JR Pass: The Key to Exploring Japan Unlimited
Are you planning a vacation to Japan and looking to explore various cities with ease? The JR Pass is the perfect solution for you! JR Pass, short for Japan Rail Pass, is a train ticket that grants unlimited access to various transportation services operated by the Japan Railways Group throughout Japan.
JR Pass is specifically designed for foreign tourists visiting Japan. With the JR Pass, holders can enjoy train travel across the entire Japan Railways (JR) Group network, including Shinkansen (bullet trains) and local trains. This ticket is available in 7, 14, or 21-day durations and must be purchased before arriving in Japan, as it is not sold within the country.
Upon arriving in Japan, JR Pass holders need to exchange their Exchange Order for a physical ticket at JR stations before they can use it. You also need to request the activation of the ticket. The JR Pass offers the advantage of saving on train travel costs, especially if you plan to explore various cities or islands in Japan.
While it covers many train services, it's important to note that some exclusive trains like the Nozomi Shinkansen are not covered by the JR Pass. However, since the JR Pass covers almost all public transportation in Japan, you still benefit. With the JR Pass, you can travel comfortably and economically to various exciting destinations throughout Japan.
The JR Pass is available for foreign tourists who are outside of Japan. So, if you are a foreign national currently outside of Japan and wish to visit Japan, you are eligible to purchase the JR Pass. However, please note that Japanese citizens or residents of Japan with a Resident Card are not able to purchase the JR Pass.
Types of JR Pass
JR Pass is available in several types that can be tailored to your travel needs in Japan. Here are some popular types of JR Pass:
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All Japan JR Pass
The All Japan JR Pass is the perfect choice if you want to explore various cities across Japan. This pass provides unlimited access to the Japan Railways Group train network throughout the country. You can choose from 7, 14, or 21-day validity options, depending on the length of your trip. The All Japan JR Pass is also available in two class options: regular class and Green Car.
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Regional JR Pass
The Regional JR Pass is a suitable option if you want to focus on exploring a specific region in Japan, such as Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu. This pass provides unlimited access to train networks in a specific region for a designated validity period. The Regional JR Pass also comes in two class options: regular class and Green Car.
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Tokyo Wide JR Pass
The Tokyo Wide JR Pass is the right choice if you want to explore the areas around Tokyo, including Gunma, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa. This pass grants unlimited access to the train network in that area for a specified validity period. The Tokyo Wide JR Pass is also available in two class options: regular class and Green Car.
You might be wondering what the differences are between the types of available JR Passes. Each type of JR Pass has different coverage areas. The JR Pass Nationwide covers the entire Japan, while the JR Pass Regional covers specific regions in Japan. Meanwhile, the JR Pass Tokyo Wide covers the area around Tokyo. Additionally, there are differences in price and validity period for each JR Pass. You can choose the type of JR Pass that suits your travel destination.
Regional JR Pass Japan
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How to Get JR Pass
You can buy JR Pass in Indonesia. To purchase JR Pass, you can order it through official travel agents such as tiket.com. You can choose the activation date of the JR Pass according to your travel plans. Don't forget to fill in the required personal information when making the reservation. After the payment is completed, you will receive an Exchange Order which needs to be exchanged for a physical JR Pass in Japan.
You can also actually buy JR Pass in Japan. You can find it at various airports and ticket sales offices in Japan. However, it is more expensive. It's better to buy JR Pass in Indonesia and then exchange it for a physical ticket in Japan.
How to Exchange and Activate JR Pass
After arriving in Japan, you need to exchange the Exchange Order for the physical JR Pass at the designated exchange locations. You might wonder when should you exchange the Exchange Order for JR Pass. You can exchange the JR Pass Japan as soon as you arrive in Japan.
You need to present your passport and Exchange Order when exchanging for JR Pass. Additionally, you also have to select the activation date when exchanging the JR Pass. The activation date must be within 30 days from the date of exchange. Once activated, the JR Pass is only valid for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days, depending on the type of JR Pass you choose.
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How to Use JR Pass
Using JR Pass is very easy. You just need to show your JR Pass when boarding the train. There's no need to purchase tickets separately as the JR Pass already covers your travel expenses. However, please remember that JR Pass is only valid for trains operated by the Japan Railways Group. So, if you want to ride trains operated by other railway companies, you'll need to purchase separate tickets.
As previously mentioned, JR Pass Japan has a validity period. You might wonder what happens if the pass expires at midnight while I'm still on the train? Don't worry, the JR Pass will remain valid until the end of the journey because you boarded the train before midnight.
Where to Buy JR Pass Japan?
JR Pass can be purchased through official travel agents such as tiket.com. Make sure to buy JR Pass from a trusted source to ensure the authenticity and validity of the JR Pass you receive.