Kansai WIDE Area Pass, Kansai Thru Pass) and use consecutively?
i.e. use (Kansai Thru Pass) for first 3 days and (Kansai WIDE Area Pass) for next 5 days.
Thank you!
Hi Ling,
You can purchase both. And you have to use Kansai Wide area pass in consecutive days. But you don’t need to use Kansai thru pass in consecutive days. You can pick any 3 days in your trip period if you want.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you for the reply, Takeshi.
May I also know with this Kansai Wide area pass, what is the fastest way I can get to Kinosaki-onsen from Namba station?
Are all the fares covered with this pass?
Thank you.
Hi Ling,
The fastest way is the following:
Namba (subway) Umeda/Osaka (limited express Kounotori) Kinosaki Onsen
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/limited-express-kounotori.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/osaka-station-guide-how-to-change-jr-trains-subway-trains-and-other-private-railways.html
In this schedule, subway from Namba to Umeda is not covered. If you want to use the pass only, the following route is available.
JR-Namba (local train) Imamiya (local train) Osaka (limited express Kounotori) Kinosaki Onsen
But in this schedule, JR-Namba is not very convenient location and need to change trains more.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/namba-stations-guide-how-to-change-the-trains-among-nankai-kintetsu-hanshin-subway-and-jr.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
Thank you for your reply.
I’m thinking of maybe going to Wakayama as well. May I know how do I get to Wakayama from Namba by this Kansai WIDE Area pass please?
Thanks again.
Hi Ling,
You can take local train to Tennoji from JR-Namba. And the you can take rapid train or Limited Express Kuroshio.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/how-to-get-kansai-airport-and-wakayama-kansai-airport-rapid-service-and-kishuji-rapid-service.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kuroshio-ocean-arrow.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
I have following plan, but not sure what is the best to buy for last 3 days (2 adults and 3 children):
– Day 1 Osaka KIX, head straight to Kyoto (Kansai Wide Area Pass)
– Day 2 Kyoto all day (local day pass)
– Day 3 Kyoto, Nara, then back to Osaka (Kansai Wide Area Pass)
– Day 4 Okayama, Himeji (Kansai Wide Area Pass)
– Day 5 Osaka surrounding, Kobe (Kansai Wide Area Pass)
– Day 6 Osaka central
– Day 7 Osaka Universal Studio
– Day 8 Osaka KIX
Many thanks,
Thet
Hi Thet,
You can choose one of the deals for day 6 in the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
Single ticket is okay for day 7 and you may choose the deal to get KIX in the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com