My Japan Rail Pass Experience: A Must-Have for European Travelers Exploring Japan
My Japan Rail Pass Experience: A Must-Have for European Travelers Exploring Japan
If you're coming to Japan from Europe and planning to visit multiple cities, there's one essential thing you should consider: the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).
After using it during my two-week trip across Japan—from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and even up north to Nikko—I'm convinced it's one of the best travel investments you can make.
In this post, I'll share my personal experience with the JR Pass, explain how it works, and give tips for maximizing its value—especially if you're visiting from Europe.
What is the JR Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass is a special discounted rail pass exclusively for foreign tourists. It gives you unlimited travel on almost all Japan Railways (JR) trains, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains), for a fixed price and period (7, 14, or 21 days).
You can also use it on:
- JR local trains and express trains
- Some buses and ferries
- Narita Express & airport lines
Why I Chose the JR Pass for My Trip
As a European traveler who loves trains and efficient planning, the JR Pass was a no-brainer. Here's why:
- đźš„ I wanted to visit multiple cities without buying tickets every time
- 💸 I calculated that just two round trips (like Tokyo ⇄ Kyoto + Tokyo ⇄ Hiroshima) would already cost more than a 14-day pass
- 🧳 I appreciated the flexibility to change plans without penalties
- 🕰️ I could reserve seats for free, which was a big relief during peak times
How to Buy the JR Pass (And Why You Should Do It in Advance)
You can no longer buy the JR Pass at the same discounted rate inside Japan.
To get the best price, buy it online before your trip from an authorized seller.
đź’ˇ Recommended vendor:
👉 Order Your JR Pass Here (Affiliate Link)
You'll receive a voucher by mail, which you can exchange for the real pass at any major JR station once in Japan. Be sure to bring your passport!
My Travel Itinerary Using the JR Pass
Here's how I used my 14-day JR Pass:
| Day | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Narita Airport → Tokyo | Narita Express included |
| 2–4 | Tokyo sightseeing | JR Yamanote Line helpful |
| 5 | Tokyo → Kyoto | Shinkansen ride – smooth and scenic |
| 6–7 | Kyoto → Osaka (day trip) | Covered by JR |
| 8 | Kyoto → Hiroshima | Easy and fast with reserved seats |
| 9–10 | Hiroshima → Tokyo | Long ride but relaxing |
| 11–14 | Day trips from Tokyo | Used pass for Nikko, Kamakura |
By the end, I had saved over ¥20,000 (~€130) compared to individual tickets.
Seat Reservations – Easy and Worth It
One of the hidden perks of the JR Pass is free seat reservations.
I used them every time I traveled on the Shinkansen and even some express trains. During busy times (weekends, holidays), this saved me a lot of stress.
Just go to a JR ticket counter (called "Midori no Madoguchi") and show your pass. Staff will help you pick seats, times, and issue the ticket.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
While the JR Pass is amazing, here are a few caveats:
- ❌ It doesn't cover all bullet trains (e.g., Nozomi and Mizuho are excluded)
- đź—ľ Not all subways or private lines are included
- 🧾 You still need to carry the pass physically and show it at gates
Despite that, 95% of my travel was covered, and I barely paid for anything extra.
Is the JR Pass Worth It?
For most European travelers exploring more than one region of Japan, yes—absolutely.
It gives you:
- Predictable costs
- Unlimited flexibility
- High-speed comfort
- Stress-free planning
Final Thoughts
The JR Pass made my trip smooth, enjoyable, and budget-friendly. I highly recommend it to anyone coming to Japan from Europe—especially if you're planning to travel beyond Tokyo.
Where to Get Your JR Pass
🎟️ Get Your JR Pass – Best Price + Fast Delivery
Make sure to buy it before arriving in Japan—you'll save money and have peace of mind before your journey begins.