JR Pass sample itinerary We’ve created several Japan Rail Pass sample itineraries to help you plan your travels!

Japan Rail Pass FAQ

What are Nozomi and Mizuho trains?

The main line which runs from Tokyo to Hakata in Kyushu is referred to as the JR Tokai Line and operates three classes of bullet train. These are divided up between the frequencies of stops at intervening stations. Nozomi stops at only the largest stations, Hikari at Large and medium and Kodama stops at all stations.

Although the JR Pass is not valid for the Nozomi and Mizuho trains, you can use the Hikari and Kodama, Sakura, and Tsubame trains without limitations.

The difference in journey time from Tokyo to Kyoto is about 20 minutes with the Nozomi taking 2 hours 20 minutes vs 2 hours 40 minutes for the Hikari. The Mizuho is a new limited-stop shinkansen service operating on the Kyuhu and Sanyo shinkansen lines between Shin-Ōsaka and Kagoshima in Japan as of March 12, 2011.

How to buy a Japan Rail Pass?

Buying and using a Japan Rail Pass is simple and easy. Order online via our website for our lowest price! Once you have completed your order with us, we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of your order. We then issue a Japan Rail Pass Exchange Voucher. We can either post the JR Pass exchange order to you, or you can collect from our London office.

Once we issue you with a JR Pass exchange order, it can be exchanged at any major Japan Rail stations for your official Japan Rail Pass, provided you have ‘visitor visa’ stamped in your passport. Depending on the ticket purchased, the JR pass holder can travel as much as they wish for 7, 14 or 21 consecutive days. Once you have exchanged your voucher for the actual JR pass, you can begin your unlimited and convenient rail travel across Japan with maximum flexibility!

Please be aware that JR Pass exchange orders are valid for 90 days from the date of issue, therefore we recommend you place your order no more than 90 days prior to your date of travel.

How can I see Mt.Fuji?

From the train: Ride the Tokaido Shinkansen (Bullet Train) between Tokyo and Osaka to see a fantastic view of Mt.Fuji. This high-speed train runs south of Mt.Fuji which allows passengers to view both the mountain and surrounding fields together.

If your train is departing from Tokyo Station, Mt.Fuji will appear on your right. The best views can be seen around 40 – 45 minutes into the journey near Shin-Fuji Station.

Are there English signs?

At major stations, especially larger ones, you will find information in English. Station names and stops are also translated so there's very little chance of missing your stop or taking the wrong direction. The announcements on the Shinkansen (Bullet Trains) will be in both Japanese and English.