Japanese railway enthusiast John Walton shares advice on how to stretch your yen as far as possible on a train trip through Japan.
Whether you’re a train fanatic or not, exploring Japan by rail is an unparalleled experience. The country’s diverse railway network includes ultramodern trains, vintage carriages, steam locomotives, and everything in between, from leisurely rural journeys to the fast Shinkansen bullet trains that connect major cities.
Anyone traveling to Japan will likely use the train system at some point. Therefore, if you want to create a detailed travel itinerary to witness the best of the country, advanced planning is crucial. Here’s how to build your own Japan rail trip.
1. Define Your Must-Do List
Assess how much time you have and which destinations are on your must-visit list.
As with any trip, your itinerary will be dictated by the duration of your stay and the time of year you visit. Japan is most delightful in spring and autumn; however, summers can be very hot and humid, particularly south of Hokkaidō. Avoid national holiday periods like Golden Week (early May) and Obon (July or August), when tickets and accommodations become harder to secure, and many attractions may close.
Identifying the places to visit is entirely up to your interests. Consider focusing on themes such as visiting Japan’s original historic castles, exploring its renowned temples and Zen gardens, or indulging in vibrant city life. A themed approach will make plotting your stops on a map easier.
2. Determine Where to Start and Finish
Your arrival and departure points will influence your travel route.
The most common entry point for international travelers is Tokyo, which has Haneda and Narita airports. Haneda is closer to the city center, although Narita is well-connected to Tokyo Station by train, making it a convenient starting point.
Other major airports, such as Osaka Kansai, Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair, Sapporo’s New Chitose, and Fukuoka, are also viable gateways for their respective regions. Opting for an open-jaw itinerary—starting in one city and leaving from another—can maximize your travel experience and provide the opportunity to explore in-depth by train.
3. Choose the Right Pass for Your Journey
Selecting the right rail pass could save you money.
If your travels extend beyond a return trip between Tokyo and Kyoto, consider investing in a national Japan Rail Pass. This pass, designed specifically for travelers, comes in three versions:
- The 7-day pass costs ¥50,000 (approximately US$335).
- The 14-day pass costs ¥80,000 (around US$540).
- The 21-day pass costs ¥100,000 (approximately US$675).
Given that a one-way Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto stands at ¥13,080 (around US$90), these passes offer excellent value.
Additionally, regional passes can be economical options for specific areas, especially for longer trips:
- In Kyūshū, JR offers passes in 3-day (¥20,000), 5-day (¥22,500), and 7-day (¥25,000) formats.
- JR-East provides a 5-day Tohoku Area Pass for ¥30,000 and a Nagano-Niigata Area Pass for ¥27,000.
- JR-West offers various passes for Honshū, which can be quite extensive.
4. Plan Your Travel Time
Pay attention to the amount of time you want to spend aboard the train.
The cost of the rail pass can constitute a significant part of your travel budget, so planning is vital. The more you utilize the pass, the greater its value. As a rule of thumb, if staying in Japan for two weeks, it’s advisable to book a rail pass extending from a few days after your arrival until right before your departure.
5. Organize Your Weekend Travel Early
Weekend travel can reveal some of the most delightful trains.
Planning for weekends is crucial, as this is when themed cultural trains, known as Joyful Trains, operate. These trains not only provide scenic routes but also cater to various interests, often showcasing unique cultural themes.
6. Schedule Scenic Trips for the Week
Visit popular attractions during quieter midweek periods.
Once your weekend plans are sorted, consider filling in the weekday gaps with visits to popular attractions. With fewer tourists around, weekdays are ideal for exploring, and you’ll often find discounted rates for accommodations, particularly at traditional Japanese inns.
Immersing yourself in scenic train rides through Japan’s breathtaking countryside on weekdays offers a unique travel experience. Many long-distance Limited Express trains combine a slower pace while providing picturesque views.
Final Thoughts
Enhancing your Japanese travel experience can often mean indulging in local food. Try the delicious ekiben—bento box meals available at many stations—making it easy to enjoy a meal on the train. Utilize Japan’s outstanding luggage delivery services, like Kuroneko Yamato, to manage your belongings efficiently. This is especially beneficial during peak hours.
This guide provides useful insights into making the most of your rail experience in Japan while emphasizing practicality and cultural connection. With careful planning, your Japan rail journey can become an unforgettable adventure!
