JR Pass Alternatives: The Japan 14-Day Value Pack

JR Pass 14 day Value Pack

Planning to explore Japan but not sure the JR Pass fits your travel budget?

The Japan 14-Day Value Pack might be just what you need! Designed for flexibility and savings, this pack is ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple cities without the cost of a full-country pass.

The pack combines 2 regional passes, each covering major destinations like Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, and Kyoto, for a total of 12 days of train journeys.

This package is perfect for travelers focusing on specific regions. The pack lets you enjoy the best of Japan at your own pace and within your price range. Ready to see more while spending less?

Keep reading to find out more about the pack and how to start planning your trip to Japan.

JR Pass 14-Day Vs. 14-Day Value Pack

The Japan 14-Day Value Pack is made to help you travel in different regions of Japan if you’re on a budget.

You can activate the passes at different times, providing the ability to explore regions at your own pace. Plus, the option to add Hiroshima gives even more options for seeing more sights.

However, while you save around 50%, or 44% if you include Hiroshima, you miss out on the JR Pass’s flexibility and the chance to travel across the country.

The JR Pass covers the whole country with a single pass.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your itinerary. If your travels are regional, the 14-Day Value Pack might be your best bet for savings and a range of options.

JR Pass 14 days VS 14 Days Value Pack

What does the Japan 14-Day Value Pack cover?

The Japan 14-Day Value Pack lets you see Japan’s top destinations in a convenient and cost-effective way. This bundle includes two regional passes covering famous cities and attractions, giving you 12 days of travel without the high cost of a nationwide pass.

Here’s what each pass includes:

14 Value Pack - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

  • Kansai Wide Area Pass 5 days, ¥12,648: Covers popular Kansai region cities, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Okayama.
  • Hokuriku Arch Pass 7 days, ¥31,696: Extends coverage to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara.

The total cost of your trip would be ¥44,344 for 12 days of trail travel, covering Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Okayama, which comes out to saving ¥44,649 compared with the JR Pass.

 

For those who want to add Hiroshima to their itinerary, an alternative option is available:

14 Value Pack - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima

  • Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass 5 days, ¥17,835: Includes Hiroshima in addition to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Okayama.
  • Hokuriku Arch Pass 7 days, ¥31,696: Adds coverage from Tokyo through Kanazawa down to Kyoto and Osaka.

You would pay ¥49,531 for 12 days, covering Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, Okayama, and Hiroshima.

That would help you save ¥39,462!

Choose the pass combo that best fits your itinerary, and enjoy a memorable journey through Japan!

Why use this pack to travel around Japan?

By using this bundle, you can enjoy a number of benefits that make it a smart choice for travelers exploring multiple regions in Japan.

  • Flexibility: Each pass activates independently, allowing you to spread your 14 travel days across two different periods. This means you can explore one region, take a break, and then activate the second pass later.
  • Cost savings: With pricing that can save you up to 44% compared to the JR Pass, the 14-Day Value Pack is a good option for seeing Japan’s top destinations without overspending.
  • Regional focus: The bundle is ideal for travelers with a focus on the Kansai and Hokuriku regions, including major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, along with cultural gems like Kanazawa and Nara.
  • Access to local attractions: Coverage includes key Shinkansen routes, major landmarks, and even select airport transfers, so getting around is both easy and affordable.
  • Optional Hiroshima extension: For those who want more, you can switch to the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass for a small additional fee, adding Hiroshima to your itinerary.

With the Value Pack, you get affordability, flexibility, and access to Japan’s best sights on your terms.

Ideas for your 14-day itinerary

As you know, with your cost-saving travel combo, you have both a 5-day and 7-day pass.

So, how can you stretch it out to a 14-day itinerary?

Depending on whether you use the 5-day pass or 7-day pass first, you can take an extra couple of days in cities like Osaka or Kyoto and enjoy everything those cities have to offer before activating your second pass.

Hanami koji street in Kyoto

Here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of the Japan Value Pack. With separate activation periods for each pass, you can travel at your own pace and explore diverse regions.

  • Days 1-2: Tokyo – Activate the Hokuriku Arch Pass at Narita Airport and start exploring Tokyo. Visit iconic sights like the Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.
  • Days 3-4: Kanazawa – Travel to Kanazawa to explore Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and consider a day trip to the traditional village of Shirakawa-go.
  • Days 5-7: Kyoto – Head to Kyoto for cultural treasures like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and the Gion district. Enjoy 2 extra days before activating your 7-day pass.
  • Days 8-10 : Osaka and Nara – Discover Osaka’s vibrant urban scene, including Dotonbori and Osaka Castle. Take a day trip to Nara for its temples and friendly deer.
  • Days 11-14: Himeji, Okayama– Visit the stunning Himeji Castle, take a day trip to Okayama’s Korakuen Garden, and finally head back to Kansai International Airport.

Want to see even more? Add Hiroshima to your trip!

If you want to add even more to your Japan adventure, consider upgrading to the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass instead of the Kansai Wide Pass.

The great red floating torii in Miyajima

This pass covers all the same Kansai region cities—like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara—but also includes Hiroshima, giving you access to even more iconic destinations.

With Hiroshima added, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Days 1-2: Tokyo – Start in Tokyo, exploring key attractions with your Hokuriku Arch Pass.
  • Days 3-4: Kanazawa – Dive into Kanazawa’s cultural highlights, with an optional day trip to Shirakawa-go.
  • Days 5-7: Kyoto – Take in Kyoto’s historical sites, including shrines and temples. Add 2 extra days in Japan’s historic capital before activating your 7-day pass.
  • Days 8-10: Osaka and Nara – Experience the modern vibes of Osaka and the tranquility of Nara.
  • Days 11-14: Hiroshima – Head to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and take a day trip to the serene Miyajima Island before heading to Kansai International Airport.

Adding Hiroshima gives you a more extensive view of Japan.

If you’re ready to make the most of your journey and explore more, this upgrade is the perfect way to add to your itinerary. Don’t miss the chance to experience Hiroshima’s unique history and culture!

Discover Japan affordably and easily with the JRP Value Pack

Make the most of your trip with the Value Pack’s tailored options and enjoy a stress-free, budget-friendly adventure. Book your Japan convenience package now and start planning the journey of a lifetime!

| 

Related tours & activities