On October 1st, 2023, new Japan Rail Pass conditions went into effect. On top of the existing advantages, such as local public transportation, some airport transfers*, free seat reservation and more, the new JR Pass will also include the currently inaccessible and much faster Nozomi & Mizuho Shinkansen bullet trains (with a small access fee). Some other changes are important to note.
– The Nozomi Shinkansen train rides on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, while the Mizuho bullet train rides on the Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Now available for booking with your JR Pass, these faster options are now accessible under the following fares, both for the Standard Cars and the Green Cars:
Tokyo > Kyoto: 4960 yenTokyo > Shin-Osaka: 4960 yenTokyo > Hiroshima: 6500 yenTokyo > Hakata: 8140 yenKyoto > Hiroshima: 4170 yenShin-Osaka > Hiroshima: 4170 yen
Find out more in our dedicated article on the Nozomi & Mizuho Shinkansen trains. Tickets for these trains can be purchased through machines at the station or at Midori no Madoguchi (JR Ticket Offices).
– After October 1st, it will not be possible to purchase your Japan Rail Pass in Japan (currently available at a higher price than online) anymore. The JR Pass will only be sold online, either through JR’s official website or through third-party resellers such as Japan Experience.
– However, Japanese nationals will not be able to buy the Japan Rail Pass online anymore. Japanese nationals matching the eligibility requirements for the JR Pass will have to purchase their JR Pass at a JR-appointed sales office or agent before their departure.
*Airport transfers included with the Japan Rail Pass:
Tokyo Haneda: Haneda MonorailTokyo Narita: Narita Express TrainKansai International Airport (Kyoto/Osaka): Haruka Express Train (to Kyoto & Osaka)
Keep reading below to find out how to make the most out of your JR Pass.
AloJapan.com