Order Your JRPass
Back to General Japan Travel

Different visa type - are there alternatives to the JR Pass?

JohannaMeier
JohannaMeier
over 11 years ago
2 responses

Hello,

I am going to Tokyo to study there for 5 months. Since I have a student visa, I am not eligible for the Japan Rail Pass. However, I want to travel the country for a couple of weeks. Do you know how much a pass for 7 days costs normally? Can I buy something like that in Japan?

Thank you,

johanna

avatar
mari
1950 posts
over 11 years ago
Expert

Hi there,

I'm afraid there are no passes as good value as the Japan Rail Pass available for holders of other visas, however there are alternatives which can still save you money:

As a foreign passport holder you will be eligible for the JR-East Kanto Pass, so should you be in Tokyo this would be a good option to explore the surrounding area of Tokyo.

For other long distance discounted means of travel you could investigate highway buses, or low cost airlines such as Skymark, Peach or JetStar. While these are not as convenient as the JRPass (and you must factor in airport transfers into the low cost airline option), as you will be in Japan for 5 months you could think of visiting the sights bit by bit rather than in 1 trip?

Finally, if you don't mind not using the bullet train, you should look into the Seishun-18 kippu which does offer unlimited travel on normal JR trains (though is quite a bit slower).

Hope this helps!

JohannaMeier
JohannaMeier
2 posts
over 11 years ago

Thank you so much for the quick reply. This helps alot!


Looking for more information? Search the forum

Select Category

Instant Quote

Starting from $343.00 for 7 days of unlimited Japan Rail travel

Can’t find the answer?

Learn from over 17329 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