Japan: A Fascinating Mystery
Located in the heart of East Asia, Japan is a captivating country where ancient traditions blend beautifully with cutting-edge innovation and modernity.
Tokyo’s skyline is adorned with skyscrapers and neon lights, while the enchanting cherry blossoms and temples of Kyoto tell tales of Japan's rich culture and dreamy landscapes.
Don’t even get us started on the delicious street food you can savour in Osaka.
Step into the world of sushi, ramen, and matcha delights. Embrace the ancient rituals and delicate artistry of tea ceremonies.
From bustling streets to serene mountain retreats, Japan is a fascinating mystery waiting to be unraveled.
Overview of the JR Pass
Many Singaporeans travel to Japan frequently, and booking not-always-cheap flights to the country and then figuring out their complex railway and public transport network is not easy.
Therefore, the best and most cost-effective way to explore the Land of the Rising Sun is to buy a Japan Rail Pass, also known as the JR Pass.
The JR Pass allows tourists unlimited and budget-friendly access to the country’s amazing railway network, including most Japan Railways (JR) trains, Shinkansen (bullet trains), express trains, and local JR lines, for a fixed period.
There are over 20 types of passes to choose from, which can get a bit confusing because, besides the nationwide Whole Japan JR Pass, there are cheaper ones available for specific regions like JR Hokkaido Pass, JR Kansai Pass, JR Kyushu Pass, JR East Pass, JR West Pass and JR Hokuriku Arch Pass, among others.
Furthermore, there are two types of seats that you can access via the Pass:
Ordinary Car: Quite spacious and comfortable seats.
Green Car: First-class seats that offer more space, legroom, comfort, and amenities (meals, TVs, reclining seats, etc.) than the ordinary car.
We know the price of the pass has increased by almost 70%, causing many people to question its worth.
Read on to learn about the price change, offers available, where you can buy the JR Pass in Singapore, and whether you should.
Price Changes and Offers
The Japan Rail Pass price in Singapore has increased significantly since October 2023, making many citizens question if it’s still worth buying it.
But, before we discuss that, let’s talk about the change in price and the new offers included in the pass.
JR Pass | Areas Covered | Validity (Days) | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Whole Japan JR Pass(Ordinary Car) | All of Japan | 7 14 21 | SGD 460 SGD 733 SGD 916 |
Whole Japan JR Pass(Green Car) | All of Japan | 7 14 21 | SGD 641 SGD 1,008 SGD 1,283 |
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass | All JR Hokkaido trains except Hokkaido Shinkansen | 5 7 10 | SGD 183 SGD 238 SGD 293 |
Sapporo-Noboribetsu Area Pass | Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu | 4 | SGD 82 |
Sapporo-Furano Area Pass | Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano | 4 | SGD 91 |
JR East Pass | Tohoku | 5 | SGD 274 |
JR East Pass | Nagano, Niigata | 5 | SGD 247 |
JR West or Central | Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass | 5 | SGD 181 |
JR West | Kansai Area Pass | 1 | SGD 25 |
JR West | Kansai Wide Area Pass | 5 | SGD 110 |
JR Kyushu | Northern Kyushu | 35 | SGD 110 SGD 137 |
JR Kyushu | All Kyushu | 35 | SGD 183 SGD 206 SGD 229 |
JR West | Southern Kyushu | 3 | SGD 91 |
The price hike comes with exciting new perks like special discounts, access, and other benefits at several attractions across Japan.
Kids who are five years old or under travel for free, while 6 to 11-year-olds get a 50% discount!
Also, you can ride fancy trains like the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen Bullet Trains.
But just a heads up, there might be an extra fee (which is not much).
The Japan Rail Pass price in Singapore is cheaper if you buy it before traveling to Japan itself.
Additionally, it's easier because you can get them online or from authorised travel agencies in Singapore.
Is it Still Worth Buying the JR Pass in Singapore?
The answer, my tomodachi, is a loud "Hai!"
Even with the hike, the JR Pass remains a budget-friendly and convenient way for Singaporeans to explore Japan.
Here’s the deal: If you're doing the classic Tokyo to Osaka route or traveling from one big city to another, buying the JR Pass may not be the best thing to do because it’ll cost you the same or maybe more than the flight tickets.
But if you're exploring many places, the JR Pass is an absolute winner!
Besides, the JR Pass isn't just about saving money; it's about freedom and flexibility.
With the JR Pass, changing your itinerary on the go is a breeze.
You can go on spontaneous side trips from Tokyo, escape long ticket queues, and unlock Japan’s regional magic - picturesque countryside, hidden gems that you wouldn’t find on the map, quaint villages, and more.
Plus, the JR Pass is your golden ticket to seamlessly board Shinkansens, local trains, and JR ferries.
Where Can I Buy the JR Pass in Singapore?
Where to buy the JR Pass in Singapore? Worry not!
You can buy the pass online through Pelago or the Japan Travel Bureau website. If you are unable to purchase them online, you can visit the offices of any of the below-mentioned agencies authorised to sell the JR Pass in Singapore.
Location | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|
JTB Travel Saloon (Takashimaya) | 391 Orchard Road, #03-11C, Ngee Ann City Tower B | +65 6595 0600 |
Changi Recommends | Changi Airport Terminal 1, 2 & 4 - Level 1 & 2 Terminal 3 - Level 1 | +65 6701 1185 |
H.I.S. Travel | 100 Tras Street, #03-16/17/18 | +65 6222 1230 |
NTA Travel (S) Pte. Ltd. | 141 Middle Road, #04-05 GSM Building | +65 6352 0613 |
Tanjong Pagar Railway Station | 30 Neil Road, Singapore 088809 | +65 6223 6888 |
Woodlands Train Checkpoint (buy only if travelling to Japan via Malaysia) | 3 Woodlands Avenue 2, Singapore 738495 | +65 6714 1428 |
Remember to purchase your JR Pass before you land in Japan.
Suggested Itineraries for a 7 or 14-day Trip to Japan
7 Days of Bullet Train Bliss:
Day 1-3: Tokyo
Dive into vibrant Shibuya, explore ancient Asakusa, and climb Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking cityscapes.
Day 4-5: Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marvel at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and stroll through Gion's Geisha district.
Day 6-7: Osaka
Indulge in Dotonbori's street food fiesta, visit Osaka Castle, and take a day trip to Nara to cuddle with adorable deer.
14 Days of Deeper Discovery:
Day 1-3: Tokyo
Explore vibrant Shibuya, check out the ancient Asakusa, and climb the Tokyo Skytree to experience breathtaking city views.
Day 4-5: Kanazawa
Witness the Kenroku-en Garden's beauty, explore the samurai district, and visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Day 6-7: Hiroshima & Miyajima
Pay your respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and sail to Miyajima for Itsukushima Shrine's iconic floating gate.
Day 8-9: Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marvel at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and stroll through Gion's geisha district.
Day 10-11: Osaka
Indulge in a street food fiesta in Dotonbori, visit Osaka Castle, and take a day trip to Nara to see adorable deer.
Day 12-14: Hakone & Fuji Five Lakes
Enjoy scenic hot springs in Hakone and marvel at the majestic Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi.
21 Days of Ramen, Hot Springs and Temples:
Day 1-5: Tokyo
Get your neon fix at the Shibuya Crossing and Akihabara's anime wonderland. Bow down to history at Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine and take a day trip to the concrete jungle of Nikko.
Day 6-8: Hakone & Fuji Five Lakes
Melt your worries away in a hot spring with Mount Fuji as your backdrop. Sail across Lake Ashi and then soar above it all on the Hakone Ropeway.
Day 9-12: Kyoto
Gawk at geishas and samurai ghosts in Gion and Higashiyama, bathe in the golden glow of Kinkaku-ji Temple, and climb the vermilion steps of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take a day trip to Nara and cuddle with sika deer.
Day 13-15: Osaka
Head to Dotonbori for delicious street food, neon signs, and takoyaki balls. Conquer Osaka Castle, ascend the Umeda Sky Building for jaw-dropping city views, and take a day trip to Kobe for beef steaks, hikes, and hot springs.
Day 16-18: Hiroshima & Miyajima
Pay your respects at Hiroshima's Peace Park, a symbol of resilience and hope. Hop on a ferry to Miyajima and take a picture of the iconic Floating Torii Gate of Oouo Shrine.
Day 19-21: Kanazawa & Takayama
Get lost in Kenrokuen Garden, a botanical masterpiece fit for an emperor, and wander through Kanazawa's samurai districts for a cup of matcha. Then, head to Takayama to see the Edo-period streets and markets.
Activate your JR Pass before you arrive and brace yourself for the adventure that awaits you in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Grab your chopsticks, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with Japan, one neon-lit noodle slurp at a time!
Arigatou, JR Pass!
Sure, the price hike might force you to pause for a moment and think.
However, the convenience, flexibility, and cost-saving potential of the JR Pass still make it a stellar investment in your Japanese adventure.
So, get your JR Pass, pack your bags, embrace the wanderlust, and let it guide you on an unforgettable journey through the Land of the Rising Sun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the JR Pass in Singapore?
Several travel agencies like JTB Travel Saloon, H.I.S. Travel and NTA Travel offer JR Passes along with online platforms like Pelago and Japan Travel Bureau. You can also purchase at Tanjong Pagar Railway Station or Woodlands Train Checkpoint, but options might be limited.
Which JR Pass should I choose?
Consider your travel itinerary before choosing the most cost-effective or cheapest JR Pass in Singapore. The Whole Japan Rail Pass is best for extensive travel across the country, while regional passes (like the JR East Pass Singapore, Hokuriku Arch Pass Singapore and JR West Pass Singapore) are ideal for deeper and more precise exploration.
Is the JR Pass worth it?
If you plan on travelling extensively across Japan, then the JR Pass is cost-effective compared to individual tickets. Analyse your itinerary and travel plans and compare prices to decide.
Can I buy the JR Pass after arriving in Japan?
No, you must purchase it before you travel to Japan.
What happens if I lose my JR Pass?
Unfortunately, lost or stolen JR Passes cannot be replaced. However, you can purchase a new one, though it might be costly.
Does the JR Pass include travel in local buses and subways and airport transportation?
No, the JR Pass doesn't cover airport transportation. Nor does it include travel in local buses and subways. You need to purchase separate tickets for those. The pass is only valid for the country’s train network.