JR Kansai Wide Area Pass: 5-Day Rail Pass (e-Voucher)
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JR Kansai Wide Area Pass: 5-Day Rail Pass (e-Voucher)
Next available dates
Today
5 Jan
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6 Jan
Wed
7 Jan
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Highlights
Explore the Kansai Area in Style
See more of western Japan with the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass (5-Day). Enjoy unlimited rides on JR West local, rapid, and limited express trains - plus train lines like the Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Okayama, the HARUKA Kansai-Airport Express, the Chizukyu Express Line, Wakayama Railway, and even the Kyoto Tango Railway with its scenic “Aka-matsu” (Red Pine) and “Kuro-matsu” (Black Pine) trains. Zip between Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Okayama, Amanohashidate, Kinosaki Onsen, Tottori, Shirahama, and more with one easy-to-use rail pass.
Choose standard admission or go for value bundles that include extras like a Setouchi Triennale 2025 All-Season Passport or a KDDI Japan eSIM (4-Day). Redeem your eMCO e-voucher at JR green ticket vending machines or JR West Ticket Offices and explore freely for five consecutive days. From local JR buses to shinkansen trains, this single Kansai-specific JR pass makes long-distance trips simple, flexible, and completely ticket-free.
Want to find out more about the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass? Check out our guide on how to use this pass to travel just like a local.
Top Perks of JR West's Must-Get Kansai Pass
- Unlimited JR West Travel: Enjoy five days of unlimited rides on JR West special rapid, rapid, and local trains across the Kansai region.
- Shinkansen & Express Access: Use the Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Okayama, plus reserved seats on HARUKA and major limited express trains.
- Wide Destination Coverage: Reach Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kinosaki Onsen, Tottori, Amanohashidate, Shirahama, and Okayama with one Kansai Wide Area Pass.
- Easy eMCO Redemption: Redeem your pass at JR West green ticket machines or JR Ticket Offices using an IC-chip passport.
- Optional Value Bundles: Choose packages that add a Setouchi Triennale Passport or a KDDI Japan eSIM.
- Ideal for Longer Itineraries: Cover wider routes and maximise value with a pass built for extended Kansai and western Japan travel.
What's included
INCLUDED
Reserved/non-reserved seats on the Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka – Okayama)
Reserved seats on limited express trains (HARUKA, KUROSHIO, THUNDERBIRD, KOUNOTORI, SUPER HAKUTO, SUPER INABA, etc.)
Special Rapid, Rapid, and Local JR West trains within the valid area
West Japan JR Buses within the area (excluding highway buses)
Optional add-ons on select packages (e.g., Setouchi Triennale 2025 All-Season Passport; KDDI Japan eSIM 4-Day)
NOT INCLUDED
Sanyo Shinkansen (Okayama – Hakata)
Tokaido Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka – Tokyo)
Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata – Kagoshima-Chuo)
Voice calls/SMS for eSIM packages
Customer reviews
Review summary
Powered by AIThe JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is praised for its ease of redemption, value for money, and extensive coverage, making it ideal for exploring the Kansai area. Users appreciate the convenience of using e-vouchers and green ticket machines, as well as the flexibility for long-distance travel. Some noted limitations include restrictions on direct routes and seat reservations, but overall, the pass is highly recommended for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Additional information
Operating Hours
- Kinosaki SOZORO Tourist Information Center (for KINOSAKI MUST-VISITS Pass redemption): 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM, daily.
- Adventure World ticket counter (admission counter hours only): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Wednesdays.
- Hours may change; check official pages before you go: JR West Pass info ・ Setouchi Triennale.
Must Know
- Pass is valid for 5 consecutive days after first use and cannot be split across non-consecutive dates.
- Redeem within 90 days of issue; an estimated start date (within 30 days of redemption) must be selected.
- Only passes departing within 3 months are available for booking.
- Setouchi Triennale 2025 ticket validity: Apr 18–Nov 9, 2025 (not valid: May 26–Jul 31; Sep 1–Oct 2).
- Prices/validity subject to JR West notices; see press info: details.
- Luggage limit: up to two items per person; each ≤30 kg; L+W+H ≤250 cm (length ≤200 cm).
Eligibility
- Available to non-Japanese passport holders entering Japan with Temporary Visitor status.
- Residents/nationals of Japan are ineligible.
Child Policy
- Adult: 12+ years.
- Child: 6–11 years (child pass required).
- Up to two children aged 1–5 ride free per paying adult; the third and subsequent children require a child pass.
- Children under 1 year old ride free.
- Child pass required if occupying a reserved seat or traveling alone.
What to Bring
- Passport (IC-chip passport required for machine redemption)
- eMCO e-voucher (mobile or printed)
- Credit card/cash for any surcharges and seat reservations
- Charged mobile phone (for eSIM options)
Accessibility
- Most major JR stations provide elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
- Assistance may vary by station—allow extra time when transferring.
Booking Confirmation
- Instant confirmation for all options.
- eMCO and redemption instructions will be sent by email after booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Standard Pass: Free cancellation up to 2 days before the selected date; 0–1 day prior is non-refundable.
- Super Value/Setouchi/eSIM Packages: Non-refundable once the order is completed or the eSIM is issued.
- Refunds (when applicable) are processed within 14 working days. After redemption, refunds require processing at a JR counter and a 10% handling fee.
Voucher Use
- Present your e-voucher (eMCO) and passport at eligible JR machines or counters within 90 days of the issue date to exchange for the physical pass.
- Pass validity starts from first use and runs for 5 consecutive days.
- For route coverage and machine use details, see JR West coverage & machine guide.
- Self-service: Redeem at green ticket machines marked with the passport or 5489 icons (e-passport with IC chip required). Redemption info: locations ・ eMCO guide.
- Counter: JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-madoguchi/Green Window) with your passport and eMCO.
- Reserved seats: Collect at Green Ticket Machine or counter before boarding. How-to: seat reservation guide.
Location
Address
SOZORO Tourist Information Center (example add-on redemption): 96 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
Provider
Osaka
Frequently asked questions
What areas does the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass cover?
The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass covers many of the region’s most popular spots, making it easy to explore the Kansai region and beyond. You can travel to major cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, and Shirahama in Wakayama, right up to the Sea of Japan coast at Kinosaki Onsen, Tsuruga, and the famous Amanohashidate. The pass also takes you west to Okayama on the Sanyo Shinkansen (non-reserved cars only).
It also includes direct access to Kansai Airport on the Kansai-Airport Express HARUKA (reserved seats available). If you’re keen to see more of Kansai without worrying about individual tickets, this pass keeps everything simple and connected.
It also includes direct access to Kansai Airport on the Kansai-Airport Express HARUKA (reserved seats available). If you’re keen to see more of Kansai without worrying about individual tickets, this pass keeps everything simple and connected.
Does the Kansai Wide Area Pass include the Sanyo Shinkansen?
Yes, the Kansai Wide Area Pass does include the Sanyo Shinkansen, even the iconic Hello Kitty Shinkansen (which will be ending its service in Spring 2026). Just note that this coverage applies only to the section between Shin-Osaka and Okayama.
You can use non-reserved seats in ordinary cars, along with specific Hikari and Kodama services on this stretch of the Sanyo line. Beyond Okayama, the Sanyo Shinkansen isn’t covered, and the pass isn’t valid on the Tokaido Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Kyoto or any further points in that direction.
You can use non-reserved seats in ordinary cars, along with specific Hikari and Kodama services on this stretch of the Sanyo line. Beyond Okayama, the Sanyo Shinkansen isn’t covered, and the pass isn’t valid on the Tokaido Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Kyoto or any further points in that direction.
Does the pass cover Shinkansen trains?
Yes, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass does cover some Shinkansen (bullet train) services, like the Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Okayama. But the pass doesn't cover the Tokaido Shinkansen from Osaka/Kyoto to Tokyo.
Also, for the Sanyo Shinkansen route, you can only use the much slower Kodama and Hikari bullet trains, and not the faster Nozomi or Mizuho ones. If you find this regional rail pass limited in that sense, perhaps you might want to consider the nationwide JR Pass, which covers pretty much the entire country for travel by train.
Also, for the Sanyo Shinkansen route, you can only use the much slower Kodama and Hikari bullet trains, and not the faster Nozomi or Mizuho ones. If you find this regional rail pass limited in that sense, perhaps you might want to consider the nationwide JR Pass, which covers pretty much the entire country for travel by train.
How does the Kansai Wide Area Pass compare to the Kansai Thru Pass or Kansai Area Pass?
The Kansai Wide Area Pass covers the largest area of the three. You can use it on Shinkansen and Limited Express trains to places like Tottori and Okayama, along with most major JR West stations across the region.
The Kansai Area Pass is more focused on the core cities - Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe - and is best for travellers using local JR lines such as the JR Kyoto Line, JR Osaka Loop Line, and JR Nara Line.
The Kansai Thru Pass, on the other hand, is for private railways and subways in those same cities, as well as Koya-san, making it great for getting around without relying on JR networks.
Just take note that none of these passes cover expressway buses.
The Kansai Area Pass is more focused on the core cities - Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe - and is best for travellers using local JR lines such as the JR Kyoto Line, JR Osaka Loop Line, and JR Nara Line.
The Kansai Thru Pass, on the other hand, is for private railways and subways in those same cities, as well as Koya-san, making it great for getting around without relying on JR networks.
Just take note that none of these passes cover expressway buses.
Where can I buy the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass?
You can buy the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass both online and after you arrive in Japan. Online is the easiest option, and you’ll find it on the JR West website or through trusted third-party platforms like Pelago.
If you prefer to buy it in person, you can do so at major JR West stations such as Osaka, Shin-Osaka, Kyoto, Sannomiya, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and Hakata, as well as at Kansai International Airport. Head to the foreign traveller counters or TiS branches, where staff can help you purchase the pass or exchange your online voucher.
All you need to do is show your passport when buying the pass or redeeming your voucher in Japan.
If you prefer to buy it in person, you can do so at major JR West stations such as Osaka, Shin-Osaka, Kyoto, Sannomiya, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and Hakata, as well as at Kansai International Airport. Head to the foreign traveller counters or TiS branches, where staff can help you purchase the pass or exchange your online voucher.
All you need to do is show your passport when buying the pass or redeeming your voucher in Japan.
How do I activate or redeem the pass in Japan?
To activate your JR Kansai Wide Area Pass, simply exchange your voucher for a physical ticket at a JR ticket office or another designated exchange location in Japan. These counters are usually found at major JR stations and airports.
Just remember to bring your passport when you redeem your voucher - it’s required for activation.
Just remember to bring your passport when you redeem your voucher - it’s required for activation.
How long is the validity period of the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass?
The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is available for 5 consecutive days, allowing unlimited travel during the selected period.
Is the Kansai Wide Pass worth it for my itinerary?
Yes, you can use the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass on a few non-JR lines, but the coverage is limited. It includes specific partner lines like the Wakayama Electric Railway, the Chizukyu Express, and the Kyoto Tango Railway to Amanohashidate.
It isn’t valid on most private railways or city subways, such as the Osaka Metro or Kyoto Subway, and you’ll need an IC card for those. The pass also doesn’t work on local city buses.
For everything else, the pass is mainly JR West–focused and covers special rapid, rapid, and local trains on JR West lines between Osaka and Okayama.
It isn’t valid on most private railways or city subways, such as the Osaka Metro or Kyoto Subway, and you’ll need an IC card for those. The pass also doesn’t work on local city buses.
For everything else, the pass is mainly JR West–focused and covers special rapid, rapid, and local trains on JR West lines between Osaka and Okayama.
The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is extremely worth it if you plan your trip well. For instance, if your itinerary involves extensive (and intensive) travel beyond the typical Osaka–Kyoto–Nara–Kobe route, involving long-distance JR train journeys, then the pass starts to make sense compared to buying individual tickets, which might be pricey.
Say, for example, if you're heading to places like Himeji, Kurashiki, Tottori, Kinosaki, Okayama, or the Kumano region, as well as taking the Haruka Airport Express train to and from Kansai International Airport, the pass will save you a great deal. When it might not be so worth it is if you're only planning urban travel within Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. Individual tickets or IC cards will be cheaper then.
Say, for example, if you're heading to places like Himeji, Kurashiki, Tottori, Kinosaki, Okayama, or the Kumano region, as well as taking the Haruka Airport Express train to and from Kansai International Airport, the pass will save you a great deal. When it might not be so worth it is if you're only planning urban travel within Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. Individual tickets or IC cards will be cheaper then.
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Easy to redeem you don’t have to go to any JR counter just go to their Shinkansen ticketing machine, select the scan the QR code option which is provided on the PDF Ticket that Pelago send to you (should be under JR West group) After which they’ll issue you the green tickets directly from the machine and you can proceed to use it fo any JR line in the Kansai region. (unsure about the route coverage so check beforehand which station is covered)
the exchange process with the real pass is smooth and hassle free. The pass is very worth the price, if you can maximize its value
Very easy to redeem. Great value if planning to use Shinkansen for the covered area
Great. E ticket was sent via email. Just need to use green ticketing machine at relevant JR stations to scan via QR code on the ticket. The pass will then be issued by the machine.
👍Value for $$$ and easy to use. Very good for long distance travel around Kansai area.
I went to get my pass over at the JR office in Kansai airport T1 without any hassle. I landed at T2 and needed to get on a shuttle bus thats all.