What is the JR Pass for all of Japan?
The JR Pass for all of Japan is the most booked rail pass for travelers to Japan. There's a good reason for this: it allows you unlimited travel on the Shinkansen and almost all trains of the state-owned JR network throughout the entire country, similar to a BahnCard 100 or a GA in Switzerland. Certain JR buses and ferries are also included.
In short: If you want to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, from Kyoto to Hiroshima, and further to Fukuoka, the pass covers almost everything – without you having to buy a single ticket each time.
Durations and Prices
The pass is available in three variants. You also choose between second class (Ordinary Car) and first class (Green Car).
| Duration | "Ordinary Car" (2nd Class) | "Green Car" (1st Class) |
|---|---|---|
| 7 Days | 279.49 EUR / CHF 257.79 | 391.35 EUR / CHF 360.89 |
| 14 Days | 447.24 EUR / CHF 412.45 | 614.99 EUR / CHF 567.15 |
| 21 Days | 559.09 EUR / CHF 515.59 | 782.70 EUR / CHF 721.79 |
For comparison: A single Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Osaka costs around 125 EUR or CHF 115. Round trip – and you've almost amortized the 7-day pass. If another route – e.g., your airport transfer – is added, it almost always pays off.
💡 Rule of thumb
Two or more Shinkansen routes over 300 km – and the JR Pass is worth it in most cases. If you only stay in one city, a regional IC day ticket is more worthwhile instead.
What is included?
You can use the following free of charge with the JR Pass:
- All Shinkansen lines except Nozomi and Mizuho (the fastest connections on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines)
- All JR local trains, regional trains, and intercity trains
- JR buses and certain JR ferries
- Airport transfers, e.g.
- Tokyo Haneda: Tokyo Monorail
- Tokyo Narita: Narita Express (NEX)
- Osaka Kansai Airport: Haruka Limited Express
The Hikari and Sakura Shinkansen will reliably take you on any main route – without Nozomi or Mizuho (not included). In most cases, the time difference is less than 20 minutes.
How does booking work?
You can conveniently book the JR Pass online via GetYourGuide* – up to 180 days in advance. The process is straightforward:
-
1Book onlineGetYourGuide or another authorized provider. Be sure to book before your trip, as it is usually more expensive locally.
-
2Receive voucher via FedEx/UPSYou will receive a voucher for the JR Pass by mail to your home. Allow some time for shipping.
-
3Redeem voucher in JapanRedeem your voucher within three months and receive your JR Pass. For this, you can visit an official JR office at airports and most train stations.
⚠️ Important
The email confirmation after booking is not a valid redemption certificate. You absolutely need the physical voucher before you depart for Japan. So, allow enough time for shipping – especially if you book shortly before your flight.
Who is the pass for?
The JR Pass is exclusively for non-Japanese citizens with a tourist visa (Temporary Visitor). As a traveler from Germany, Switzerland, France, or Belgium, you are automatically eligible.
An important note on entry: Make sure you get your entry stamp at the counter – and not through the automatic gates. Only the stamp at the Manned Counter counts as official proof of visitor status, which you must show upon redemption.
What about luggage?
Standard luggage must not exceed a total dimension of 160 cm (length + width + height). For larger luggage, there are reserved spaces on certain Shinkansen trains that require reservations. Small pets in a carrier can be taken along for a fee, provided the carrier and pet together weigh under 10 kg and have a total dimension of 120 cm. Please check the official websites for the latest regulations.
Links marked with * are affiliate links or advertisements.
