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    JR Pass vs individual tickets: which is cheaper?

    The price gap between a Japan Rail Pass and a stack of single tickets can be hundreds of euros, in either direction. Here are real numbers for the most common trips so you can decide.

    01

    How the JR Pass is priced

    7 / 14 / 21: Ordinary 53,000 / 84,000 / 105,000 JPY; Green 74,000 / 116,000 / 147,000 JPY. 6-11: Ordinary 27,000 / 42,000 / 53,000 JPY; Green 37,000 / 58,000 / 74,000 JPY.

    Order through GetJRPass for the official exchange voucher with worldwide shipping.

    02

    Classic itineraries compared

    • Tokyo, Kyoto, Tokyo: around 28,300 yen in single tickets vs 53,000 yen for a 7 day pass. Single tickets win.
    • Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Tokyo: around 53,000 yen in single tickets, approximately the same as a 53,000 yen ordinary 7 day pass.
    • Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Tokyo: around 58,000 yen vs 53,000 yen. Pass wins comfortably.
    • Tokyo, Sapporo and back: around 56,000 yen vs 53,000 yen. Pass wins.
    03

    When single tickets are better

    If you stay mostly in Tokyo or only visit two nearby cities, individual tickets work out cheaper. Regional passes like the Tokyo Wide Pass or Kansai Pass also beat the nationwide JR Pass for short stays.

    04

    The hidden value of the JR Pass

    • Unlimited JR local trains in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.
    • Narita Express and Haruka airport trains included.
    • Free seat reservations.
    • No queues at ticket machines.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Is the JR Pass cheaper than buying separately?

    Yes for multi city trips with at least one long shinkansen leg and a return. No for single city stays.

    Where do I order the JR Pass?

    From GetJRPass. We ship the official exchange voucher worldwide and provide step by step activation instructions.

    Can I combine a JR Pass with regional passes?

    Yes. Many travellers add a Hokkaido or Kyushu pass for a final week of regional travel.

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