This section of our blog is dedicated to the public transportation in Japan, available for free to all Japan Rail Pass holders.
If you want to learn more about how to locate and take your trains from Tokyo or Kyoto stations; how to arrive in central Tokyo from Narita Airport, by taking the Narita Express (N’EX); how to ride the JR buses in the major cities or take the Miyajima ferry from Hiroshima, this section is for you.
You will also enjoy a number of comprehensive routes on how to arrive from one city to another; where to look for accurate online timetables; where and how to transfer between stations and more.
On March 14, 2020, after a long period of development and construction, Japan Rail (JR) East opened a new station on the Yamanote Loop Line, Takanawa Gateway Station.
Situated in Tokyo’s Minato Ward between Shinagawa and Tamachi, the station also serves the Keihin Tohoku Line, and is located close to the popular Roppongi district.
JR East has unveiled the new E261 Saphir Odoriko Express trains ahead of their official launch on March 14th 2020. The first-class-only train service running to the spa resorts of the Izu peninsula is to feature brand new super luxury cars and a livery redesign.
The majestic Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan. Each year, around 250,000 travelers from around the world visit the 3,776-meter mountain – an average of 4,000 visitors per day.
Many of these visitors use Japan’s highly efficient train system to reach their destination. This often includes passage through Kawaguchiko Station.
Tennoji Station, called Tennoji-eki in Japanese, is located in the Tennoji-ku region of southern Osaka. It is an important transportation hub.
In the past, the area around Tennoji Station has had a “seedy” reputation. It’s the setting of many crime mangas and a historic “pleasure district.” However, renovations and tourism have elevated Tennoji, and there’s something there for everyone – from zoos and museums to ancient temples and food stands.
Although it’s possible to take in almost all of Japan using the Shinkansen bullet trains, there may be times when the traveler wants to explore attractions off the main routes, or just try out driving in Japan for themselves.
There a number of different vehicle rental companies in Japan that foreign travelers can choose from, but those traveling with the Japan Rail Pass should take note that only one offers special discounts for JR Pass holders.
Japan is known for its safe and fast rail system. In addition to getting from place to place, many travelers wish to enjoy the ride – especially when it takes them past beautiful, picturesque scenery of the Japanese countryside.
The Hida Limited Express is a train that does just that. It is named after the former Hida Province on the west side of the Hida Mountains, which is now the northern expanse of the Gifu Prefecture in Chubu. Today, it is the primary means of reaching Takayama.
