Japan Rail Pass

[katee283]

Hi
Am hoping someone can provide some clear advice about Japan Rail Passes. I will be in Tokyo for a few days and then going skiing in Hakuba. Is it worth getting a pass or should I just pay as I use the trains?
Many thanks!

 

[Hvr]

Hyperdia.com is the site to use to plan your travel around Japan. Enter in your starting station and destination. It will give you five options for the day and time you select. It also shows the fares, both the train fare and the cost of the seat.

Therefore if you plan your travel you can determine if you will get value from your JR pass.

When using this site 'uncheck' the Nozomi button, you cannot use them to travel with a JR Pass. Also be aware that not all train lines are run by JR. You will have to pay extra for those lines.

In Toyko itself the JR passs is valid on the train lines but not the subways.

Based on the travel you have listed I cannot see a JR pass as being of value to you.

 

[serfty]

We used these in April. Depending upon your travel they may be cost effective - they are not "Cheap" (nor is extensive Japan train travel "cheap").

E.g. At a minimum, if arriving and departing Tokyo (NRT) then travel to Osaka via N'EX and Hikari is a little less expensive on 7 day JR passes than just purchasing the separate tickets.

Here's some purchasing discussion: http://www.frequentflyer.com.au/community/playground/falling-help-14189-7.html#post228591
... and some other links.

• About JAPAN RAIL PASS
• JR-EAST - East Japan Railway Company
• Timetable | Central Japan Railway Company
• http://www.japanrailpass.net/images/application.pdf

 

[fortymilliondaggers]

If you're just heading up to Hakuba, it's the JR East pass that you want.

Buy it at the airport.

 

[katee283]

Thanks for all of your tips - I really appreciate it!