Alternative to the JR Pass: Regional passes

Discover Japan through the Japan Rail Pass

Japan is a destination rich in diversity, ranging from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido to the bustling shores of Kyushu. For travellers eager to discover different parts of the country, the Japan Rail Pass offers a convenient and economical solution. Before diving into the details of these passes, make sure all passengers meet the eligibility criteria.

The interest of the Regional Pass

Whether you are attracted to the ancestral temples of Kyoto, the magnificent landscapes of Hokkaido or the urban effervescence of Tokyo, there is a Regional Pass adapted to your travel desires. These passes offer several advantages:

1. Excellent value for money:Regional Passes offer an exceptional value for money if you plan to travel to a specific region of Japan. Whether you are interested in Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku, or other areas, there is a pass that meets your needs.
2. Flexibility over time:Depending on the pass you choose, different flexible days and options are available. This allows you to adjust your itinerary according to your travel preferences, whether you wish to explore a region in depth or make a quick getaway.
3. Reduced rates for children:Regional passes offer discounted rates for children aged 6 to 11, thus providing an economic solution for families travelling to Japan.
4. Exclusive for foreign tourists:It is important to note that Regional Passes are reserved exclusively for foreign tourists visiting Japan. Japanese nationals are not eligible for these offers.

The Best Way to Travel in Japan

To help you plan your itinerary, here is a list of available Regional Passes, each covering specific areas of the country:

1. Hokkaido:
   • Rail pass to Hokkaido
   • JR rail pass for the East-South region of Hokkaido
2. Central:
   • Tourist Pass for the Alpes-Takayama-Matsumoto region
   • Tourist mini-pass for Mount Fuji-Shizuoka
   • Takayama-Hokuriku region pass
   • Pass for the Hokuriku region
3. Shikoku:
   • Pass for the entire Shikoku region
4. Kyushu:
   • Pass for the entire Kyushu region
   • Northern Kyushu Pass
   • Pass for northern Kyushu
   • Pass for the South of Kyushu
5. East:
   • JR rail pass for the East-South region of Hokkaido
   • Pass for the region Osaka-Tokyo-Hokuriku
6. West:
   • Okama Hiroshima Yamaguchi region pass
   • Tourist Pass for Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Region
   • Pass for Hiroshima-Yamaguchi region
   • Pass for Kansai region
   • Pass for the whole Kansai region
   • Kansai Hiroshima region pass
   • Pass for Kansai-Hokuriku region
   • Pass for San’in-Okayama region
   • Pass for Sanyo-San’in region
   • Pass for northern Kyushu
   • Pass for the region of Setouchi

Practical information

The Pass(s) must be ordered online before departure.

The passes are cumulative so if you plan to visit different regions, you can choose to buy several. Check before buying several passes that theJR Passis no more economical solution)

A voucher will be sent directly to the buyer’s home.
The voucher must be exchanged for the Pass by going to a JR office (List of airport or station withdrawal points).

Passport will be requested to verify the identity and type of visa of the purchaser

The Pass must be used within three months of the date of purchase

The Pass is personal and not transferable. It is reserved for foreign travellers with a tourist visa

The type and duration of the Pass cannot be changed after purchase

The period of validity of the Pass is based on calendar days (from midnight to midnight). The pass is activated from its first use. If it is used for the first time at 14H day 1, it will expire at midnight day 7, not 14H day 8

If the passenger is still on the train after midnight on the day of the expiration of Pass it will remain valid until the end of the journey

Indicative rate

To help you make an informed decision, here are some indicative rates for some of the most popular Regional Passes:

• Hokkaido Rail Pass (5 days):127€
• JR for the East South Hokkaido Region (6 days):222€
• Osaka-Tokyo-Hokuriku (7 days):€155
• Mount Fuji-Shizuoka (3 days):41€
• Kansai Area Pass:
  • 1 day : 20€
  • 2 days : 33€
  • 3 days : 39€
  • 4 days : 46€

These rates give you an overview of the options available, but it is always recommended to check the discounted rates at the time of booking. Indicative pricing offers budgetary flexibility for travellers, allowing them to choose the pass that best corresponds to the duration and extent of their exploration. Plan wisely and make the most of your Japanese experience with the Japan Rail Pass.

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