01
Shinkansen bullet trains
- All Hikari, Sakura, Kodama, Tsubame, Yamabiko, Hayate and most other shinkansen.
- Nozomi and Mizuho require a small supplement that you can add at the counter.
Coverage explained
What does the JR Pass cover
The Japan Rail Pass is the most flexible way to travel across the country. Here is exactly which trains, buses and ferries it covers, and the few things it does not.
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Limited express, rapid and local trains
- All JR limited express trains nationwide.
- Rapid, commuter rapid and local JR services in every region.
- Includes the Yamanote loop in Tokyo and JR loop in Osaka.
03
Airport trains
- Narita Express from Narita to Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya and Yokohama.
- Haruka express from Kansai airport to Kyoto and Osaka.
- Rapid services between Haneda area and central Tokyo on JR lines.
04
Buses and ferries
- JR local bus lines in select regions.
- JR Miyajima ferry to Miyajima island near Hiroshima.
05
What the JR Pass does not cover
- Tokyo Metro and Toei subway in Tokyo.
- Private rail companies such as Odakyu, Kintetsu and Hankyu.
- Tokyo Monorail to Haneda is not included.
- Long distance highway buses operated by non JR companies.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Does the JR Pass cover the bullet train?
Yes. Almost every shinkansen is included. Nozomi and Mizuho require a small supplement, but Hikari and Sakura run the same routes with the pass.
Can I use the JR Pass on the Tokyo metro?
No. Tokyo Metro and Toei subway are separate companies. Use an IC card or a metro day pass.
Does the JR Pass cover Narita Express?
Yes, in both directions and including seat reservations.
Are local JR trains free with the pass?
Yes. The pass covers local, rapid and commuter JR trains nationwide.
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