The business end of a bullet
train or a Shinkansen as they're called in Japan.
If you don't read this entire article, remember this important fact -
Japan Rail Passes cannot be purchased in Japan. With that out of
the way we'll explain everything you need to know about the Rail Pass, how
to get it, what you can do with it, what you can't do with it, and more.
If you're planning to purchase a pass then consult the sources near the
end of this article for accurate and up to date information and pricing.
The basics:
A Japan Rail Pass allows foreign visitors to board trains on different
railway companies which cover the entire country with one Railway Pass. It
allows unlimited rides for a pre-selected period of time which you choose.
Passes are available to everyone who is qualified to live permanently in a
foreign country outside of Japan or who is married to a non-Japanese
residing in a country other than Japan.. They provide substantial discounts and are intended to allow
tourists to move about Japan affordably and with ease. A Rail Pass can
represent huge savings depending on how much you use it. It is highly
recommended and likely the best way to get around Japan.
Different lines and trains:
Your pass allows you to board various trains and lines without much
worry though you will need to understand the types of passes explained
below. You will see and hear of "JR" often which stands for Japan
Railways. JR is not a company but an intricate railway network. The Japan Railway
network is divided into six regions and each region is
serviced by one specific company. Each company is also distinguishable by
a unique color which is often used on color-coded railway maps.
Many different trains service the endless miles of track throughout the
country. You have probably heard of the famous Bullet Trains which Japan
is so well known for and which travel at speeds of up to 184 miles per
hour in quiet comfort. Bullet trains are called "Shinkansen" in Japanese
and you will hear this word used often. Regardless of the type of train
you ride, Japan's railway system is extremely safe and punctual. You
really can set your watch by the trains.
Types of Rail Passes:
There are two types of passes available - Ordinary & Green. Japanese
trains have two main types of cars, which are Ordinary & Green. If you
have an Ordinary pass, you may board only the Ordinary cars, Green passes
may board Ordinary and Green cars. Green cars are considered superior
class and usually available on long distance trains. There are some cars
which even a Green pass will not grant access onto such as private
compartment and sleeping cars. There are also a few additional restrictions
such as the Nozomi trains on the Tokaido and San'yo (or Sanyo) Shinkansen lines, the
pass won't get you onto these.
Aside from Ordinary & Green, you may also find passes available for
specific lines such as an East, West & Kyushu Rail Passes. These may be
more economical if your travels will be limited to a certain region.
Consult the resources near the end of this page for more information
about regional passes.
Just because your pass does not grant you access to any particular car,
it does not mean you cannot ride that car. It means you may ride that car
by paying the additional fee required which will vary depending on the
car.
How to buy Rail Passes:
Because Japan Rail Passes are not sold in Japan, you will need to
select and purchase yours before leaving through an authorized agent.
You will be issued an Exchange Order upon purchase. Once in Japan,
locate any JR station with a Japan Rail Pass Exchange Office and trade
your Exchange Order in for your Rail Pass. You will need to show
your passport and it will need to carry the "Temporary Visitor" stamp
which is issued by immigration to tourists on arrival to Japan.
Kintetsu International
is an authorized sales agent with convenient online ordering available
through their website. For a complete list of authorized sales agents and regional sales
offices visit the official
Japan Railways Group
website. You cannot purchase Rail Passes through their
website but it is a good resource for information.
Japan Travel & Tourism: Related Links,
Resources & Shopping
