Everything you need to get around Japan. JR Pass, IC cards, airport transfers, and Shinkansen tickets.
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It depends on your itinerary. The JR Pass is worth it if you plan to travel between multiple cities — Tokyo to Kyoto to Hiroshima, for example. For a single-city stay or a short Tokyo-only trip, individual tickets and an IC card will be cheaper. Use a JR fare calculator to compare your planned routes against the pass price before buying.
2. What is a Suica card and do I need one?
Suica is a rechargeable contactless smart card that works as a transit pass and a payment card. Tap it to ride any train, subway, or bus in Japan, and to pay at convenience stores, vending machines, and many restaurants. Even if you have a JR Pass, you still need a Suica (or similar IC card) for local metro lines, buses, and everyday purchases.
3. What's the best way to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
The Keisei Skyliner is the fastest and most affordable option for most travellers — it reaches Ueno in 41 minutes from $14. The Narita Express N'EX ($25) goes directly to Shinjuku and Shibuya, which is more convenient if your hotel is on the west side of Tokyo. JR Pass holders can use the N'EX for free with a seat reservation.
4. Is the JR Pass valid on the Shinkansen?
Yes — but not on Nozomi or Mizuho services (the very fastest Shinkansen). It covers Hikari, Sakura, Kodama, and Hayabusa services, which are only 15–30 minutes slower. JR Pass holders must make free seat reservations in advance, which can be done at any JR ticket office or via the JR ticket app.
5. Can I use IC cards everywhere in Japan?
Suica and other IC cards (Pasmo, ICOCA, Nimoca) are accepted on virtually all trains, subways, and buses across Japan, and at convenience stores, most vending machines, and many restaurants. They are not valid for Shinkansen travel, which requires a separate ticket or JR Pass. Every tourist should have one.
