JR Tokyo Wide Pass Guide: Everything You Need!

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by Bethy

JR RAIL PASS TOKYO Wide Pass
If you're staying in Tokyo and thinking about a couple of day trips or an overnight stay in a nearby area, JR RAIL PASS TOKYO Wide Pass might be the best train pass for you in Japan. By planning ahead, you could save a lot of money on train travel in Tokyo, much more than if you bought tickets for each trip separately.
JR RAIL PASS TOKYO Wide Pass
JR RAIL PASS TOKYO Wide Pass
Duration: 3 days
Voucher + E-Voucher
4.8/5 | Departs from Tokyo
from US$108.62
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What is JR RAIL PASS TOKYO Wide Pass?

The JR TOKYO Wide Pass grants three days of unlimited travel on specific trains and Shinkansen within Tokyo and its surrounding regions. It enables you to explore Tokyo, visit famous destinations like Nikko, the Fuji Five Lakes (including Lake Kawaguchi), and Mount Fuji, or relax at hot spring resorts in Karuizawa, Kusatsu, and the Izu Peninsula, among other noteworthy locations.
Validity periodCoverage AreasPriceBooking link
3 consecutive daysIn and Around TokyoUS$108.62Book Now!

Lines Covered by the JR TOKYO Wide Pass

Lines Covered by the JR TOKYO Wide Pass
Discover the breadth of travel options available with your JR Tokyo Wide Pass. Below is a breakdown of the JR lines and corresponding popular destinations you can explore:
JR Line or ServicePopular Destinations
JR EAST LinesNarita Airport (via Narita Express), Karuizawa (via Hokuriku Shinkansen)
Tokyo MonorailHaneda Airport
Izu Kyuko LineAtami, Ito, Shimoda (Izu Peninsula)
Fujikyu Railway LineFuji Five Lakes, Mt. Fuji, Fuji Q Highlands
Joshin Dentetsu LineGala Yuzawa (via Jōetsu Shinkansen)
Saitama New Urban Transit LineRailway Museum, Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine, Omiya Bonsai Village
Rinkai LineOdaiba Seaside Park, Tokyo Joypolis
Tobu Railway Lines (specific conditions)Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen (Express trains departing from or arriving at JR stations)

Notes:

  • Reserved seats in ordinary cars of express trains (Nikko, Kinugawa, and SPACIA Kinugawa) require through operation between JR East and Tobu Railway lines.
  • The JR TOKYO Wide Pass is only valid on Tobu Railway lines if the train either starts from or ends at a JR station.

Rail Cost Without the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

The JR Tokyo Wide Pass is an excellent opportunity for savings, especially beneficial for visitors keen on exploring beyond Tokyo to sought-after locations such as Nikko, the Fuji Five Lakes, the Izu Peninsula, Karuizawa, or the thermal spring resorts in Gunma. The following table demonstrates potential savings from using the pass, based on estimated return journey costs to these attractions (as of March 2024):
DestinationCost Without Pass (USD)
Nikko (via Tobu Railway)$19.8
Nikko (via Shinkansen)$69.3
Fuji Five Lakes (by bus)$29.7
Fuji Five Lakes (via limited express train)$49.5
Shimoda (via limited express train)$79.2
Kusatsu Onsen (via limited express train)$79.2
Karuizawa (via Shinkansen)$75.9
Kamakura$13.2
Given these savings, the JR Tokyo Wide Pass is an excellent choice for travellers aiming to maximise their experiences in Tokyo and its surrounding areas.

How to Get Your JR TOKYO Wide Pass

To obtain your JR TOKYO Wide Pass, simply order it online and then collect your pass from an electronic ticket machine at Narita International Airport Terminals 1 or 2, available 24/7. Ensure you bring your passport for identification and the QR code from your purchase to pick up your pass from one day before the start date.

Steps to Get JR TOKYO Wide Pass

For a smooth collection of your JR TOKYO Wide Pass, adhere to the following guidelines:
  • Required Documents: Present your passport for identification. Japanese passports are not accepted.
  • QR Code: Ensure you have the QR code that was generated when you purchased the Pass.
  • Collection Period: The pass can be collected from one day prior to the start date up to and including the start date itself. Collection before this period is not permitted.

Where to Get JR TOKYO Wide Pass

LocationDetails
Narita International Airport Terminal 1Open round the clock, every day of the year.
Narita International Airport Terminal 2Open round the clock, every day of the year.
JR EAST Travel Service CenterTicket Pick-up: 5:30 AM - 10:00 PM (via WAmazing Vending Machines)
Counter Service: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Temporary operating hours)
Below are two detailed maps of Narita International Airport, specifically showing Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. These maps include the precise locations of the JR Tokyo wide pass ticket machines for your reference.
How to Get Your JR TOKYO Wide Pass Where to Get JR TOKYO Wide Pass

JR TOKYO Wide Pass: Notes and Cancellation Policies

This guide outlines the essential notes and cancellation policies for the JR TOKYO Wide Pass to ensure you make the most of your travels. Please be aware that once your pass is booked, it is non-refundable, and changes to the date of the pass are not allowed after the booking has been made. Read on for details on usage restrictions, seat reservations, and other pertinent information to navigate your journey effectively.

Usage Restrictions

  • The pass is not valid on the Tokaido Shinkansen and JR buses.
  • Additional charges apply for travel outside the designated areas.
  • For Hayabusa, Komachi, and Gran Class, an extra fare (including limited express and GranClass fares) is necessary.
  • A separate ticket is needed for the First Class Car on the Fujikyuko Line's Fujisan View Express or any Fujikyu Railway service.

Seat Reservations

  • To reserve a seat at no extra cost, present your JR TOKYO Wide Pass at any JR Ticket Office or JR Travel Service Center before your journey. Note that holding a pass does not guarantee the availability of reserved seats.
  • The pass allows travel in non-reserved seats, though availability may vary by train.
  • Reserved seats are mandatory for the Hayate, Narita Express, Nikko, Kinugawa, and SPACIA Kinugawa trains, with some exceptions outside the JR network (inquire with staff for more information). Reservation tickets are essential for these services.

Additional Notes:

  • For travel on Tobu Railway express trains, the service must start or end at a JR station.
  • Gala Yuzawa Station operates seasonally, from winter through to spring.

JR TOKYO Wide Pass: Cancellation Policy

SituationCancellation Fee
Before the start date0%
On the start date10%
After the start date without prior notice100%
Note: Partial cancellations are not allowed. If you need to cancel after using part of a multi-ticket order, the entire order must be cancelled and reordered.

JR TOKYO Wide Pass: Refund Policy

  • Train Cancellations/Delays: No refunds for cancellations or delays.
  • Lost Passes: Lost JR TOKYO Wide Passes are not replaceable.
  • Unused Passes: Refunds are available only for unused passes, at JR TOKYO Wide Pass sales points.

How to Reserve a Seat with Your JR TOKYO Wide Pass

Reserve a Seat in Travel Service Centers or Ticket Offices

You're welcome to visit any JR East Travel Service Centers or JR Ticket Offices within the JR Tokyo Wide Pass area, known locally as みどりの窓口 (Midori no madoguchi). Simply present your pass, and the staff will assist with your seat reservation.

Using Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machines

For those preferring to handle reservations independently, Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machines offer a straightforward process. This method is suitable for groups of up to four, applicable on the Shinkansen, limited express trains, and more:
StepAction
1Choose “Reserved Seat”.
2Opt for “Reserve seat with discounted ticket”.
3Insert the pass (for up to 4 people).
4Enter departure and arrival stations, along with date and time.
5Click the “Search” button.
6Pick and confirm your train selection.
7Choose your preferred car and seat.
8Check the reservation details.
9Collect your seat reservation tickets.

Should you need assistance with seat reservations or have any questions, the station staff are always ready to help.

Should I Buy Tokyo Wide Pass?

When to buy the Tokyo Wide Pass

  • For day trips from Tokyo: If you're planning day trips to places like Lake Kawaguchiko, Nikko, Karuizawa, etc., the Tokyo Wide Pass is recommended because it can save you a lot of money on train fares.
  • Visiting hot spring resorts around Tokyo: It's great for travelling to multiple destinations such as Karuizawa, Kusatsu, Izu, and other famous hot spring resorts, helping you save on travel costs.
  • Planning at least one long trip from Tokyo: The pass pays off if you're doing long haul excursions from Tokyo to the mentioned areas or similar.

When NOT to buy the Tokyo Wide Pass

  • Staying within Tokyo/Yokohama only: If your travel is limited to the Tokyo and Yokohama area, it's generally cheaper to buy single tickets or use a rechargeable IC card because the pass isn't valid on subways or most private train lines.
  • Traveling far beyond Tokyo and its surrounding area: If you're planning to travel much further afield, you might be better off with a nationwide JR Pass or a regional JR East Pass for specific areas like Nagano and Niigata.
  • If you’re traveling with a Japanese friend: You need to show a non-Japanese passport to use this pass. Your Japanese friends or partner won't be able to buy this pass because of this rule.
  • The pass doesn't work on all train lines: You can't use the Tokyo Wide Pass on every train. It doesn't work on Tokyo and Yokohama's subways, nor on some specific shinkansen lines like Komachi, Tokaido, and Hayabusa. You also can't use it on buses or ferries.

JR Tokyo Wide Pass Alternatives

If the JR Tokyo Wide Pass doesn't suit your travel needs, there are several alternative options available. Here's a look at some convenient and cost-effective ways to travel without the Wide Pass:
OptionDescription
IC CardsRechargeable cards for railways, subways, and buses. Convenient for payments and transfers. Suica and Pasmo are available in Tokyo.
Tokyo 1-Day Ticket1-day unlimited access to JR lines, subways, and buses in central Tokyo. Costs 1,600 yen for adults and 800 yen for children.
Japan Rail PassUnlimited travel across Japan on trains, shinkansens, ferries, and buses. Available for 7, 14, and 21 days, with Green (First class) and ordinary passes.
JR East Pass (Tohoku area)5-day unlimited access in the Tohoku area on trains, shinkansens, and buses. Costs 20,000 yen for adults and 10,000 yen for children.
  • IC cards can be used at many vending machines and stores. Suica and Pasmo cards, including versions for tourists, are available for a 2,000 yen initial purchase (with 500 yen refundable).
  • The Tokyo 1-Day Ticket is valid for the central 23 wards of Tokyo.
  • The Japan Rail Pass offers significant savings for foreign tourists traveling extensively across Japan. It's more economical to purchase an exchange order for the pass overseas before arriving in Japan.
  • The JR East Pass for the Tohoku area allows travel on specified lines and services, excluding some JR buses and Tobu Railway lines where conditions apply.

Visit Top Attractions with the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

Explore the best of Tokyo and beyond with the JR Tokyo Wide Pass. I'll guide you through top attractions accessible via major stations and lines, making sure you make the most of your pass across this vibrant city and its surrounding areas.

Attractions around Main JR Stations

StationLocation & Features
AkihabaraLocated in 'Electric City', served by all major JR lines.
IkebukuroNorth-west side, served by Yamanote line & Narita Express.
ShibuyaConnects Shibuya ward with Yamanote line, private railways, subways.
ShimbashiNear Ginza (10 min walk) & Tsukiji Fish Market (15 min walk).
ShinagawaSouthern downtown, connects to Tokaido Shinkansen.
ShinjukuWorld's busiest, connects most JR & private lines, 3.5m passengers daily.
TokyoServed by Shinkansen, local JR lines, houses Kitchen Street.
UenoNorthern downtown, served by Shinkansen lines going north.

Tokyo Station Attractions

  • Imperial Palace: A short walk from Tokyo Station, offering lush gardens and historic structures.
  • KITTE: A shopping mall housed in the former Japan Postal Service building, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural exhibits.
  • Marunouchi Building: A high-rise building near Tokyo Station with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering views of the city and Tokyo Station.
  • Tokyo Character Street: Located inside Tokyo Station, it offers numerous shops dedicated to popular anime and game characters.
  • Tokyo Ramen Street: Also inside Tokyo Station, this is a great spot to enjoy some of Tokyo's best ramen.
Tokyo Station Attractions

KITTE

Tokyo Station Attractions

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Station Attractions

Tokyo Ramen Street

Ueno Station Attractions

  • Ueno Park: A large public park that's home to museums, a zoo, and during spring, beautiful cherry blossoms.
  • Tokyo National Museum: Located in Ueno Park, it's the oldest and largest museum in Japan, showcasing a comprehensive collection of art and antiquities.
  • Ueno Zoo: Japan’s oldest zoo, known for its pandas and diverse animal habitats.
Ueno Station Attractions

Ueno Park

Akihabara Station Attractions

  • Yodobashi Camera: A massive electronics store offering a wide range of gadgets, video games, toys, and more.
  • Maid Cafes: Unique cafes where servers dress as maids and engage in playful, themed interaction with guests.
  • Akiba Fukurou: An owl cafe where visitors can interact with owls, a unique and popular experience in Tokyo.
Akihabara Station Attractions

Akiba Fukurou

Ikebukuro Station Attractions

  • Sunshine City: A large complex with shopping, an aquarium, planetarium, and observation deck for panoramic views of Tokyo.
  • J-World Tokyo: An indoor theme park based on popular manga and anime series from the Weekly Shonen Jump magazine.
  • Ikebukuro West Gate Park: A popular area known from a TV drama, with various outdoor activities and events.
Ikebukuro Station Attractions

J-World Tokyo

Shibuya Station Attractions

  • Shibuya Crossing: The famous intersection known for the large crowds that cross in all directions with each light change.
  • Hachiko Statue: A statue commemorating the loyal dog Hachiko, known for his unwavering loyalty to his owner.
  • Shibuya 109: A trendy shopping center for young people, full of fashion boutiques.
Ikebukuro Station Attractions

Shibuya 109

Attractions around Main JR Lines

Fuji Five Lakes

🚆 Via the Fujikyu Railway Line

Fuji Wuhu is the general name of five lakes located in Yamanashi Prefecture around Mount Fuji. These five lakes are Kawaguchiko, Yamanashiko, West Lake, Benqi Lake and Jingjin Lake. They are all formed by the eruption of Mount Fuji. The beauty of Mount Fuji in winter is suffocating, and you can't tire of it. You can also soak in the soup and look at Mount Fuji.

Visit Top Attractions with the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

Gala Yuzawa

🚆 Via the Jōetsu Shinkansen

Access Gala Yuzawa directly via the Jōetsu Shinkansen. GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort offers exceptionally convenient transportation options. The resort is well-equipped with numerous facilities for dining, shopping, hot springs, and sightseeing. Even beginners can slide with great confidence. Take the Jōetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to GALA Yuzawa Station, which takes about 75 minutes. Highly recommended for first-timers!

Visit Top Attractions with the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

Tokyo Joypolis

🚆 Via the Rinkai Line

Tokyo Joypolis is a fun and unique way to spend your time. It’s a huge indoor amusement park in Odaiba with tons of cool stuff like roller coasters, VR games, and 3D simulators. You can also enjoy various types of shows, such as live performances and meet-and-greets with popular game characters. From the 3rd floor, you can get a stunning view of Tokyo’s skyline and the Bridge and sea.

Visit Top Attractions with the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

FAQs about JR Tokyo Wide Pass

  • Is JR Tokyo Wide Pass worth it?

    If you're planning to travel a lot and visit several cities in Japan, the JR Pass is definitely worth considering. It not only helps you save money on long trips but also offers extra benefits like discounts at some tourist spots, free seat reservations on JR trains, and makes traveling easier for those visiting Japan for the first time.
  • Can you use the JR Pass to travel around Tokyo?

    Yes, you can use the JR Pass to travel around Tokyo. The Japan Rail Pass gives you access to most of the major JR train lines in the city. With the pass and a good travel guide, you'll quickly become adept at finding your way through Tokyo's streets and stations.
  • What does the JR Tokyo wide pass cover?

    The JR Tokyo Wide Pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including shinkansen and limited express trains, and some non-JR lines in the Kanto area for three days. It was previously known as the JR Kanto Area Pass.
  • Can I buy Tokyo wide pass online?

    Yes, the Tokyo Wide Pass can be purchased online via Trip.com, where you can get a convenient and cost-effective deal.
  • Where can I get Tokyo wide pass?

    The Tokyo Wide Pass can be collected from designated vending machines after purchasing it online through Trip.com.
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