Which bullet train is not included in JR Pass?

Japan Rail Pass: Bullet Train Restrictions

The Japan Rail Pass (JRP) is an economical and convenient travel pass that allows unlimited travel on most Japan Railways (JR) Group trains, including bullet trains. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, and certain bullet train services are not covered by the JRP.

Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen Trains

The Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains are the fastest and most frequent bullet train services in Japan. They operate on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, connecting Tokyo with Osaka and other major cities in the Kansai region. The Nozomi and Mizuho trains are not included in the JRP, and passengers must purchase separate tickets to use them.

Alternative Bullet Train Services

If you are traveling with a JRP and need to use a bullet train service, you can opt for the following alternatives:

• Hikari: Hikari trains are slightly slower than the Nozomi and Mizuho trains but still offer a comfortable and convenient travel experience. They are covered by the JRP and stop at more stations, making them more convenient for travel to smaller cities.
• Sakura: Sakura trains are the successor to the Hikari trains and offer similar travel times and comfort levels. They are also covered by the JRP and stop at more stations.
• Kodama: Kodama trains are the slowest bullet train service but are the most affordable. They are covered by the JRP and stop at all stations on the Tokaido Shinkansen line.
• Tsubame: Tsubame trains operate on the Tohoku Shinkansen line, connecting Tokyo with Sendai and other cities in the Tohoku region. They are covered by the JRP and offer a convenient and comfortable travel experience.

Conclusion

The Japan Rail Pass is an excellent value for travelers planning to use JR trains extensively. However, it’s important to be aware of the exceptions to the pass’s coverage, including the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains. By opting for alternative bullet train services such as Hikari, Sakura, Kodama, or Tsubame, you can still enjoy the convenience and speed of bullet train travel while taking advantage of the savings offered by the JRP.