Navigating the Japan Rail Pass in 2023: What Travellers Need to Know

Today, we'll provide an overview of the upcoming changes, explain the reasons behind the price increase, compare the current and new prices, offer tips for securing passes at the current pricing before the update, and provide alternatives for consideration. Is the Japan Rail Pass still worth it? Keep reading to find out.

The Japan Rail Pass: A Brief Overview

The Japan Rail Pass, commonly referred to as the JR Pass, is a special pass designed for foreign travellers visiting Japan. It allows unlimited travel on Japan Railways Group-operated transportation, including the famous Shinkansen Bullet Trains and various other trains, buses, and even a ferry. The pass offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore different regions of Japan. All of this remains true.

Upcoming Changes to the Japan Rail Pass from the 1st of October 2023

1. Price Increase: The primary change affecting the JR Pass is the price increase. The base price of the pass has barely changed for decades, but due to factors like the yen's decline in value, rising energy costs, and maintenance expenses, Japan Railways has deemed a price adjustment necessary. 
    
2. Access to Nozomi and Mizuho Trains: With the current JR Pass is not possible to ride any of the Nozomi or Mizuho trains. This will change from October 1st, 2023, and it is very good news. The Nozomi and the Mizuho have the advantage to be the fastest trains along the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen and the Sanyo/Kyushu Shinkansen. However, an additional supplement fee will be required to ride these trains.
    
3. Discounts at Tourist Attractions: We are still waiting for more news about the type of discounts you'll get purchasing the Japan Rail Pass, but it seems like there will be some. In September, we will know more about this.

Comparison of Current and New Prices

The following list shows the upcoming new prices, as well as the current ones, for various JR Pass types:

Ordinary 7-day
328 EUR (previously 190 EUR)

Ordinary 14-day
525 EUR (previously 302 EUR)

Ordinary 21-day
657 EUR (previously 387 EUR)

Green 7-day
460 EUR (previously 254 EUR)

Green 14-day
722 EUR (previously 410 EUR)

Green 21-day
919 EUR (previously 533 EUR)

These are 07-08-2023 rates. The prices might change.

Booking the JR Pass at Current Prices

The price increase will apply from the 1st of October 2023. Vouchers issued up to 30th September 2023 will be sold for the old price and can be exchanged in Japan within 90 days. If you are planning to visit Japan up to the end of December 2023, order your pass from us by midnight 28th of September 2023 and it will allow you to secure pre-update prices. 

Act quickly to secure your JR Passes at the current price before they go up. Purchase your Japan Rail Pass now.  While placing your order, you'll have the convenience of checking the exact date when the 90-day validity period commences. Simply select your desired pass, click "order now," and indicate your preferred "First date of use."

Rest assured; our calendar guarantees that your chosen first date of use will fall within 90 days from the date of purchase. For any additional information about validity and how to exchange the voucher, feel free to visit our comprehensive FAQ page. Don't wait any longer – seize this opportunity to get your passes online before midnight on 28th September 2023 and start mapping out your incredible journey ahead!

Is the JR Pass Still Worth It?

The short answer is still yes. The long answer is that it depends on individual itineraries and travel plans. For those intending to explore multiple regions in Japan and take advantage of the flexibility and convenience the pass offers, it remains a cost-effective option. However, for travellers with simpler itineraries, such as a round-trip between Tokyo and Kyoto, point-to-point tickets might be more cost-efficient.

Conclusion

For those with travel plans that include multiple regions, the JR Pass, even after the price increase on the 1st of October 2023, remains a cost-effective and convenient choice. Buy now.

We understand that planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially with the changing pass prices and the wide range of options available. That's why we're here to assist you in creating the perfect itinerary. We can assist you with the whole trip. Get in touch with one of our travel consultants today and begin your lifetime adventure in Japan.