How to Travel Japan by Train Without Whole JR Pass, Best Alternatives

[@KenshoQuest]

We appreciate the commissions we earn when you purchase through our affiliate links 💕Shinkansen tickets: geni.us/shinkansen Hokuriku Arch Pass: geni.us/hokurikuarchpass Tokyo Wide Pass: geni.us/tokyowidepass Kansai Wide Area Pass: geni.us/kansaiwideareapass

[@wlxgrf]

you deserve all the likes - and i mean ALL THE LIKES - for this informative video!!! Our heads were spinning from all the useless-to-vague misinformation flooding social media surrounding rail travel around Japan.

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it helped!

[@nobodynothing00000]

I made 3 Bullet Train Trips, green car reserved seat: Tokyo to Hiroshima, Hiroshima to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo and came in well under the pass threshold.

[@LOVEJESUS-mc3nk]

you used JR pass?

[@nobodynothing00000]

@@LOVEJESUS-mc3nk no I didn't need to buy one I only made 3 trips

[@yojimbo_2000]

Great vlog. We used the JR pass last year but now it is not worth the cost for us. We usually stay in a large city for 3-4 days and visit the surrounding area. JR pass only pays off if you take multiple long distance Shinkansen trips. The regional passes look like a great option.

[@liswong7787]

I have watched a lot of your videos and have got a digital SUICA card, UBIGI SIM card, apps you recommended, Japanese Translation, bought the Shinkansen tickets via Klooks and the JR websites, bought some merino wear. I am flying in a weeks time. The past 1 week has been intense with lots of planning and reading. Now I am ready! I am grateful to both of you for providing so much clear, simple yet detailed information on travelling to Japan. Purely important information that we need. Thank you very much. 🌻😊

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you so much for supporting our channel! Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@gunjangupta1759]

Thank you! Another very handy pass is JR Kansai- Hiroshima are pass for 17000 which also covers Hiroshima, Kyoto and Osaka

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing!

[@nvsteine300]

Aloha kensho quest, I recently came back from a two week trip from Japan. I planned my trip around your videos. It was a great help. Can’t wait for my next trip.

[@KenshoQuest]

Aloha and mahalo for letting us know you had a great trip!

[@eisenklad]

my plan for my trip is using combination of Narita Express and tokyo wide pass. i might not get the Tokyo wide pass, instead opting for tokyo 1 day passes for each day. (considerably way cheaper, 15,000yen vs 4,800yen for 3 days) my itinerary is day 1 Narita to Ofuna using the N'Ex, then using suica card from Ofuna to Gotemba. day 2 climbing mt fuji day 3 coming back down from fuji and head to kanagawa, using suica card. day 4-6, using tokyo pass to visit various places around tokyo and yokohama (might need a 1 day Yokohama-Minatomirai pass) day 7, using suica card to Odaiba during the day, evening i'll use the N'Ex return leg to reach a hotel right next Narita airport. day 8 is a super early flight out of narita i was leaning towards getting the Jr East pass and visiting Niigata for 1 day but i didnt want to repeat my 2019 trip of train rides for half the day. this time i'm taking it slowly.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing. I’m sure others will find this useful!

[@optom888]

Just recently discovered your channel. Love your well presented and useful advice on a myriad of topics. Would appreciate further info on the Tokyo Wide Pass. Keep up the great work😀

[@varshapawar7789]

Superb video. Very informative. Thank you so much for sharing such vital information. We are planning the trip in Nov '24. We wish to cover main places from Hokkaido (north) to Nagasaki (south) . Will try to fit the trip in 12/13 days. Please make a video on cheaper accommodation/ hotels or any other options.

[@chaikristinjournals]

Thank you!! I’m going first 2 weeks of March and this helps a lot!!!

[@nateshf9303]

“To buy or not to buy?” the JR Pass is now the #1 question for everyone traveler.

[@KenshoQuest]

This is a great question that does need some clarity. We will try to help with this in an up coming video :)

[@dean93arr]

The answer is never fix, tailor it to your trip.. for me 7 days trip to tokyo-fuji-osaka-nara-kyoto, all transport cost around ~23000 yen, with JR pass 50000yen and you still need to pay for transport that not cover in JR.. key point is do your research before going.. calculate total cost of your transport and decide which one is better.. nowadays you can get rough estimation of train/bus/taxi fare from google maps/ navitime apps.. you can benefit from JR pass if you travel far distance using shinkansen, back and forth.. for me 7days trip, JR is not worth it anymore..

[@LOVEJESUS-mc3nk]

so dont buy??

[@nateshf9303]

@@LOVEJESUS-mc3nk Since my wife and I are going to Hokkaido and then down to Kochi and Beppu Onsen via Kanazawa on a 20-day trip, the 14-day full JR pass is still worth it. If you are just doing the "golden route" (which we always avoid) then don't buy the 7day or 14-day pass. Hope this helps.

[@karencarvalho9265]

Always amazing tips from the channel. Thank you very much

[@riffgroove]

I was in Japan on a two-week trip this past December. We visited 6 different cities and used public transportation the entire time. The JR pass was invaluable.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing!

[@mazinalansari88]

What do you suggest? I am flying to Osaka. I will stay 2 weeks and. I planned to give a visit to 6 districts except Shikoku

[@riffgroove]

@@mazinalansari88 If you're only staying in Osaka, then I would just look at a regular city pass.

[@RG-vh6kg]

This is by far the most comprehensive video on the Pass system I have come across. Thank you for sharing it so systematically and saving me time and anxiety! I will definitely look into the affiliate links you've shared :)

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad to have helped! Is there a particular pass you are interested in?

[@alanauswild5862]

Thankyou both for your detailed information , well done ! first timers to Japan in early October .

[@KenshoQuest]

Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@dean93arr]

My 7days trip tokyo-fuji-osaka-nara-kyoto, transportation cost ~23000yen (including shinkansen/bus/taxi/trains).. JR pass is 50000yen, double the cost plus with JR pass i still need to pay for taxi/bus/train that not covered by JR.. so yeah for me its not worth the money anymore.. the important thing is do your research, calculate your estimated cost and compare, hope this clear up for those who still confuse whether to buy JR pass or not..

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing!

[@miduk8154]

😳 that's crazy.. would you mind sharing your itinerary for that 7day?

[@dean93arr]

@@miduk8154 sure, how can i share it? Through your email?

[@SKWEEZ123]

Hey would you mind sharing your itinary

[@ffyoshida7144]

This was super helpful, thank goodness for you both! I feel like you've held my hand since I started my Japan-booking journey a few short months ago...LOL Big mahalo guys, keep up the great work!

[@KenshoQuest]

Aloha, So glad it was helpful!

[@randallrowberry1205]

wow they really make it a whole other chore to plan all the individual trips. That adds a lot of stress if you don't have your trip details planned down to the day. Might as well get the JR

[@bordz68]

This video helps me a looooooooot! As budget traveller I needed this! You guys have no idea how you helped me on the other day is on my flight

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad to have helped!

[@bernardkersting1270]

I really appreciate your great channel. Very useful information and up to date which has been of great benefit in my planning to travel in Japan in April 2024.

[@KenshoQuest]

Great to hear! Thank you.

[@DM-dy6vn]

Been to Japan 10 times since 2014 before pandemics broke out. Have enjoyed the advantages of the JR-pass a lot. また行くつもりはね～、もう終わりだ

[@Hoakaloa]

I'm thinking of a Japan vacation in 2026. I'm sure things will change a bit by then; maybe an IC option for Android phones? Thank you so much for your extremely clear and helpful videos. I grew up in California and have lived in Hawaii now for 22 years so...trains? The options in Japan are spectacular!

[@KenshoQuest]

We’re California transplants who lived in Hawaii! Train transportation in Japan is amazing! I’ve ridden Amtrak trains in California, but it isn’t something I’d necessarily recommend. I’m happy to ride Japan trains every day. 🌸 Heidi

[@seagull7853]

Great video! simple to understand, much better than staring at websites comparing and reading changes made 1 by 1.

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it was helpful!

[@earlysda]

JR Seishun 18 ticket is the best way to see Japan slowly.

[@cryptonist91]

Thank you very much for the video! Really feeling illuminated hahah, had a alot of questions regarding regional JR passes, especially Hokuriku. Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Here’s our video about the Hokuriku Arch Pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJClnYl8Ys2Srs0si=8baqzedsDNJ9tPsw

[@talialeon8943]

Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you!

[@agustinacarrizo9535]

Thank you for your videos, they are always so clear!

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad you think so!

[@oetamis]

Hi! So much Information, thank you! What would you use for following itinerary (21 days): Tokyo Osaka Kyoto Nara Kobe (maybe we‘ll stay only in kyoto and do day trips) Fuji Hiroshima One way flight but only once would be fine too I‘m just dont know which regional jr passes I could combine

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi since you are traveling for 21 days your itinerary my not require any pass unless you will be in an area for between 5-7 days where the transportation will cover. The one that might work for you is the Kansai Hiroshima pass which is valid for 5 days and covers a lot of transport in the Kyoto/Osaka to Kobe, Nara area as well as to Hiroshima. If you will be in Kansai area for more days the you might combine with the Kansai ARea pass.

[@oetamis]

@@KenshoQuest thank you very much!

[@gwarlow]

0:27 Great information. Thanks for sharing!

[@nightwing4k]

Thankyou soo much i was almost going to buy the jr pass but i just want trains from nrita to tokyo and Tokyo to kyoto to osaka the arch pass saves me money in a lot of different ways thanks again

[@Kirra_zip]

Terima kasih banyak informasi nya sangat membantu, ini informasi yg saya cari terutama untuk saya yg berencana untuk mengunjungi Tokyo, five Fuji lake, enoshima dan kamakura musim dingin nanti, dan subtitle nya sangat membantu

[@evangelineaguirre2004]

Thank you. You are always very informative and helpful in many ways regarding Japan travels.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for the kind words. 💕

[@m10stuff]

Thank you so much for your videos. We are heading home from Tokyo now. You helped us a lot. It was a great trip!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for letting us know! Glad to hear that you enjoyed Japan!

[@azeemsiddiqui4764]

I plan to go to Japan around Dec 2025 and visit all the irl equivalent places to Pokemon Red cities. Thankfully I can just get a JR East pass.

[@Oceanlover99]

What an awesome informative channel, planing our first Japan family holiday, so helpful thank you 🙏🏼

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Glad to have helped.

[@hwangjoanne]

This is such an amazing video. It's informative, concise, and easy to follow. Thank you so much!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Will you visit Japan soon?

[@hwangjoanne]

@@KenshoQuest I plan to visit this July. I am educating myself about the transportation options and was so glad to have stumbled upon your video!

[@niicegirld]

The most simple and well explained video! Thank you!!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Are you visiting Japan soon?

[@alicegar-ts5tm]

Great video ❤ Thanks for clarifying so many things. Trying to find info on transportation is wild.

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! We have lots of videos here on Kensho Quest about Japan transportation.

[@xGoldenArrow]

I hear Klook upcharges and that it's better to buy train tickets and shinkansen tickets at the train station

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, you are correct. It's about 10% surcharge. this is why they offer some coupons to help sweeten the deal. they change, so you can see them during the checkout process to see if it is worth it for you. the main reason to buy from Klook is the convenience. they also have a coupon right now: SAVE $10, limited time only code: SKS100FF

[@macynthiafernandez7196]

Very helpful! Thank you❤

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! We also made a video on How to Plan a Trip to Japan: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6DCgXl9bd2KjbMsi=B-iby2xmlcTMl8_S

[@Navigator200]

Love your videos on these topics. The only critique I have is I think it would benefit the viewers if you gave the price in Yen, and dollars when discussing train cost.

[@KenshoQuest]

Noted. We usually don't convert prices to USD, as the exchange rate is constantly fluctuating. If we say the price converted to USD in a video today, it might be different by the time someone watches the video a month later. Plus it's good to start getting practice doing the conversions oneself, before arriving in Japan. 🌸 Heidi

[@killerangel-qy9ug]

I absolutely love you guy's videos. Theyve helped me so much with the information ive been looking for. So blessed that i found this page. Thank you guys so much. Excited for the next video.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks!

[@abhimanyubhardwaj8892]

After listening to this video, I have cancelled my trip to japan and have developed love for my Australia 😊

[@camilogonzalez7770]

Once again, thank you very much for the very useful and instructional videos. I am spending 28 days in Japan , tokyo, takayama, kanasawa, hiroshima, kytoto, suszuka area (F1) and back to tokyo. Still figuring out if it is worth it (JR Pass) adn where else to go..

[@vivianwong56]

Thanks for the info and I appreciate it!

[@erinbiskup9283]

So glad I found your channel! Such great information! Thank you!

[@jerryitaly3579]

Very good information!!

[@pianolove237]

thank you for the great video! will you guys be covering the new takayama-hokuriku pass as well? since many nature places you showed in this video can be reached with this pass!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@krystalvm2601]

TY so much. Your contents are so helpful very detailed.

[@KenshoQuest]

You are so welcome!

[@carloscanizares101]

Really practical information as always. Thanks so much! The non-JR passes are intriguing and no channel has mentioned it (as far as I’m aware) in my feed. Question: is the Tokyo wide pass the one where you get off/on at Otsuki station? Or is that if you took the Japan wide JRP?

[@KenshoQuest]

It’s the Whole Japan Rail Pass that ends at Otsuki Station, since that’s as far as the JR line goes. The Tokyo Wide Pass goes all the way to Kawaguchiko Station, as it includes the Fujikyu Railway. 🌸 Heidi

[@JUANORQUIO]

That's Awesome! Cheers for more incredible and lovely globetrotting adventures!

[@KenshoQuest]

Cheers!

[@Thiagolt]

Great information. I will arrive in Japan in the city of Osaka. I plan to take these trips: *Osaka -> Kyoto (3x) *Kyoto -> Osaka (3x) *Osaka -> Nara *Nara -> Osaka *Osaka -> Hiroshima *Hiroshima -> Osaka *Osaka - Nagoya *Nagoya -> Osaka *Osaka -> Kobe -> Himeji *Himeji -> Osaka Osaka -> Tokyo Tokyo -> Yokohama Yokohama -> Tokyo I will return to my country from Tokyo. Is it worth buying the JrPass?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. The JR Pass might be worth it for your trip. It partially depends how long your trip is. The JR Pass is available for 7, 14, or 21 days. We explain how to calculate whether the JR Pass is worth it in our recent video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTVi6OMjq1gotUsi=JcUvPauhvVTZR1r9

[@Thiagolt]

@@KenshoQuest thank you

[@Arun-s2q7b]

Great video, I really enjoy the way you both present in an easy to understand way. Could I ask a question? For someone arriving in Osaka, visiting Hiroshima, Wakayama, Nara (days 1-7) Kyoto (days 7-11), Kanazawa, Takayama (days 11-14) and then Tokyo (4days) over 20 days, what would you recommend

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, so glad to know the video is easy to understand. For your trip you might consider the kansai Hiroshima pass then once you head north to Kanazawa use the hokuriku arch pass to Tokyo and continue using it in Tokyo. For the remaining times you can use an ICOCA card which you can get on arrival in Osaka.

[@TheFreedom4you]

Where are these “golden Route pass tickets” sold? The arch Pass requires transfers to slow trains. And requiring you to go all the way north, adding hours to your journey

[@KenshoQuest]

Here's our Guide to the Hokuriku Arch Pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJClnYl8Ys2Srs0 The pass can be purchased from JR www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/hokuriku-arch-pass/ or Klook. The Hokuriku Arch Pass does requiring traveling in a specific arched route on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and Thunderbird Limited Express train. The only other pass that covers both Tokyo and Kyoto is the Whole Japan Rail Pass.

[@sherimorenbest1413]

Thank you so much

[@Nisie6]

Hello! Great information, but still have questions. What would you recommend for this itinerary: Fly in: Tokyo (Mt. Fuji-day trip) 7 days, Kyoto 3 days, Osaka (1 day trip to Kurashiki, Hemeji Castle) 3 days, Hiroshima 1 day, Fly out: Osaka. Thanks for any suggestions.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. I would recommend using an IC card to pay for transportation within Tokyo. We have a separate video on how to get to Mt Fuji: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ammVaX1vhNmBn7s Then you can use a single-journey Shinkansen train ticket to get from Tokyo to Kyoto. Here's our video on how to buy one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKiwfHhppdJ1hpY Then you may be interested in the Sanyo-San'in area pass for 7 days that you are in the Kansai and Hiroshima area. Here's our affiliate link for that regional pass: geni.us/sanyosaninpass 🌸 Heidi

[@Nisie6]

@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the information.

[@darrylk808]

Good info but Japan has too many rules and doesn't fit with our style of travel. So many rules/restrictions in Japan.😁 Now we just buy one-way tickets as we need. We usually fly into one city and fly out another about a month later and just wing it in between.

[@KenshoQuest]

Aloha, that's cause you are a pro ;) How is Malaysia 🤙🏼 We are freezing in Hokkaido 🥶

[@darrylk808]

@KenshoQuest still in CA, heading to KL Thursday, then on to Penang. We may be in trouble as we arrive on CNY and haven't booked a bus or train yet. Oh well, it's all about flexibility. The cold in Hokkaido is why we decided to go south.😁 We are such light weights.😂 We will just watch your video on the snow festival from warm Malaysia.🥵

[@KenshoQuest]

@@darrylk808 Ah man, it was complete madness with all the CNY preparations going on. You might need to hire a grab to Penang. A friend had to do that last year and he said it was reasonable!

[@darrylk808]

@@KenshoQuest we actually have hired a car/driver in the past. Never did grab long distance. I'll have to look into it.

[@EvaExplores-x2x]

with the price hike, buy Suica card for local transportation, buy Shinkansen tickets separately.

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes!

[@sagarchopra7159]

What pass would you recommend for Osaka-Kyoto-Kanazawa-Okayama-Kyoto-Tokyo-Yokohama-Fuji-Nikko-Tokyo All this is spread over 9 days..thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

If you can get all your travel within 7-days then the whole JR Pass might be worth it for you. Otherwise, you may not need a pass, just IC card and purchasing individual shinkansen tickets.

[@ukgladiatorsfan]

I’m in Japan currently I ended up buying a JR west Hiroshima pass which ended up being much cheaper

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing!

[@mooman547]

Thanks so much!

[@ramonamacabugao4836]

You guys are the best helping us save and enjoy. Thank you. Is there a pass that includes ferry rides to Busan? We are going next month to Fukuoka - is Aomori area included in the regional pass too ? Thank you guys! Last year you guys helped me and my family to enjoy the Sanrio Shinkansen ride as I followed your instructions. Thanks a lot of that!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. We don't know of a pass that includes ferry rides to Busan. There also isn't a regional pass that includes both Fukuoka ( in southern Japan ) and Aomori ( at the northern tip of Honshu Island ). Those are both covered by the Whole Japan Rail Pass. 🌸 Heidi

[@jefuryo]

I think the only time I would not buy the JR PASS is if the alternative is not complicated

[@Fedelujo]

I will go to Kyushu next october so I'm thinking about purchasing all kyushu jr pass. But I think it won't last for the entire time I'll spend there because I will stay 13 days. What do you think?

[@KenshoQuest]

HI, we recommend using the pass during your most heavy transit days of long distance. This way you will get the most value out of the pass. Probably the 7 day will serve you best. So activate your pass on the day you start doing a lot of travel. While 7 is not quite enough an IC card will help with the rest of your travel. You could also consider getting a 7 and maybe a 3 day one as well...

[@adinaross2875]

traveling in October with my husband. Not sure if we should buy Shikosen separately from our Hokkaido Pass or just get a JRPass. We are flying into Haneda and leaving immediately to Hakodate and Sapporo for one week.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. Will you take a Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate Hokuto? That alone costs around 22,380 Yen per person. If you will take the bullet train from Tokyo up to Hokkaido, travel around Hokkaido by train, and then take the bullet train back to Tokyo, it would be worth getting the Whole Japan Rail Pass. Here's our affiliate link: geni.us/wholejrpass If you will fly from Tokyo to Sapporo and back to Tokyo, then you may want to get a rail pass to use only in Hokkaido. There are a couple different options, including the Sapporo Furano Area Pass and the Hokkaido Rail Pass. Here are the various train passes available for Hokkaido: www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/ticket/index.html

[@nateshf9303]

My wife and I were just in Japan for 2O full days. Of those 20, we had a 14-day pass that we used to go to Sapporo, Shiobara, Beppu, and Kurobe. Sapporo > Beppu one way alone would’ve cost $230USD.

[@KenshoQuest]

Sounds like an awesome trip and a perfect example of when the JR Pass is still financially worth it. Thanks for sharing :)

[@nishadjan]

This was awesome

[@ellona3645]

Is the JR pass worth it if I'm going from Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, return Kyoto, Osaka, return Kyoto, Himeji, return Kyoto, Magome, Mt.Fuji, then straight back to Tokyo? 😅 If anyone has a better recommendation please let me know. Thank you!!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. In our most recent video we showed how to use the JR Fare Calculator to add up your route and see if the JR Pass is worth it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTVi6OMjq1gotUsi=8ff6JwOHJ8Dz5ox1 Keep in mind that the JR Pass will not take you all the way to Mt. Fuji. Here’s our video on how to get to Mt Fuji: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ammVaX1vhNmBn7ssi=LvvifFJyzzas9A77

[@19WILLIAMSON77]

what is the best option if we only visit tokyo (3 days) osaka (3days) and kyoto (5days), then we move back to tokyo for our flight back

[@KenshoQuest]

In that case, I would just buy single journey Shinkansen train tickets. Here’s our video explaining how to do that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKiwfHhppdJ1hpYsi=JnKSW3XvswBBK6-t

[@ExploreMore-Travel]

niceee video

[@ramonahockett3549]

So grateful for all your videos. There is so much planning, I'm overwhelmed. Onegaishimasu, do you have a best recommendation for a pass if I am traveling from Narita to Kyoto, Kyoto to Hiroshima, and Hiroshima to Tokyo? Arigato gozaimasu.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. How many days will you spend in Japan? If you will cover all the way from Tokyo to Hiroshima and back to Tokyo within 7 days, it would be worth getting the Whole Japan Rail Pass. Here's our video on how to calculate whether the JR Pass is worth it for your itinerary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTVi6OMjq1gotU

[@davidrona]

I plan to visit tokyo, kanazawa , kyoto, osaka and not sure if i should take the train or fly back to tokyo to catch my return flight. i def wanna take the shinkansen but don't wanna pay the big rates..also wanna check out the Spacia X while there... i heard i can connect my suica ( IC) local train card to a JR pass to get a one way discount on shinkansen... great video..learning about that golden line on your video

[@TheJayCruise]

Going Kyoto -> Himeji -> Hiroshima -> Osaka, I think Kansai - Hiroshima Area Pass the correct pass.

[@KenshoQuest]

HI, yes this is the correct pass but you might want to use the JR calculator to see if it will be cost effective for your itinerary.

[@jd5787]

Very informative thanks! Any guide/suggestions on what is beta to see and do in kansai and Tokyo? It's overwhelming 😁 Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, so glad it is helpful! As for what is better to see and do that depends on your interests. But in general if you want to see ancient Japan with temples and traditional culture then go to Kansai area, especially Kyoto. But Osaka will have modern Japan so this is always a good choice. If you want to see hi-tech Japan then Tokyo is an amazing and gigantic place where you can spend many months and still not see it all.

[@sherimorenbest1413]

Fly to Sapporo on September 28th, then a 7-day tour around Hokkaido. After that, travel to Osaka, Tokyo, and Nara for another 7 days. Return home from Tokyo airport on the 11th. This makes for a total of 14 days in Japan. Which type of JR PASS and regional passes would be most suitable for this itinerary? Thank you.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, please check out the Hokkaido Rail Pass: www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/ticket/railpass/index.html#hrp Then once on your day you will travel to Osaka, use the 7- day Whole JR Pass. This should cover going to Osaka Nara and everywhere in between before you return to Tokyo. Just make sure you get back to Tokyo within the 7 day validity of your pass.

[@TitinSumiyati-ql6ty]

Hi, wondering if you have info on how to book the reserve seat for the hello kitty shinkansen using smart ex app accompanied with the kansai wide regional pass please? Fyi we are two adults, one child and one infant planning on traveling this September, many thanks

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, if you have the Kansai Wide Pass then you don't need the Smart EX App. Instead, if you want to make reservations you will do that the JR reserved ticket machine or the JR ticket office. If you don't have the pass then you can book this on Smart Ex. It probably won't be listed as the Hello Kitty Shinkansen. See below for more train info. Note, the Hello Kitty Shinkansen only leaves Shin-Osaka Station once a day at 11:37 am. The train is the Kodama 849. Please see the official website for more accurate information as on some days it does not run. www.jr-hellokittyshinkansen.jp/en/

[@melaniesoohoo6510]

Great video! Thank you! Does the Sanyo San'in pass cover fare from Hakata to Kyoto? Also can I use this pass on the Nozomi train? Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes it does cover from Hakata to Kyoto, though it does not cover riding the Tokaido Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto. but you can take other trains that are covered. The Nozomi is not included.

[@melaniesoohoo6510]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you for your help!! Take care!!

[@lincolnbaker7710]

Hey guys amazing video as always! Do you know if it’s possible to get the arch pass for 14 days? Thanks for all your hard work!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks! You could get two of the 7-day Hokuriku Arch Pass to use back to back, as long as the dates don’t overlap. That would cost 60,000 Yen per person (2x 30,000 Yen). What we often do is get a pass that only covers part of our trip and buy individual tickets or use an IC card for the times when we aren’t moving quickly from city to city. 🌸 Heidi

[@kyliemiriam]

Hi, thanks for the video. Can I use ICOCA card to go to Uji/Nara from Kyoto by JR trains?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, absolutely! ICOCA is valid throughout most of Japan.

[@FaroukNasri]

I have a questrion: with the Hokuriku Arch Pass, can we travel in the city of Tokyo illimited? (yamanote line, shinjukiku, shibuya ?...)

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. Is your question whether the Hokuriku Arch Pass allows unlimited rides in Tokyo? Yes, you can use it unlimited times on the specific lines in Tokyo that are covered by the pass. Please see the map on this website (scroll down to Service Zones): www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/

[@madibanda2497]

hello! thank you for this video. I would like to ask, I am planning to go to Osaka -Hiroshima- Fukuoka. What is the best JR or pass that I should purchase? 1.Setouchi Area Pass 2.Sanyo-San'in Area Pass thank you❤

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi for going from Osaka to Fukuoka both the Setouchi and Sanyo San'in will cover your area. So I think it will depend if you plan to stop off in other areas that are covered separately by each. Here are the direct links: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/sanyo_sanin/ www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/setouchi/

[@madibanda2497]

@@KenshoQuest thank you sooo much! this will help alot🥰

[@eugea8938]

Hi I’m starting my trip from Fukuoka as I’m travelling from South Korea. The trip is from 01/12-12/12 I’d like to visit Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fuji and finish in Tokyo. What passes would you recommend? Thank you so much!!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. You might want to consider the Whole Japan Rail Pass. It is available as 7, 14, or 21 days. You would only need it for the days that you will ride Shinkansen bullet trains, so it doesn't need to cover your entire time in Japan. Here's our video showing how to calculate whether the JR Pass is worth it for your trip: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTVi6OMjq1gotU And here is the fare calculator website: kenshoquest.com/recommends/jrpass-fare-calculator/

[@gurunggorkhali9492]

Hi, just wanted to know that can I take shinkansen train from Tokyo to Osaka and get the Kansai Wide area pass to visit Nara and Kyoto. My itenary is to travel to Osaka from Tokyo and 3 nights in Tokyo then visit Nara on the way to Kyoto and 4 nights in Kyoto and from there take Shinkansen train to Tokyo. Thank you

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes, the Kansai Wide Pass will cover visiting Nara as well as Kyoto and many other nearby places. Just be sure that you will use enough of it to get full value out of it.

[@interiordesigner-]

Hello! I appreciate your valuable informations. Great vlog. My 7days trip tokyo-kyoto-tokyo. I want to visit Tokyo and Kyoto completely. Is ıt good for me to buy a hokoriku arch pass?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, while the Hokuriku Arch Pass will work for your itinerary, the point of this pass is to spend time in the Hokuriku Region. So if you don't plan to stop in places like Kanazawa or Fukui, it may not be worth it since it takes longer to go from Tokyo to Kyoto.

[@RyokanDaigu]

Question about JR-West All Area Pass: Do it include the shinkansen from Tokyo to Toyama? According to Navitime Japan Travel App, it does. But this seems to be wrong according to the JR-West All Area Pass coverage map on Klook. I am confused...

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. The JR-West All Area Pass does not include trains from Tokyo to Toyama. It does not include the Tokyo area at all. Here is the coverage map and info: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/all/ When I checked on the Navitime App it showed that route being covered by "Japan Rail Pass" meaning the Whole Japan Rail Pass, which is different from the JR-West All Area Pass.

[@SamSung-ew3dk]

Thanks for all of your helpful videos. Do you know if I would be able to use credit card to purchase the Kansai Hiroshima Area pass in-person at the Shin Osaka ticket office?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. I believe the Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass can be purchased two ways: from a travel agent, or online from JR West. I don't think it is sold in-person at train ticket offices. JR has been phasing out being able to purchase regional passes in person. Here's the website with detail on how to purchase: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/kansai_hiroshima/#purchasing

[@SamSung-ew3dk]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you. I’ve arrived in Japan now and can confirm that we are able to purchase the JR West Hiroshima Kansai Area 5-day pass in-person at the Tourist Information Office next to the Shinkansen Ticket Office at Shin Osaka station. They just need to see your passport to confirm that you are a foreign visitor and purchase can be made with credit card. Please note that in-person purchases can only be made between the hours of 09:00 - 17:00 so keep this in mind if you need to purchase and immediately use your pass before 09:00. This time window is only applicable for in-person pass purchases (as the office opens before 09:00 and closes at 22:00 on weekdays for other services, but in-person purchases of passes is limited to the aforementioned time window.) Just want to pass this on as I have gotten so many good tips on your channel to help with our trip planning to Japan, and it’s happening now with no hitch thanks to you.

[@KenshoQuest]

@@SamSung-ew3dk Thanks for the update! Good to know.

[@msong8243]

Thank you so much for your informative video. We will be travelling to Tokyo to Hiroshima, Horishima to Osaka (stay for 7 nights to explore the surrounding area including kyoto ), and then Osaka to Tokyo, what would be the best pass to buy for this itinerary? We have excluded the JR pass given its price. Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, you might consider purchasing individual shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Hiroshima, then use the Kansai Hiroshima area pass, though only 5 days so get an IC card as well to help with local transportation in the Osaka/Kyoto area. Then return from Osaka to Tokyo via purchasing another single ticket on the Tokaido shinkansen.

[@RealityHurts923]

Can someone clarify please? So JR pass only covers the bullet trains to other cities and not travel within Tokyo itself like subways and busses correct? Also after Tokyo, was planning to stay in Osaka and day trip from there to Hiroshima and Kyoto. I’m sure bullet train for each and back to Osaka. Would JR pass be worth it for that? Does price depend on distance?

[@normangee7896]

it covers subways that are part of the JR system. Certain subways are run by JR, but there are many other company lines.

[@nateshf9303]

Use your JR Pass wisely for long distances only. Osaka to Hiroshima is about 2 hours one way, not a day trip. I definitely would not go back n forth, big waste of time. Also, don’t use your JR Pass to get around Tokyo. Another waste.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. The Whole Japan Rail Pass includes both bullet trains as well as local JR trains and buses (not highway buses), as well as the Miyajima Ferry. It does not cover non-JR subways. We go over exactly what is included in our video with Pro Tips for Using the JR Pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKq1iKCMr8d0oLM From Osaka you could use the Sanyo-San’in Rail Pass to visit Hiroshima and Kyoto: geni.us/sanyosaninpass (affiliate link) Although you'd probably want at least a day each for Hiroshima and Kyoto. 🌸 Heidi

[@RealityHurts923]

@@nateshf9303Thanks for the info! We really wanted to minimize hotel changes and dealing with luggage so was hoping to stay in Osaka and do 1 day trip to Hiroshima and 1 separate whole day trip to Kyoto. As for Hiroshima, we don’t plan to do Miyajima, at least not this time. Plan was to head out early morning, take in what we can and head back up to Kobe by dinner time. Would the JR be useful for this? Just starting to seem to need all these passes 😅

[@nateshf9303]

@@RealityHurts923 I get it now. Peace Memorial is a 35- mins walk from Hiroshima Station so it’s totally doable. Look into the 7-days Kansai Wide Pass ($81USD). If you only have one day in Kyoto, then head to Sanjo and Gion areas. (My wife and I always stay in Sanjo by the river.) Also keep in mind Shin-Kobe and Kobe-Sannomiya Station are two different places. Enjoy!

[@willujames4989]

I know you can use cash to reload suica and on iPhone, reload with credit. Are there any locations in Tokyo to reload with credit card?

[@KenshoQuest]

We far as we know, plastic IC cards can only be reloaded with cash.

[@mooman547]

This will be our first trip to Japan and we were wondering if you might suggest an amount to put on our Icoca card? We will be using public transport exclusively for about 6 days. Thanks in advance for your help!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. You don’t need to put the whole amount on your IC card at once. It’s easy to recharge when needed. I like to start with 4,000 to 6,000 Yen. I don’t like to put too much, in case the card gets lost. 🌸 Heidi

[@gindavid9424]

Thank you for all the support. We love your channel! But may i ask, what is the better or/ best option for transpo to do, card wise, Will be staying in tokyo dec20-26, osaka dec26-30, tokyo30-jan3

[@KenshoQuest]

I'd opt for a SUICA card. It should work fine in Osaka as well.

[@ayman0579]

Which best choice of regional JR pass if I visiting between Chiba, Saitama, Tokyo and Yokohama for 7 days? And which airport is better?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, depending on how much traveling you will be doing, first you will need an IC Card, a Welcome SUICA or PASMO Passport can be purchased at both airports near Tokyo. If you need a pass then the Tokyo Wide Pass will work for part of your journey as it is only valid for 3 days.

[@qhadj5387]

This is a very comprehensive summary. Thank you for sharing. I was wondering, a family, do we share one IC card, or each member need to have their own? Are the apps available for android?

[@KenshoQuest]

Each person needs to have their own IC card to use it for transportation. The digital IC cards are only available on Android phones that were purchased in Japan. We talked more about IC cards in our Tips for First Time Visitors video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gITVoq18ZdmGotUsi=ftOOQ_qVBJDT_BgW

[@minnienaveen]

Thank you this was helpful. For travelers from India we don’t have Apple Pay option so even though we have an iPhone we cannot get the online version of suica card.

[@KenshoQuest]

We've heard this from a few people now. Sorry about this. At least you still can get a physical welcome suica or Pasmo passport at the airport.

[@JeanC...]

Thank you for such an informative video. My sister and I will be traveling to Japan in September for 2 weeks. The first week, we'll stay in the Shinjuku area (visit Tokyo, Mt. Fuji and possibly the Ghibli Park) and then we'll go to Kyoto (2 days), Hiroshima (1 day), and Osaka (1 day) to finally fly back home from Narita Airport. Would you recommend that I buy the JR Pass or rather purchase the individual Shinkansen tickets plus the IC card?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. I would get an IC card for the time you spend in Tokyo. The 7-day Whole Japan Rail Pass would be a good option to cover the days you travel from Tokyo to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Osaka, and back to Tokyo. Here's our video comparing the cost of buying individual Shinkansen tickets vs the JR pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTVi6OMjq1gotU

[@uspopo]

Thank you for the useful info. I'm interested in the Hokuriku Arch Pass. I can begin my train journey in Osaka, correct?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, you can start from Osaka. Here’s our Guide to the Hokuriku Arch Pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJClnYl8Ys2Srs0si=H7rD2xYFmUQbIlJK

[@gracecapati4573]

Hi, what value for money would you advise for us to take with our itinerary hakone->hiroshima->miyajima->osaka.This is the leg of our trip that I don't understand what is the best way to go about. Appreciate the advice. Thanks.

[@KenshoQuest]

HI, we don't quite understand your question. Do you mind rephrasing it?

[@gracecapati4573]

@@KenshoQuest Hi, I was looking for recommendation for the most economical pass combinations for our our trip. We are landing in Tokyo and will head out to Hakone->Hiroshima->Miyajima->OsakaKyoto. We plan to get the Hakone Free Pass but is also considering taking the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass. Is it more cost effective to do this or we just buy single tickets? Also, I do not understand if the trip from Hakone to Hiroshima will all be covered by the Kansai-Hiroshima pass? Or is there part of that stop that we have to buy single ticket? Thanks for your feedback.

[@BasicStealthcamping]

Thanks! I was looking at the pass and at individual ticket prices and thinking..why bother!

[@twinklestar7351]

Hi, I love your video, very informative. I have a question about JR Pass. Can I use it from Hakata Fukuoka to Osaka to Tokyo?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, you can. Here’s our separate video about the JR Pass: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIbRZoB5jqudhLcsi=qsJrhFPuPQ1wxf80