Japan's railways offer punctuality, safety, and diversity, whether you're looking for bullet-fast transport between cities, inner-city transport, or a leisurely scenic and cultural journey through Japan. The network is vast and is one of the best ways to travel around the country.
Japan's railways offer punctuality, safety, and diversity, whether you're looking for bullet-fast transport between cities, inner-city transport, or a leisurely scenic and cultural journey through Japan. The network is vast and is one of the best ways to travel around the country.
The rail network is vast and includes subway systems, local inner-city services and of course, the renowned bullet-fast journeys between the major cities. The leading railway company, Japan Railways, has a well-organised and well–established railway network, including the Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train which connects most of the main cities throughout Japan.
Bullet Trains
A unique transport system used by locals and tourists alike. These high-speed futuristic trains are the pride and joy of Japan's transportation system, carrying hundreds of passengers at speeds of 200 miles per hour. The shinkansen (bullet) train network is wide and connects most of the major cities.
IC Cards
IC Cards are prepaid cards that offer the most convenient way to ride the regional public transport in Japan including the subway systems. IC Cards can be purchased at ticket machines with a refundable deposit. You can top up the cards at the machines as and when needed. To use, simply touch the card on the reader as you pass through the automatic gates. More information on IC cards will be provided in your travel documentation. *As of July 2024, in Tokyo and Kanto region, physical IC cards (Suica and Pasmo) are not on sale. Welcome Suica (valid for 28 days) can be purchased at Haneda airport.
Rail Tickets
Rail tickets for individual journeys can be purchased in advance through us or directly from the ticket machines in train stations. We recommend booking in advance so you can choose your train time that best suits your itinerary and you will be guaranteed to have a seat on your preferred departure. Pre-booking removes the worry of language barriers either at the ticket machine or with the ticket agents at the rail station. The trains are used by locals too, so certain departures can be busy so pre-booking ensures you can travel at your preferred time.
JR Pass
• Valid for 7, 14 or 21 days
• Allows unlimited travel on all Shinkansen (Bullet) Trains (except Nozomi and Mizuho), JR buses and JR Ferries. Some exceptions apply.
• Free seat reservations (bookable once pass is activated).
• You must purchase the pass within 3 months of your departure date (the pass has to be mailed to your home address so late bookings are not possible, the pass cannot be emailed).
• You receive an ‘Exchange order’, on arrival in Japan you head to a JR Exchange office to exchange your order for your actual JR Pass (this can only be done in person on arrival in Japan).
• You will be asked for your preferred start date for the pass.
• Once activated your pass is valid for the duration purchased.
• JR Passes are only available if you are a foreign tourist visiting Japan from under the entry status of "temporary visitor”.
• Choose between Ordinary Class or Green Class.
•Green (First Class) includes separate first class carriages, extra width seats, more privacy and more luggage space.
Note: There are also many Regional Rail Pass options that cover only certain areas or cities, we will be pleased to discuss all options with you when creating your itinerary.
