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    Best train apps to use with your JR Pass

    Pairing your JR Pass with the right route planner saves hours. These apps let you filter out non JR trains so every journey is covered by your pass.

    01

    Top route planners

    • Japan Travel by Navitime: filter for JR only and free seat reservations, English and 11 other languages.
    • Jorudan Norikae Annai: most detailed transfer info, with a JR Pass filter.
    • Google Maps: easiest for tourists, no JR only filter.
    • JR East Train Info: live shinkansen status across the east network.
    • Smart EX: reserve Tokaido and Sanyo shinkansen seats from your phone.
    02

    Useful supporting apps

    • Suica or Pasmo app for IC top up on iPhone.
    • Yurekuru Call for earthquake alerts.
    • Tabimori from JNTO for offline maps.
    • DeepL or Google Translate for menus and signs.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Which app filters for JR only routes?

    Japan Travel by Navitime and Jorudan both have a JR only or JR Pass filter.

    Is Hyperdia still available?

    No, Hyperdia retired in 2022. Navitime and Jorudan replaced it.

    Can I reserve seats from an app?

    Yes, Smart EX works for Tokaido and Sanyo. For other lines reserve in person or via the JR East web.

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