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How much is a 1-day rail pass?

Must I purchase a JR rail pass to use the Nozomi train from Tokyo to Kyoto?

  • As I understand it, a person visiting Japan must purchase a JR Rail pass exchange prior to entering Japan. However I'm also told that the Nozomi trains are one of the very few trains on the JR network that cannot be used with the Japan Rail Pass. Can I purchase a ticket for the Nozomi train, as a visitor without buying a JR Rail pass?

  • Answer:

    You can buy tickets for any train when you're in Japan. The rail pass is just so that foreigners can save money if they're going to take a lot of trains but you're not allowed to use it on the fastest bullet train. The JR rail pass is only a good deal if you are going to travel far to a couple cities. You can look up prices and schedules in English on their site and then decide for yourself. If you have the pass and take the slower bullet train (it's still very fast), just flash the pass to the attendant and walk right through and then get on the next train. I was nervous thinking I needed to make a reservation in case there wasn't room but there was no need to. Perhaps only need reservations during very busy tourist time in Japan--my guess would be Golden Week and New Year's. shinkansen information http://english.jr-central.co.jp/info/index.html

Steve W at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

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The JR Pass is only available for purchase outside of Japan. That's why you must purchase a JR Pass prior to entering Japan. However, you are not required to purchase any JR Pass for visiting Japan. The stiff language describing the JR Pass may have confused you. Nozomi tickets are available for purchase to foreign tourists. Tickets are available up to one month in advance. They take credit cards.

Leftcoast USA

It's not "must" to purchase JR Rail Pass. Who gave you that false information? It's a convenient pass, but not a must. You can buy Nozomi ticket anytime.

thecheapest902

I think that you don't need to buy a ticket for the Nozomi. Check the next blog, and decide it.

Taro F

you can buy a nozomi train ticket in japan without the jr pass however if you plan to travel on the trains a lot you should get the jr pass.. it'll save you a lot of money. the difference between the nozomi and hikari (next fastest train) is only like 10-15 minutes difference

vancouver_syndicate

Yes. You can buy tickets for any train without having a JR pass.

Ian F

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