Foreign tourists visiting Japan often purchase the JR (Japan Rail) PASS, a cost-effective multi-day ticket for riding the Shinkansen.
However, for foreigners living in Japan, there is a slight issue as many JR PASS options are only available for those holding a “Short-Term Stay” visa.
JR PASS for Foreigners Living in Japan
This time, we will introduce several JR tickets that can also be purchased by holders of work visas, internship visas, or other residence visas in Japan.
This way, you can still travel on a budget while staying in the Land of the Cherry Blossoms!
1. JR East Rail Pass – Tohoku Area
When it comes to affordable and convenient JR PASS options, the JR East Rail Pass – Tohoku Area is a must-have.
This ticket can be purchased by all non-Japanese travelers, without requiring a short-term stay visa.
The latest version is only available for five consecutive days and can be purchased through the JR East Online Reservation website, Green Windows (Midori no Madoguchi), or certain travel agencies.
Additionally, you can book seats on the Shinkansen up to one month in advance via the official website—very convenient!
- Current Price:
- Adults: 30.000 yen
- Children: 15.000 yen
2. JR East Rail Pass – Nagano & Niigata Area
The second option is the JR East Rail Pass – Nagano & Niigata Area, which covers the western region from Tokyo.
Its coverage is slightly smaller than the Tohoku Area, but it is also more affordable.
This pass is valid for five consecutive days and is ideal for those who want to visit the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival in Niigata during summer or go skiing in Karuizawa and GALA Yuzawa in winter.
If you have extra time and energy, you can also stop by Nikko to enjoy the hot springs!
- Price:
- Adults: 27.000 yen
- Children: 13.500 yen
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3. JR Tokyo Wide Pass
The third ticket is the JR Tokyo Wide Pass, which covers a smaller area and is valid for three consecutive days.
This pass is perfect for those with a short holiday, such as a long weekend or a one-day leave, and want to explore areas around Tokyo.
Popular destinations such as Echigo-Yuzawa, Nikko, Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and Izu are also included in this pass!
- Current Price:
- Adults: 15.000 yen
- Children: 7.500 yen
4. JR Hokkaido Round-Trip Discount Ticket
Although this is not a JR PASS with unlimited travel, if you’re planning a long journey within Hokkaido, it’s best to purchase an “S-Kippu” (non-reserved seat ticket) or an “R-Kippu” (reserved seat ticket).
This ticket offers about a 35% discount and can be purchased directly at JR Hokkaido ticket vending machines on the day of departure—very convenient!
These are some of the JR PASS options available for foreigners residing in Japan.
As long as you do not hold a Japanese passport, these tickets can be purchased through the official JR website, Green Windows, or travel agencies.
Aside from the passes listed above, you may also want to consider tabiwa discount tickets, which are also available for foreign residents in Japan.
So, before your trip, make sure to check for the ticket that best suits your travel needs!
