This blog post is all about my Japan Rail Pass review for navigating Japan’s trains.
When I think back to my time in Japan, one of my most vivid memories is hopping on and off trains to explore everything from neon-lit city centres to serene countryside landscapes.
There’s a special kind of magic to Japanese trains. The sleek Shinkansen speeding past Mount Fuji, the orderly platforms with their musical jingles, and the polite announcements guiding you along the way.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, chances are you’ll end up using the train system at some point.
Whether you’re traveling between major cities, taking a bullet train to cut down on travel time, or simply hopping on a local metro line to explore a neighbourhood, Japan’s rail network is both a marvel and a maze.
This blog post is all about my Japan Rail Pass review.
Japan Rail Pass Review
In this guide, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about navigating the Japanese train system.
We’ll talk about the different types of trains you can take, and how to buy tickets (including a great option: the Japan Rail Pass and if it’s worth buying).
As well as the ins and outs of planning your budget, and a few extra tips, like getting a self-heating bento box for the journey.
By the end, you’ll be able to step onto that train platform with confidence and maybe even a sense of excitement, rather than confusion.
Understanding Japan’s Rail Network
Japan’s train network is both vast and meticulously organized. The country’s rail system is known worldwide for its punctuality, cleanliness, and efficiency.
However, it can initially feel overwhelming, especially if you’re used to simpler train systems back home.
Broadly speaking, there are a few categories of trains in Japan:
1. Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)
These are the iconic, high-speed trains that zip between major cities at hundreds of kilometres per hour.
2. Limited Express, Express, and Rapid Trains
These trains are faster than local trains but not as fast or iconic as the Shinkansen. They often connect major regional areas.
3. Local Trains
Slow, stopping at every station, these are useful for shorter hops around towns, smaller cities, and rural areas.
4. Metro/Subway Systems
In major urban centres like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, you’ll rely heavily on subways and metro lines to get around within the city.
Understanding which category your journey falls into will help you plan your tickets, timing, and budget.
RELATED blog post to read: Japan Cherry Blossom Season 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Useful Links & Resources
✈️ SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Make sure you’re insured with travel insurance! SafetyWing offers great deals for digital nomads as well as travelers booking a backpacking trip.
🚌 12Go Asia
We booked all of our transport in Asia via 12Go. Use this to book sleeper buses, day buses, trains and more to your next destination in Japan.
📲 Airalo Travel eSIM
Access the internet with ease as soon as you land in Japan with an Airalo eSIM. Use code ORLAGH3 for $3 off your first Airalo eSIM.
🚅 Japan Rail (JR) Pass
We spent three weeks travelling around Japan and booked all of our train transport with the JR Pass, saving us a lot of money.
The Legendary Shinkansen: Fast, Efficient, but Pricey
The Shinkansen, often called the bullet train by travellers, is the crown jewel of Japan’s rail system.
These trains are an engineering feat. Capable of speeds up to around 320 km/h (200 mph), they link major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and beyond in record time.
If you’re short on time, hopping on a Shinkansen can transform a half-day bus ride into a short hop of just a couple of hours.
Pros to Riding the Shinkansen:
Unmatched Punctuality: If the timetable says a Shinkansen departs at 10:34, you can practically set your watch to it. Punctuality is deeply ingrained in Japanese train culture. This reliability is priceless when you’re trying to squeeze multiple destinations into a short trip.
Comfort and Cleanliness: You’ll find spacious seating, quiet cabins, and pristine restrooms. The windows frame beautiful landscapes, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on certain routes.
Speed: Cutting down long journeys to mere hours is an incredible advantage. For example, Tokyo to Kyoto can be done in about 2.5 hours rather than 6-7 hours by a slower train or bus.
Cons of Riding the Shinkansen:
Cost: Shinkansen tickets aren’t cheap. A one-way ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto can easily cost over ¥13,000 (roughly $90-$100), and that’s just a basic fare. If your itinerary involves multiple bullet train trips, this can quickly add up.
Reservations and Luggage: Recent changes require booking space for large luggage in advance. While not always strictly enforced (some travellers have gotten away without it – us included), it’s a rule worth respecting, especially during peak seasons. This extra step might involve more planning and, in some cases, additional fees.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend Three Weeks in Japan: Travel Route
Slower Trains: A More Budget-Friendly, Local Experience
If the Shinkansen is too pricey or not on your route, don’t despair.
Japan’s limited express, express, and local trains are still punctual, clean, and comfortable—just slower.
They often cost significantly less than the Shinkansen, making them great options for those watching their travel budget closely.
Limited Express/Express Trains:
Speed vs. Cost: These trains are faster than locals because they skip many stations. They may charge an express fee on top of the base fare, but it’s usually cheaper than a Shinkansen.
Reservations: Some routes may let you reserve seats. If you’re traveling during busy times (like Golden Week, Obon, or New Year’s), reservations might be a good idea.
Local Trains:
Cheaper But Slower: Local trains stop at every station. They’re not ideal for long distances if you’re on a tight schedule. However, they’re perfect for short hops between towns or exploring regions off the typical tourist path.
Experience Everyday Life: Taking a local train can feel more immersive. You’ll see Japanese commuters going about their daily lives, families heading to the mall, and students in uniform traveling to school.
More Useful Links & Resources
👩🏻💻 NordVPN
If you plan to use public WiFi a lot or want to stream your favourite TV shows from your home country, make sure you have a VPN connection.
🏍️ International Driving License
If you plan to drive the Mario Karts in Tokyo, you will need to have an International Drivers License to do so.
🚁 Tours & Activities
Book your tours, cooking classes, museum visits and more via the below activity booking platforms:
- GetYourGuide: great for things like museums, quirky activities and more
- Viator: use Viator to book private tours and transport to other destinations across Japan
🏨 Hostelworld
Book your hostel accommodation in Japan with Hostelworld, the most reliable hostel site.
Metro Systems: Navigating the Urban Jungle
In major cities, subways and metros will likely be your primary mode of transport for local exploration.
Tokyo’s metro system, for instance, is famously complex, with multiple operators and lines crisscrossing each other.
Tips for Navigating the Metro:
Download a Transport App: Use apps like Google Maps, HyperDia (though it’s now mostly subscription-based), or official city apps to navigate the metro. They’ll show you which platforms, transfers, and times you need.
Buy a Rechargeable IC Card: Cards like Suica or Pasmo simplify metro travel. Just tap in and out. No need to figure out individual fares at every journey.
Budget Time: Tokyo’s stations, for example, can be massive complexes that feel like small cities. Allow extra time to find the right platform, especially if you’re new to the system. It’s surprisingly easy to get lost in the warren of corridors and levels.
RELATED blog post to read: Before Visiting Japan: 16 Vital Things You Must Know
How to Buy the Japan Rail Pass
One of the hurdles you might face is that many official booking websites for trains are in Japanese.
Even though English signage is quite good in stations themselves, when it comes to purchasing tickets online, you might struggle.
Why the Japan Rail Pass is Helpful:
English-Friendly Interface: Japan Rail Pass is a platform that allows you to search, compare, and book train tickets in English, removing any confusion caused by language barriers.
Convenience and Time Savings: Instead of navigating a Japanese-only site or relying on a complicated ticket machine at the station, you can book from the comfort of your hotel room or even before you depart for Japan.
Great for Popular Routes: If you’re taking a Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, or traveling between major hubs, JR Pass’s user-friendly platform can make the process much smoother.
Note on Price: Keep in mind that using third-party platforms may involve some markup. You’re paying for convenience and English support, which can be worth it if you value a stress-free booking experience.
How to Budget Travel in Japan
Train travel in Japan can be more expensive than you might initially expect. Especially if you’re used to cheaper rail systems elsewhere.
While local trains and metros are generally affordable, the costs shoot up once you consider high-speed travel.
Things to Consider
Shinkansen Fares: A return trip between Tokyo and Osaka on the bullet train will set you back around ¥26,000 (approx. $180+) per person. If you’re doing multiple such journeys, factor that in from the start.
Rail Passes: The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a budget-friendly option for unlimited travel on JR trains, including many Shinkansen routes. This can be your best deal if you’re taking several long-distance journeys.
Budgeting for Extras: Don’t forget about seat reservations, luggage reservations on Shinkansen routes, or any express fees for faster trains. These small charges can add up.
RELATED blog post to read: The Ultimate Osaka Japan Guide: A 3 Day Local’s Itinerary
The Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth It?
The JR Pass stands as a symbol of affordability.
Buy the pass, hop on as many trains as you want for a set period, and explore to your heart’s content.
When the Japan Rail Pass Makes Sense:
Frequent Long-Distance Travel: If you’re zipping between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and maybe even up to Hokkaido or down to Kyushu within a short span (one or two weeks), the pass will pay off.
High Travel Intensity: If you’re the type who changes cities almost daily, the pass can save you a fortune!
When Not to Buy the JR Pass:
Short Trips or Single Region Focus: If you’re spending most of your time in one region or just making one or two Shinkansen journeys, the cost might outweigh the benefit.
New Pricing: Always check the updated JR Pass prices. Sometimes individual tickets plus a few discounted regional passes can be cheaper.
Luggage and Reservations: The Changing Landscape
One detail that might surprise you: luggage reservations. Some Shinkansen routes now require reservations for large suitcases.
This is a relatively recent development. You can often reserve a space in the last row of the carriage where extra luggage storage is available. If you don’t, you risk a fee.
My Experience on Japan’s Trains
Not Booking in Advance: I travelled without booking baggage space and managed just fine, but this might be luck or due to off-peak travel periods.
Travel Light if Possible: If you can manage with carry-on sized luggage, you’ll have far fewer headaches navigating trains and stations.
RELATED blog post to read: Airalo eSIM Review: The Ultimate Travel Companion for Staying Connected
Station Size and Complexity: Arrive Early and Stay Calm
Japanese train stations, especially in major cities, can be enormous.
Tokyo Station, for example, is a labyrinth of interconnected lines, underground malls, and passageways.
Kyoto Station is another large complex with multiple floors, department stores, and entrances that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie.
Tips for Handling Station Complexity
Arrive With Extra Time: Don’t assume you can roll into the station five minutes before departure. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes earlier, especially if it’s your first time at a particular station.
Follow Signs and Ask for Help: There is ample English signage, but it’s easy to get turned around. Station staff are helpful, and a quick “Sumimasen, [destination name]?” will usually get you pointed in the right direction.
Look for Landmarks: Some platforms or service areas have unique identifiers—like a particular store, sign, or color-coded direction arrows. Use these as mental anchors.
Food on the Go: Grab a Self-Heating Bento Box
One of the joys of Japanese train travel is the food you can enjoy en route.
Most Shinkansen stations (and even some local stations) have kiosks selling ekiben—special boxed meals made for train journeys.
Beyond these, Japan is famous for its self-heating bento boxes.
Self-Heating Bentos
How They Work: These bentos have a small chemical pack inside. When you pull a string, it activates the pack, and within a few minutes, you’ve got a hot meal without needing a microwave or hot water.
Variety and Quality: You’ll find traditional Japanese meals, meat or fish options, and also Western-inspired dishes. This means you can have a tasty, hot meal while watching the scenery flash by.
Cost: Expect to pay around ¥1,000–¥1,500 for a decent self-heating bento, depending on the ingredients. It’s not the cheapest meal, but the experience and convenience are worth it.
Other Useful JR Pass Tips
As you get ready to navigate Japan’s trains, here are a few more pointers:
IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca): These rechargeable cards are invaluable for metro, bus, and also local train travel. You just tap in and out, making travel so much smoother.
Avoid Peak Times If Possible: Japanese rush hour can be so intense. If your schedule is flexible, travel mid-day or off-peak to avoid the rush.
Etiquette on the Train: Trains are quiet spaces. Keep your voice down, set your phone to silent mode, and also avoid eating smelly foods if you’re in crowded local trains. It’s all about respect and harmony.
Check Train Timetables in Advance: While trains are frequent, some routes may have reduced services at certain times of day. Plan ahead so you’re not left waiting longer than expected.
RELATED blog post to read: The Best 23 Things To See In Tokyo, Japan
Japan Rail Pass Review: Embrace the Journey
Travelling by train in Japan is more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s an experience that can also become a highlight of your trip.
Yes, the system is complex, stations can feel like mazes, and tickets can be pricier than you might have budgeted for. But once you’re settled into your seat, watching the countryside whiz by, enjoying your hot bento box, you’ll understand why the world raves about Japanese trains.
By using a user-friendly, money-saving booking platform like the JR Pass, and arriving at stations with extra time to spare, you’ll navigate the rails with so much ease.
Soon enough, you’ll find yourself marvelling at how exactly-on-time, clean, and quiet these trains are. And you’ll be so grateful that you took the plunge into this uniquely Japanese travel experience.
So go ahead, hop on that train in Tokyo bound for Kyoto, savour the neatness of the experience, and let yourself fall just a little bit more in love with Japan’s efficient, enchanting rail system.
RELATED Japan blog posts to read:
- How to Spend Three Weeks in Japan: Travel Route
- Japan Cherry Blossom Season 2025: Everything You Need to Know
- The Best 23 Things To See In Tokyo, Japan
- Before Visiting Japan: 16 Vital Things You Must Know
- The Ultimate Osaka Japan Guide: A 3 Day Local’s Itinerary
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