The JR East Pass is a great option for people wanting to explore this diverse country. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the majestic waterfalls in Aomori, Eastern Japan has it all.
Overview
The JR East Pass is only available to visitors to Japan staying for under 90 days.
The pass allows you to travel on unlimited trains (including the Shinkansen/bullet train) for up to any 5 flexible days over a 14 day period.
It is great value at just ¥22,000 for adults (12 years old and over) or ¥11,000 for children (6–11 years old).
The pass covers the entire JR East network, which stretches from Nagano all the way up to Aomori.
How to obtain a JR East Pass
There are 2 methods to get a pass, either online or an advanced payment through a travel agent outside of Japan.
Once ordered you can collect your pass at multiple collection points including Tokyo, Narita or Haneda Airports & Shinjuku station. See the full list here.
I picked up my pass from Tokyo station and the staff were very friendly. They take a copy of your passport and get you to fill out a few details before handing you your brand new pass.
Things you will need
- A non-Japanese passport with temporary visitor stamp is needed for collecting your pass.
- ¥22,000 Japanese Yen – the transaction is completed online in advance and you will receive an Exchange Order.
- Directions to a collection point, including Tokyo, Narita or Haneda Airports & Shinjuku. See the full list here.
When you have your pass, you are good to go, but do recommend the following items (as well as your pass) when travelling around Japan:
- Passport — may be required for identification when using the JR East Pass.
- Smartphone/tablet — allowing you to use Google Maps directions or check train times.
- Sufficient cash — many places outside the big cities do not take credit cards. Read more here.
Advice
Plan your route beforehand. If you don't have regular Internet access, remember that after you have loaded a Google Map, you no longer need access to the internet.
If you get lost, ask people for directions: generally people will try and help you. Station staff are also very helpful.
Make sure the routes you will be taking are within the JR East zone and research to ensure the places you are visiting will be open when you go.
Generally the trains have available seats outside of rush hour, but you can of course make seat reservations either at the station or online.
Areas to visit
Once you have your pass, it is time to explore Japan!
Do some research into the area you want to visit. Popular destinations include include Tokyo, Disneyland in Chiba, Sendai, Nagano & Kamakura.
The JR East pass is valid on JR East trains including the Shinkansen (Bullet trains), the Narita Express & the Tokyo Monorail. If you are interested in staying overnight at your destination then research accommodation prior to the visit and I would recommend to plan your trips in advanced.
- Tokyo to Sendai: 1 hour 30 min.
- Tokyo to Aomori: 3 hours 40 min.
- Tokyo to Niigata: 2 hours 10 min.
This pass is a great way to explore areas and you can save a lot of money, especially if doing various trips in one day. It may also be helpful to get travel to the airport. I went on around 15 trains all together with the JR East Pass and saved a lot of money. It is often easier and faster to get the Shinkansen trains instead of taking domestic flights and this pass allows you to do that.
For more information and to order your pass visit JR East or download this pamphlet for more information.
