The JR Pass is now more expensive, is it still worth it?
The Whole Japan Japan Rail Pass and other regional JR Passes have all seen a significant increase in price on 1 October 2023.
However, along with the hike, they have introduced a range of expanded services to enhance your travel experience across Japan. This includes special discounts and benefits at many attractions across Japan.
Additionally, you'll also be able to use your JR Pass on the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen Bullet Trains, which were not previously covered. However, a supplemental fee will still be required.
That said, let's explore if the JR Pass is still worth your money for your next Japan trip!
What are the biggest changes to the Japan Rail Pass price?
Starting 1 October 2023, the prices of the Whole Japan JR Pass have risen by as much as 70%. Here's a quick summary of how much they cost now:
Type of JR Pass | New Price Starting 1 Oct 23 |
|---|---|
¥50,000 (Adult) | ¥25,000 (Child 6-11 years) | |
¥80,000 (Adult) | ¥40,000 (Child 6-11 years) | |
¥100,000 (Adult) | ¥50,000 (Child 6-11 years) | |
¥70,000 (Adult) | ¥35,000 (Child 6-11 years) | |
¥110,000 (Adult) | ¥55,000 (Child 6-11 years) | |
¥140,000 (Adult) | ¥70,000 (Child 6-11 years) |
When will the Japan Rail Pass price increase come into effect?
The price increase has kicked in since 1 October 2023.
Ride the famous Shinkansen trains that can take you from Tokyo station to Shin Osaka station in under three hours! Credits: @jayob27
What does a Whole Japan Rail Pass cover?
The JR Pass has made the lives of any foreign tourist visiting Japan much easier throughout the years. With this handy pass, you gain unlimited access to all the train lines operated by Japan Railways and other modes of transportation like the JR Bus, JR Ferry, and even monorails.
The Whole Japan JR Pass is the most popular as it covers all Japan Shinkansen lines, connecting them to all major cities in the country. The pass comes in 7, 14, or 21-day validity options and is the perfect way for travelers to freely explore Japan. You can also say sayonara to the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each train journey!
If you hope to traverse every nook and cranny of Japan, the Whole Japan Rail Pass is the perfect ticket to access nationwide adventure. However, if you prefer to tour specific regions, JR Regional Passes are the way to go!
Will the JR Pass still be worth it after the price increase?
Unsurprisingly, you'll have to think a little harder about whether a JR Pass will be good value for your trip even if you're planning to catch trains on the JR network.
If you're going by the usual "two destination" rule such as traveling between Tokyo and Osaka, a single-journey Shinkansen ticket will probably be better value for money. But a Japan Rail Pass will be worth it if you're planning to travel around many places in Japan.
Dive into Japan's history in Kyoto! Credits to Sorasak on Unsplash
Let's put this in action with two popular train itineraries below to illustrate if the JR Pass is worth the money:
1. The Golden Triangle: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Route | Price per Ticket | No. of Trips | Total Price | JR Pass Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Narita Express | ¥3,320 | 2 | ¥6,640 | ¥50,000 (7 days) |
Tokyo -> Osaka | ¥13,870 | 1 | ¥13,870 | |
Osaka -> Kyoto | ¥1,450 | 1 | ¥1,450 | |
Kyoto -> Tokyo | ¥13,320 | 1 | ¥13,320 | |
Within Tokyo (Yamanote Line) | ¥200 | 6 | ¥1,200 | |
Within Osaka (Loop Line) | ¥200 | 6 | ¥1,200 | |
Total | ¥37,680 (~25% Savings) | ¥50,000 | ||
2. Tokyo & Hokkaido
Route | Price per Ticket | No. of Trips | Total Price | JR Pass Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Narita Express | ¥3,320 | 2 | ¥6,640 | JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass: ¥35,000 (6 days) Whole Japan JR Pass: ¥50,000 (7 days) |
Tokyo <-> Hakodate | ¥23,630 | 2 | ¥47,260 | |
Hakodate <-> Sapporo | ¥9,220 | 2 | ¥18,440 | |
Within Tokyo (Yamanote Line) | ¥820 | 2 | ¥1,640 | |
¥10,000 | 1 | ¥10,000 | ||
Total | ¥83,980 (~68% more expensive) | ¥35,000 - ¥50,000 | ||
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How do I save money if I buy the JR Pass after the price increase?
As illustrated above, you can save up even after the price increase if you plan to travel long distances and cover many cities via train. The key is to ride the Shinkansen multiple times as the cost of individual tickets can add up.
What are the alternatives to a JR Pass?
Did you know you can still travel on trains in Japan even if you don't have a JR Pass?
As one of the most advanced rail networks in the world, taking the Shinkansen and Limited Express trains are fast, easy, and affordable ways to travel across Japan. If you want to travel from city to city on a Shinkansen without a JR Pass, you can always buy single-journey tickets.
These tickets can be booked easily at all JR train stations and also on Klook! All you have to do is whip out your phone and work magic on the Klook app! Book your tickets with a few easy taps, and you'll be issued a QR code. All you have to do is easily redeem your tickets at the JR station, and you're all set for an exciting ride!
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