5-Day JR EAST Pass: Discover the Wonders of Nagano & Niigata

Details

Validity Period:  90 days from the date of booking

Price: US$123.88 ( Adult)

Child Age 6–11: US$61.94

Have you ever dreamed of stepping onto a train in Japan, looking out the window, and watching as the landscapes of Nagano and Niigata unfold before you? The JR EAST Pass is designed just for travelers like you, especially those holding an international passport. It's not just a ticket; it's a gateway to a world of exploration. From the majestic mountains to the serene coastal towns, every destination is within reach. With this pass, numerous train lines including the well-known JR EAST, Izu Kyuko, and the iconic Tokyo Monorail are all at your fingertips. Whether it’s the express trains, with names like "Nikko" ringing with allure, or the calming stretches of the Echigo TOKImeki Railway, each ride is an experience in itself.

And there's more to this journey than just trains. Selected JR bus routes extend your exploration further, leading you to corners of the region that roads often whisper about. Five days might sound fleeting, but with the freedom this pass offers, time stretches out, allowing you to soak in every moment, every sight, every emotion. The charm of Nagano and Niigata, their stories and beauty, are just waiting to be discovered. So, if you're looking for an adventure that offers both tranquility and excitement, this is your moment. Grab your JR EAST Pass, and let's weave those travel tales together. Dive into the heart of Japan, and let it surprise you at every turn."

Ready to Ride? Here's Where Your Pass Takes You

• JR EAST Lines: Travel across key areas in the east.

• Tokyo Monorail: Glide smoothly around Tokyo.

• Izu Kyuko Line: Discover what Izu has to offer.

• Hokuetsu Express: Explore without limitations.

• Echigo Tokimeki Railway: Specifically between Naoetsu and Arai.

• Special Express Trains:

• Get comfy in reserved seats on the Nikko, Kinugawa, and SPACIA Kinugawa that journey between JR East and Tobu Railway lines.

Tobu Railway Insights:

• Regular trains, rapid ones included, are accessible between Shimo-imaichi and Tōbu-nikkō / Kinugawa-onsen.

• If traveling between Kurihashi and Shimo-imaichi, stick to express trains that collaborate with Tobu Railway.

Note: Trains that start and end on Tobu Railway lines aren't included. Ensure your Tobu Railway train starts or ends at a JR station to use your JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area).

Bus Routes? We've Got You:

• Enjoy the benefits of JR buses in the region, but do keep in mind highway buses and some regular routes aren’t covered.

Important Points for Your JR EAST PASS:

• We'll need an ID for kids to check their age when buying.

• Kids under 6? They're free. But if you want a spot just for them, get a pass.

• Want the fancy Green Cars or GranClass? They cost a bit more.

• Sorry, no discounts for students or young folks.

• Use just one JR EAST PASS at a time, and make sure they don’t overlap.

• This pass won't work on the Tokaido Shinkansen; that's run by someone else.

• The pass doesn’t cover some parts of the Ōito Line and Hokuriku Shinkansen. For the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Itoigawa, buy a regular and an express ticket.

Getting Started with Your Ticket:

1. Once you've booked, check your inbox! A confirmation email will pop up there.

2. Head to one of those green ticket machines. With your e-ticket voucher and non-Japanese passport, you can collect your actual ticket.

3. With your ticket in hand, just breeze through the automated ticket gate, and you're good to go! Safe travels! 🚂

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is the JR EAST PASS?

Ans: The JR EAST PASS is a rail pass designed specifically for international tourists, granting them unlimited travel on designated JR East trains, including Shinkansen, express, and local services within the covered areas. The goal is to make exploring cities like Niigata, Nagano, and Tokyo easy and economical.

Q: Who is eligible to purchase and use the JR EAST PASS?

Ans: Only non-Japanese passport holders visiting Japan for short-term stays (i.e., for tourism) are eligible to purchase and utilize the JR EAST PASS. You'll need to present your non-Japanese passport when exchanging your voucher for the actual pass.

Q: How long is the JR EAST PASS valid once activated?

Ans: The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days from the date of activation. This means if you activate it on a Monday, it'll remain valid until the end of Friday.

Q: Are there any limitations on the trains or seats I can access with the pass?

Ans: While the pass offers unlimited rides on designated JR EAST lines, certain train services or carriages (like Green Cars or GranClass) may require an additional fee. It's also crucial to check which lines and services fall under the pass's purview.

Q: How do I retrieve my physical pass after booking online?

Ans: After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email. With this email and your non-Japanese passport, head to a green ticket machine at designated stations to retrieve your physical ticket.

Q: Can children travel using the JR EAST PASS?

Ans: Yes, children can travel using the pass. Children under the age of 6 don't require a pass unless you want to reserve specific seats for them. It's always recommended to carry identification to prove a child's age if necessary.

Q: Are there specific routes the JR EAST PASS doesn't cover?

Ans: Certain sections, like between Minami-Otari and Itoigawa on the Ōito Line and between Itoigawa and Jōetsumyōkō on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, aren't covered. You'd need to purchase additional tickets for these sections.

Q: Can I use the pass on buses or other forms of transportation?

Ans: The primary use is for trains, but the pass also covers select JR bus routes in the area. However, some routes may not be covered, especially highway and specific regular bus routes.

Q: Can I cancel or refund my JR EAST PASS after purchase?

Ans: The JR EAST PASS has specific cancellation and refund policies. While unused passes can often be refunded, the pass is non-refundable once activated. Always check the terms and conditions at the time of booking.

Related Read: Nagano's Alpine Adventures: Skiing, Snow Monkeys, and Beyond