All About The JR Whole Japan Rail Pass
What is a JR Whole Japan Rail Pass?
- The JR Whole Japan Rail Pass is one of the most versatile JR passes as it covers almost all JR networks across Japan! This includes JR trains (Shinkansen, limited express, express, rapid, and local services), the Tokyo Monorail to/from Haneda Airport, the JR Ferry to Miyajima from Hiroshima, local JR bus services, and selected non-JR trains for isolated areas.
- The Whole Japan Rail Pass comes in 7, 14, and 21-day validity periods so you can choose the best one for your trip. Don’t worry if your trip doesn’t match the exact period of the JR pass, with some careful planning you can still get the most value out of your pass! ?
- JR Passes come in 2 types: Ordinary Car, and the more expensive Green Car. Green Car cabins on shinkansen and limited express trains are slightly more luxurious with bigger seats, foot rests, and personal luggage space. However from our experience, the Ordinary Car will be more than enough.
- Before you leave for your trip, make sure to book your JR Whole Japan Rail Pass on Klook. All JR passes must be purchased before you enter Japan, and upon purchase on Klook you will receive an Exchange Order (EO) to redeem for the physical pass at any JR office counter in Japan. You can also book a 7-Day JR Whole Japan Rail Pass Combo with 4G SIM card and pick up the SIM card in Osaka or Tokyo!
- EOs have to be exchanged for a JR Pass within 90 days of the purchase date. We recommend you purchase them 2 months before your trip in case of any last minute changes. Klook will deliver the EO between 3-5 days from the date of purchase, so don’t purchase it too late! You can also pick up your EO at selected locations. ☺️
- Upon arriving in Japan, you can redeem your EO for a JR Pass at any JR counter. JR counters can be found in all major airports in Japan including at KIX, Tokyo Narita, and Tokyo Haneda Airports.
- JR Passes have a validity of 30 days upon exchange, and you can select the activation date for the JR Pass for any 7/14/21 consecutive days during this 30-day period. It depends on your itinerary so there’s lots of flexibility! However, once you select the start date you can no longer change it so do plan ahead.
- You will receive a stamp on your JR Pass at the start of each day. For the rest of the day, simply show this pass to the station staff to enter the station.
- Klook’s JR Whole Japan Rail Pass also entitles you to any seat in a non-reserved car on a JR train so you won’t have to stand during your journey! Do note that for some services you are required to purchase a separate express ticket to reserve a seat. You can check which services require a separate fee here.
- We recommend you reserve a seat for shinkansen rides that take over 1 hour. Upon reservation, you will receive a light green ticket with the seat number printed on it. While the JR Whole Japan Rail Pass does guarantee you a seat in non-reserved cars, the trains can get extremely crowded during peak periods and you don’t want to be left standing!
Day 1: Arrive in Osaka
- Fly direct to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX) to begin your trip. A multi-city flight route is useful when your trip crosses multiple prefectures (like this one!) as you can choose to activate your JR pass on a later day. For this itinerary, book your return flight from either of Tokyo’s international airports (Narita Airport or Haneda Airport) as that will be where your trip ends.
- Some of the airlines that fly directly to KIX include:
- Singapore: Scoot, Jetstar, Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Malaysia: AirAsia X, Malaysia Airlines, JAL
- Indonesia: ANA, JAL
- Redeem your EO at the JR office in KIX once you arrive. Redemption will require you to fill out passport details for each individual getting a pass, so do remember to factor the time taken into your itinerary! The KIX ticket office is open daily between 5.30AM - 11PM.
- Upon redemption, you’ll have to select which day to activate the pass. For this itinerary, redeem your Whole Japan Rail Pass on the day you arrive.
- Take the JR Kansai-Airport line to Hineno station, and transfer to the JR Hanwa line. Travel to Tennoji Station, where you can take the JR Osaka Loop line to reach your hotel. Check out this list of 10 accommodations in Osaka near halal food for an idea of where to stay! The JR Osaka Loop line covers most of the major stations within Osaka - and since your Whole Japan Rail Pass includes local lines it’s free for you to use!
- After you’ve checked in, catch a glimpse of traditional Osaka at Osaka Castle, before enjoying the vibrant super-modern lights of the Dotonbori district in the evening.
- Treat yourself to Osaka-style okonomiyaki at Chibo’s first Muslim-friendly outlet located in the heart of Dotonbori! Dig into the savoury pancake right off the grill, or enjoy other local favourites such as yakisoba (fried noodles), and wagyu ?
- #HHWT Tip:Click here for 16 more halal options you can find around Osaka!
Day 2: Day trip to Hiroshima
- Start your day bright and early by boarding a JR train at Shin-Osaka station on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, bound for Hiroshima! Do note that Osaka and Shin-Osaka are different stations, and the shinkansen only passes through Shin-Osaka station. ?
- There are several trains that run along the Sanyo Shinkansen line, but only the Sakura and Hikari trains are covered by the Whole Japan Rail Pass. The Sakura train takes roughly 1.5 hours, whereas the Hikari train takes at least 2.5 hours. Some of the earlier Hikari trains (before 8.40AM) may take 2 hours or less. You can use JR West’s official timetable and route finder to figure out which timings are available for you.
- Hiroshima is a must-visit city for history buffs, and for the convenience of visitors there’s a hop-on-hop-off Sightseeing Loop Bus (“Hiroshima meipuru-pu”) that covers all major historic sites. Better yet, the Whole Japan Rail Pass includes unlimited rides on the bus! Simply present your Whole Japan Rail Pass to the driver to enjoy your ride. ?
- Hop onto the bus’s orange, green or lemon routes and head for the Atomic Bomb Dome. The Dome is close to the hypocenter where the bomb was dropped, and is a humbling reminder of the brutality of war.
- Nearby the Dome, the Peace Memorial Park is worth a walk to see the structures erected in memory of the victims. Make sure to take a brief stop at the Children’s Peace Memorial, which is specially dedicated to the child victims of the bomb.
- For a more in-depth look at the legacy of the bomb, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum located in the park. Do note that some exhibitions may be graphic or unsettling.
- Take a midday break for lunch at Karsiyaka, which is across the river from the museum. Karsiyaka serves delicious and authentic Turkish food, and there’s even a prayer space on the premises so you can do your prayers before you leave. ?
- After a meaningful morning in Hiroshima, head back to Osaka for some lighter activities. If you’re interested in spending more time in Hiroshima and the wider Kansai region, you can opt for Klook’s exclusive JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass combo which includes a 5-Day JR Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass, a 1-day pass to the Hiroshima Sightseeing Cycle Bus, and tickets to Universal Studios Japan. The JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass included in the combo also includes cities such as Kobe and Himeji, and even ferry tickets to Miyajima to see the iconic Sika deer!
- Squeeze in some shopping at Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka’s largest shopping arcade. At 600 metres long, you’ll find all types of shops from familiar brands including UNIQLO, GU, Tokyu Hands, and ZARA, to chain stores and even small independent boutiques. You can even claim a tax rebate exclusively for visitors at selected shops! ?
- For dinner, tuck into a delicious bowl of ramen at Naritaya’s Osaka branch! ?
- The rich broth and unique fusion options such as curry soupless noodles are just what you need to end the day right. ? If you feel like treating yourself, they even have wagyu curry and wagyu yakiniku rice bowls!
Day 3: Universal Studios Japan
- When you’re in Osaka, you can’t miss out on Universal Studios Japan (USJ)! Home to the only Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ outside of the USA, USJ is a dream come true for visitors of all ages. ?
- Getting to USJ is easy with the Whole Japan Rail Pass which gives you access to all local JR lines in Osaka too!
- Make sure to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ to enjoy a cup of butterbeer (non-alcoholic), choose your own wand at Ollivanders, and explore Hogwarts Castle with Harry and his friends. If you’re planning to visit at the end of the year, stick around to see Hogwarts Castle all lit up for a special night show. ??♀️
- If you’re planning to see all of USJ in 1 day, you definitely have to go on popular rides such as The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man - The Ride 4K3D, Jurassic Park - The Ride, and Hollywood Dream - The Ride.
- Kids will also have an amazing time meeting their favourite characters including Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and the Sesame Street gang at Universal Wonderland! ?
- If you’re looking for a place to do your prayers, you can use one of the family service rooms located in Universal Wonderland. Ablution can be taken at a nearby bathroom. Do remember to bring your own prayer garment and mat.
- #HHWT Tip: Want to spend more time at USJ? Check out Klook’s exclusive JR West combos that include early admission access to USJ and even more attractions to enjoy around Osaka!
- If you’re purchasing a JR West combo make sure to use these exclusive codes to get an additional discount off the offers: TRAVELHHWTSG ($10 off for new Singapore users, min. spend of $80), TRAVELHHWTMY (RM30 off for new Malaysia users, min. spend of RM240), and TRAVELHHWTID (IDR100,000 off for new Indonesia users, min. spend of IDR800,000).
- For lunch and dinner, you can now enjoy Muslim-friendly meals at the Red Lobster in Universal Citywalk located outside the park. One-time re-entry is allowed for guests who are unable to dine in the park premises due to dietary restrictions - do approach a staff member to get your hand stamped before exiting the park.
- Red Lobster’s Muslim meals include fried oysters with rice, vegetable penne pasta, and butter chicken curry with rice. Perfect for a midday refuel or a rewarding meal at the end of a tiring day.
Day 4: Goodbye Osaka, Hello Kyoto!
- For your last day in Osaka, explore the old city with a visit to the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Spanning 2 floors of the building, you won’t believe your eyes when you step into the upper floor, which recreates an old Edo-period street!
- Walk past wooden houses and interactive exhibits that give you a chance to see what everyday life was like in Osaka. There’s even a kimono rental shop within the museum so you can put on a beautiful kimono or yukata and truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time. If you want to experience the beauty of the kimono outside the museum, you can also rent a kimono for a day to wear around the city! ☺️
- If you’re a fan of samurais and ninjas, check out Klook’s exclusive JR West pass combo combo that includes tickets to USJ, a regional pass for the Kansai region, and tickets to Toei Kyoto Studio Park - the only theme park in Japan based on period dramas!
- P.S. If you’re purchasing a JR West combo make sure to use these exclusive codes to get an additional discount: TRAVELHHWTSG ($10 off for new Singapore users, min. spend of $80), TRAVELHHWTMY (RM30 off for new Malaysia users, min. spend of RM240), and TRAVELHHWTID (IDR100,000 off for new Indonesia users, min. spend of IDR800,000).
- Make sure to stop by the Pokemon Centre at Osaka station before leaving for Kyoto! Located on 13F of the Daimaru Umeda department store, you’ll find everything from plushies to backpacks to keychains and even stationery of your favourite pokemon!
- Have you fallen in love with Osaka and Kyoto yet? ? If you want to want to explore these cities and the Kansai region more, check out Klook’s exclusive range of JR West pass combos that include tickets to USJ, and a regional pass that covers Kyoto, Osaka, and the Kansai region! The combos are a way more affordable alternative if you only want to explore the Kansai region during your trip.
- It’s time to explore the next city - Kyoto! To get to Kyoto, take the Sakura or Hikari trains on the Sanyo Shinkansen line. The trip between Shin-Osaka to Kyoto station is one of the shortest between major cities - it can take just 15 minutes for a direct connection!
- Make sure to use JR West’s official timetable and route finder to figure out which timings are suitable for you. The flexibility of the Whole Japan Rail Pass means you don’t have to reserve a particular timing beforehand, but do take note that some trains may have an additional stop that will add more travel time to your journey. As a bonus, using the Whole Japan Rail Pass ensures that you’ll have a reserved seat during all of your train journeys! ?
- Once you’ve arrived in Kyoto, check into your hotel and head out for one of the most popular halal eateries in the city - Ayam-ya! Their chicken broth, slices of chicken char siu, and perfectly cooked ramen egg have made them one of our (and our readers’) favourite spots in Kyoto for sure. ?
- Their current location can be a little bit confusing to get to as it's down an alleyway. Just keep an eye out for the large menu board located outside the entrance so you won't miss the corridor leading to the store!
- Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful district of Gion. Preserved to retain its old-world charm, the wooden storefronts are home to teahouses, cafes, and souvenir shops.
- If you visit Gion in the evening or after nightfall, you may even get the chance to see geiko (better known as Geisha) or maiko (geiko-in-training) doing their rounds. Do note that visitors should not take invasive photos, disturb, or crowd them, as they are in the middle of work.
- To bring back a souvenir that’s uniquely Japanese, head to Eiraku-ya’s Gion store to pick up some beautiful cotton fabric. The shop dates back to 1615(!) and has so many gorgeous designs that are perfect as tea towels, gifts, and wraps.
Day 5: Day Trip to Nara
- One of the best day trips to take from Kyoto is definitely a visit to Nara. The journey there is between 1 hour to 1.5 hours long and since your Whole Japan Rail Pass is still active you don’t have to worry about any additional fares.
- Nara Park is the most popular attraction in the city and is famous for housing over 1000 friendly deer! The deer are used to visitors and may even approach you. Do note that some may try to grab or eat your food, but they are generally quite peaceful. ?
- We recommend spending the whole day enjoying the peacefulness of Nara Park - apart from the deer, there are other attractions such as Kokofu-ji Temple and the Isui-en Gardens. After several days of non-stop adventure, a visit to Nara is the perfect way to soothe your soul and leave you feeling rejuvenated.
- Have a satisfying meal at Naramachi Jinniyah, which sells delicious halal ramen at affordable prices. Located in the older neighbourhood of Naramachi, you can get a serving of teriyaki chicken rice bowl from just JPY500 without skimping out on a high-quality taste!
- The restaurant also has some tatami-style seating so you can sit on the floor to slurp up your noodles in an authentically Japanese style.
- P.S. Do note that reservations are required at least 2 days in advance, and there is a minimum spend of JPY1000 per pax.
- Head back to Kyoto to visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. The golden hour before sunset is one of the best times to catch the gorgeous glow of the vermillion red torii gates - so make sure to plan out your train timings to arrive in time! If you want to explore more of Kyoto's iconic sights, check out this 3D2N Kyoto itinerary that includes Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion!
- The mid-afternoon is usually the most crowded period for the shrine, so try going on a weekday morning or near sunset to avoid the crowds.
- If you’re feeling ambitious enough you can even hike to the top of Inariyama (Mount Inari) to see Kyoto in a whole new light! Do note that this trek may take several hours to complete, and we recommend starting the trek earlier in the day as it can get quite dark. The higher up you go the less of a crowd you’ll have to face - but do remember you’ll still need to walk all the way down afterwards! ?
- Looking for somewhere to have a meal at the end of a long day? Click here for 12 delicious halal eateries you can find in Kyoto!
Day 6: Time to head to Tokyo!
- Start your last morning in Kyoto by visiting the iconic Nishiki Market! The market officially opens at 9.30AM but if you want to avoid the crowds try to arrive at 9AM as it fills up fast.
- Nishiki Market is a mix of wholesale groceries, ready-to-eat snacks, and lots of souvenir shops selling tea, pottery, sweets, and more. Look out for a Shichimi (Seven spice) shop that sells all kinds of spice mixes you can bring back home to remind you of Kyoto. ? Do note that the product is not halal-certified, but the basic 7-spice mix contain only ground up herbs and spices with no extra ingredients.
- While there are no halal-certified eateries in Nishiki Market, there are several Muslim-friendly stalls that sell only fresh seafood (you can request to not have soy sauce added) and nuts (which are the perfect snack). We recommend that you consult with the staff before purchasing anything, and to dine at your own discretion.
- Have your last meal in Kyoto at Nanzan’s newest outlet at Kyoto station - Nanzan Gyu Terroir. Famous for their wagyu beef, this outlet is not a yakiniku outlet but instead serves wagyu don and other rice meals. The location also makes it super convenient to grab a delicious bite before heading onto the shinkansen. ?
- Remember to exchange your ICOCA card for a refund at Kyoto station! You won’t be able to refund it in Tokyo. Once you reach Tokyo station you can purchase a Suica or Pasmo card to use within Tokyo itself. The Suica can also be pre-purchased on Klook for pickup in Tokyo! For more information on public transport in Tokyo, check out this useful guide!
- Settle in for your ride back to Tokyo on the Hikari or Sakura shinkansen. The journey takes at least 2.5 hours so this is a great time to catch up on your sleep. ? Long inter-prefecture journeys such as this one are very expensive if you’re using a single ticket, so you’ll make up the cost of the Whole Japan Rail Pass if you’re planning to take just 1 or 2 such trips!
- Once you arrive, take the JR Yamanote loop line to your accommodation. The Yamanote line is one of the most convenient transport lines in Tokyo as it covers all of the major neighbourhoods - and it’s covered under the Whole Japan Rail Pass so you won’t have to buy an extra ticket!
- After settling into your accommodation, head to Origami Asakusa for a traditional washoku (Japanese cuisine) meal. Not only is the restaurant interior beautifully designed with traditional Japanese elements, but their set meals consisting of individual dishes are just as breathtaking as they are delicious. ?
- Make sure to try their Origami Set where you can grill your own beef cutlet! They also have several desserts in their menu, including 2 types of cakes that will satisfy your sugar cravings.
Day 7: Odaiba (Final Day of JR Whole Japan Rail Pass)
- It’s the last day before your Whole Japan Rail Pass expires so it’s time to make the most of it by visiting the manmade island of Odaiba! Located in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a popular shopping and entertainment district with activities for everyone to enjoy.
- It’s easy to spend a whole day in Odaiba when you have attractions including Tokyo Joypolis (Japan’s largest indoor theme park – perfect for a rainy day! Click here to find out how you can include Joypolis in a 6D5N Tokyo itinerary.), Legoland, the Museum of Maritime Science, and a breath-taking 115-meter tall ferris wheel! ?
- When you’re heading back to your accommodation at the end of the day, make sure to take a moment to admire the Rainbow Bridge connecting Odaiba to the rest of Tokyo. Its nightly illumination and light shows make the bridge seem even more beautiful!
- One of Odaiba’s star attractions is definitely teamLab Borderless, which consists of 10,000 square meters of light projections, interactive displays, and mesmerizing digital art that’s utterly indescribable. Tickets sell out super quickly so pre-purchase yours to guarantee your spot in this cutting-edge light and art museum!
- For more ideas of what to do in Odaiba, check out day 5 of our 7D7N Budget-Friendly Tokyo Itinerary (Under RM3000)!
- Refuel at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza with a delicious bowl of halal Japanese soba at Sojibo!
- Located on the 6th floor of DiverCity, Sojibo sells everything from cold soba topped with vegetables and grated yam, to hot soba with fried shrimp tempura. They also have rice bowls with toppings such as chicken cutlet – no matter what you’re craving you’re sure to have an amazing meal here!
Day 8: Day Trip To Hakone & Mount Fuji
- There’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Mount Fuji up close - and with Klook’s Mt Fuji and Hakone Day Tour you can have a fuss-free day exploring Hakone and its surrounds!
- P.S. Here are 7 essential tips for the best Hakone and Mt Fuji experience ever!
- Start with a pick-up from selected hotels or Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal that will bring you to Mt Fuji 5th Station. The 5th station is the closest spot you can get to Mt Fuji without actually climbing it. While there are a total of 10 stations on the mountain, this is the highest station (2300 metres) that’s accessible by bus or car. ?
- If you purchase this tour on Klook, it even includes a Muslim-friendly lunch! Seafood and vegetarian options are available, and while the meal is not halal-certified, the tour operator has confirmed with us that no alcohol is used in any of the sauces. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.
- After the 5th Station, enjoy a leisurely cruise around Lake Ashi as you take in the fresh air and natural beauty of the lake region. Lake Ashi is not one of the famous 5 lakes around Mount Fuji, but it’s a beautiful spot that will take your breath away. A cruise is definitely the best way to fully take in its beauty! ?
- Finally, take a ride on the Mount Komagatake Ropeway to end your day. Mt Komagatake is located next to Lake Ashi, and while the ride up the mountain is just 7 minutes long you’ll see one of the most beautiful sceneries around on your way up! Klook’s one-day tour is perfect for visitors who want to see the breath-taking sights of Hakone in just one day.
- The bus will drop you off at Ginza, which is conveniently located in central Tokyo.
Day 9: Asakusa, Harajuku, & Shibuya
- Start your day in Asakusa, one of the neighbourhoods in central Tokyo that has retained its traditional charm.
- As your Whole Japan Rail Pass has expired, do purchase a Suica card from any subway or train station. You can also pre-purchase it on Klook and collect in Tokyo for extra convenience!
- The magnificent Senso-ji Temple is the biggest draw here, for visitors and locals alike. The complex can get crowded by mid-day so try to get there before 10am if you want to avoid the crowds. To make your experience more memorable, you can even rent a kimono from one of the numerous shops nearby!
- Right next door, Nakamise shopping street is where you’ll find shops selling all sorts of traditional goods and trinkets including hanging banners, children’s toys, and mini statuettes and figurines.
- Stop by Tokiwado Kaminari-okoshi to buy some yummy rice crackers. They come in a variety of flavours including black sesame, matcha, and caramel - and the products have been halal-certified by the Japan Halal Foundation! Do note that only the products with the halal logo are suitable, and not all products may bear the logo.
- Have lunch at Sushiken, which serves halal-certified sushi! You’ve never had seafood this fresh before. The menu also includes tendon bowls and side dishes so you can dig in to your heart’s content.
- #HHWT Tip: Looking for more halal Japanese food in Tokyo? Check out this article for over 20 options with everything from yakiniku to ramen! Asakusa has several halal eateries too so you’ll be spoilt for choice! ?
- After lunch, head over to the western side of Tokyo to experience the liveliness of Harajuku and Shibuya.
- Pay a visit to the Meiji-jingu shrine located next to Harajuku station. Believed to house the souls of the Meiji emperor and his empress, the shrine welcomes all visitors and is a rare spot of quiet in the busy city.
- From there, it’s a short walk away to Harajuku’s trendy Takeshita-dori which is a shopping haven when it comes to teenage culture and kawaii-type styles. There are also lots of shops selling knock-offs of fashionable items at incredibly low prices. If you're looking for a bargain discount, then this might be the place for you!
- P.S. Look out for IG-worthy spots nearby such as the Tokyo Plaza Omotesando Harajuku’s mirror-lined escalators!
- Wander through the alleys lined with small boutiques stuffed with the latest youth fashion, and you’ll eventually reach Shibuya. If you're a fan of vintage or secondhand clothing you'll be glad to know there are so many shops selling pre-loved apparel here! Some shops can be pricey (especially if it's selling vintage luxury brands) but the creative atmosphere and quirky mix of styles and trends will make it a worthwhile walk.
- Time your arrival in Shibuya with the late-afternoon post-work rush to see the famous Shibuya crossing come to life! ?
- End your day with ramen at Honolu Ebisu. Their chicken ramen comes with rich, flavourful broths that will have you wanting more. Order a side dish such as takoyaki or gyoza to complete your meal!
Day 10: Shinjuku & heading home
- End your trip with a quick visit to Shinjuku. One of the busiest neighbourhoods in Tokyo, there are so many hidden gems here you may not have heard of before. (Click here to find out what else you can do in Shinjuku!)
- See Tokyo in a new light from the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which has an observatory that’s free of charge! Keep an eye out for landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, Meiji Shrine, and even Mount Fuji if you’re lucky.
- Stop by Don Quijote’s (also known as Don Don Donki) biggest store at Shinjuku Higashiguchi. The sheer size of the store is worth half a day on its own, and it sells everything from snacks to clothing to gag gifts.
- #HHWT Tip: You can make duty-free purchases to avoid Japan’s high taxes - time to stock up on skincare, cosmetics, and souvenirs!
- It’s finally time to head back home. Make your way to either Haneda or Narita airport for your flight back. Both airports are easily accessible from central Tokyo, although Haneda is much closer. If you’re flying back from Narita make sure to check out our Muslim-friendly guide to Narita Airport!
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