JR rail pass calculator
The nationwide JR Pass only makes sense for a narrow set of trips. Use this calculator to total the long shinkansen legs on your route and compare them against the current 7-day pass price.
By Amir · Last reviewed: March 2026
Trip inputs
Recommendation
Trips counted
2
Shinkansen total
JPY 25,000
JR Pass total
JPY 50,000
Difference
JPY 25,000
Your selected routes stay under the 7-day pass cost. Unless you need flexibility more than savings, separate tickets are likely the better buy.
Logic used: if total shinkansen cost is greater than the pass price, the pass is marked as worth it.
Based on your routes, individual tickets save money. You can still compare pass options at JRPass.com.
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Common questions
Is the JR Pass worth it?
The JR Pass is worth it if your shinkansen costs exceed the pass price within the 7-day window. It typically pays off for multi-city routes like Tokyo → Kyoto → Hiroshima.
Which Shinkansen are covered, and can I use it on the Nozomi?
Most Shinkansen lines are covered by the JR Pass — but the Nozomi (Tokaido/Sanyo) and Mizuho (Sanyo) require a separate supplement ticket even with an active pass. Use Hikari or Sakura trains at no extra cost. Regional trains, subways, and private railways are not covered.
What routes does the JR Pass cover?
All JR-operated trains nationwide: most Shinkansen, JR local and rapid trains, JR buses on selected routes, and the JR ferry to Miyajima. Private railways and subway lines are not covered.
How much does the JR Pass cost?
The 7-day ordinary pass is around ¥50,000 (~USD 330). The 14-day is ~¥80,000 and the 21-day is ~¥100,000. Check the official JR site or authorized resellers for current pricing.
Should I buy the JR Pass or individual tickets?
Buy individual tickets if your trip is mostly within one region (e.g., just Tokyo and nearby day trips). Buy the JR Pass if you are making 3+ long-distance shinkansen trips across different cities in a week.
Is the JR Pass valid on all trains in Japan?
No. It covers JR trains only. Private railways (Keio, Odakyu, Hankyu, Kintetsu) and subway lines in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are not included. Neither are most non-JR bus companies.
Can tourists buy the JR Pass?
Only foreign tourists visiting Japan as temporary visitors are eligible. You can purchase an Exchange Order from an authorised reseller online before you travel, or buy directly through the official JR online shop (with some limitations). Exchange your voucher at a JR office at the airport or in major stations.
Can I buy a JR Pass after I arrive in Japan?
Yes. You can purchase a JR Pass after arrival in Japan through the official JR online shop (with a valid credit card and passport), or buy an Exchange Order from resellers within Japan and exchange it at a JR office. Note: prices may differ from overseas rates and some resellers charge more for in-Japan purchase.
How do I activate the JR Pass?
Present your Exchange Order and passport at a JR exchange office (major airports and stations like Tokyo/Kyoto Station). Choose your start date within 30 days — the pass is valid from that date.
Is a 7-day pass enough for Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka?
For a Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Tokyo triangle, individual tickets are usually cheaper. The JR Pass only pays off if you add at least one more long leg like Hiroshima or Nagano.