Order Your JRPass
Back to Regional Passes

JR Pass Advice for Our Trip in March 2026

luisa
luisa
10 days ago
1 answer

Hi there!
I hope you’re doing well! My husband and I are planning our very first trip to Japan in March 2026, and we’re really excited to explore the Kansai and Hiroshima areas. We’ve put together an itinerary that includes stops in Osaka, Kobe, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Iwakuni.

As we start looking into transportation, we’re wondering if getting a JR Pass would be a good idea. There are a few options like the Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass and the Kansai Wide Area Pass, but we’re not sure which one fits our plans best.
Would you be able to help us with a few questions?

1) Which pass would save us the most money based on our route?

2) Is it better to get two different regional passes or just pay for tickets as we go?

3) How does the activation work—can we choose the start date?

We’d really appreciate any tips or advice you can share. Thanks so much in advance!

avatar
Daniel-san
19119 posts
8 days ago
Expert

Hi Kuisa,

Welcome to the forum!

1.) Could you post your trip day by day? This way I know your timing and can find the best match possible.

2.) I do think the Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass is a very good pass to start with, especially when you include: Osaka, Kobe, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Iwakuni. These are all included in the pass.

3.) You bring your pass voucher + passport to the JR Office, they will check the documents and then give you the pass. At this time, you can also select your starting date.

The date we ask on JRPass.com, is only meant as indication.

Kind regards,
Daniel


Looking for more information? Search the forum

Select Category

Instant Quote

Starting from $366.00 for 7 days of unlimited Japan Rail travel

Can’t find the answer?

Learn from over 18583 questions about the Japan Rail Pass, or ask our Japan Rail travel experts

Ask Question

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Visit us on Facebook

Get inspired for your visit to Japan by following us on Instagram and don't forget your own shots once you are there.


Find out where to buy the japan rail pass online.

Order your JRPass Now!

We have special prices for children and great first class options. See all tickets or see our range of Regional Passes