Japan Rail Pass or Shinkansen Tickets: Which One is Better?
Pros and cons of the Japan Rail Pass vs Shinkansen Tickets
Traveling around Japan using the Shinkansen, or bullet train, offers a fast and convenient way to explore the country’s diverse regions. With its extensive network of high-speed rail lines, the Shinkansen allows travelers to easily access major cities and attractions across Japan. Whether you’re enjoying Tokyo’s modern skyline, exploring Kyoto’s ancient traditions, or admiring Hokkaido’s natural beauty, the Shinkansen provides a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation. With speeds reaching up to 320 km/h (200 mph), you can travel between destinations in no time, making the most of your time to discover Japan’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.
You may have heard of the famous Japan Rail Pass, and you might be wondering if it’s worth buying or if it’s better to purchase individual Shinkansen tickets. In the past, the Japan Rail Pass was one of the best purchases for travelers in Japan, and many people and blogs still hold onto that idea. But since 2023, prices have gone up, and now it’s not as cost-effective as it used to be.
When deciding between Shinkansen tickets and the Japan Rail Pass, it’s essential to consider your travel plans and preferences. Factors like the duration of your stay, the number of destinations you plan to visit, and whether you prefer the convenience of unlimited travel with the Japan Rail Pass or the flexibility of purchasing Shinkansen tickets as needed.
In that article, I’ll explain the pros and cons of both options, and when it’s worth buying the Japan Rail Pass versus purchasing individual Shinkansen tickets.
What is the Shinkansen?
The Shinkansen, also known as the “bullet train,” is a high-speed rail network in Japan operated by Japan Railways, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and efficiency. It connects major cities across the country, such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, allowing passengers to travel quickly and conveniently between destinations. The Shinkansen offers various classes of service, including standard and Green Car (first class), providing a comfortable and reliable travel experience.
▶︎ Shinkansen: A Complete Guide to the Japanese Bullet Train
Shinkansen Tickets
Shinkansen tickets are ideal for travelers with specific destinations in mind or those who prefer more flexibility in their itinerary. You can purchase tickets for individual journeys, allowing you to customize your route and travel at your own pace.
With a variety of ticket options available, including reserved and non-reserved seating, travelers can choose the option that best suits their needs and budget. Purchasing tickets is straightforward, either at the station or online, and the trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to plan your journey.
▶︎Book now your Shinkansen tickets!
Advantages of buying Shinkansen tickets:
You can reserve seats in advance, even before arriving in Japan.
Thanks to the above point, you don’t have to queue at the stations when you arrive in Japan. You can receive your Shinkansen tickets directly in your email.
You can travel at your own pace, without worrying about the pass running out.
Disadvantages of buying Shinkansen tickets:
It can be expensive if you take many bullet trains
You have to buy all the tickets separately.
Where to buy individual Shinkansen tickets?
Japan Bullet Train is a new service launched by our partner company, which offers bullet train and express train tickets in Japan for tourists. All the service is in English (and 3 other languages), including customer service. They accept payments with all major credit cards, and the process is very easy and simple, especially compared to Japanese websites.
After your purchase, once your ticket is confirmed you will receive a QR code. You simply have to scan this QR code in the vending machines available at the main stations from where the bullet train departs and you will get your physical ticket, with which you can access the platform. All from the comfort of your smartphone.
▶︎Book now your Shinkansen tickets!
What is the Japan Rail Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass, or JR Pass, is a convenient and cost-effective way for visitors to explore Japan by train. Available for tourists only, it offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), limited express, and local trains, for a fixed duration (7, 14, or 21 consecutive days).
Until last year, it was a must-have and a bestseller for travelers to Japan. However, since October 2023 the price of the JRPass increased by almost 70%. This means that the 7-day pass cost now 50,000 yen, instead of the 29,650 yen that it used to cost.