Japan Regional Rail Pass Comparison
The nationwide Japan Rail Pass has become expensive – for most trips regional passes are the cheaper choice. Here are all 12 major JR regional passes with prices, covered regions and duration. Filter by the region you plan to travel.
Which pass fits your route?
Add your stops in Tabiyume – the in-app pass calculator matches your real trips against every regional pass automatically.
Regional pass vs. nationwide pass
Since the nationwide Japan Rail Pass became much more expensive, it only pays off for many long distances across the country. If you focus your trip on one or two neighbouring regions, a regional pass is almost always cheaper – often for a fraction of the price.
- Kansai only (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara): Kansai Area Pass or Kansai Wide Area Pass.
- Kansai + Hiroshima: Sanyo–San'in Area Pass.
- Kyushu tour: JR Kyushu Rail Pass (all or northern only).
- Hokkaido: JR Hokkaido Rail Pass.
- Tokyo & surroundings / Tohoku: Tokyo Wide Pass or JR East Pass.
Tip: Two regional passes back to back (e.g. Kansai + Kyushu) are often cheaper than one nationwide pass – as long as they don't overlap in time.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Japanese regional rail pass?
A rail pass valid only in a specific region (e.g. Kansai or Kyushu), and therefore much cheaper than the nationwide Japan Rail Pass. Ideal if you focus on one region.
Regional pass or nationwide pass – which is cheaper?
If you stay within one region, a regional pass is almost always cheaper. The nationwide pass only pays off for several far-apart regions in a short time (e.g. Tokyo + Kyoto + Fukuoka in one week). Check your exact route in the JR Pass calculator.
Can I combine several regional passes?
Yes – e.g. Kansai Wide + Kyushu instead of one expensive nationwide pass. The passes must be used consecutively (not overlapping), since each is valid for consecutive days.
Are regional passes valid on the Shinkansen?
Some are, some aren't. Each pass above is marked for Shinkansen. Example: Kansai Area Pass without Shinkansen, Kansai Wide Area Pass with.
Prices as of July 2026, Ordinary class, for orientation only. Actual prices, exact coverage and conditions vary – please check with the respective JR operator (linked). No guarantee.