The JR Pass is a special pass available only to those entering Japan on a tourist visa. It allows for unlimited travel around Japan on JR lines usually at a price much less than purchasing individual tickets.
My family and I had a most rewarding two week trip to Japan. It was wonderful in all respects. Personally, I was taken by the warmth of the people and their quickness to help us -- foreigners who may have appeared even more confused than we were! All around delightful!