Which bullet trains are not covered by JR Pass?

Bullet Trains Not Covered by Japan Rail Pass

When planning a trip to Japan and utilizing the convenient Japan Rail Pass, it’s important to be aware of the specific bullet trains that are not included in its coverage. The Japan Rail Pass covers a wide range of trains operated by Japan Railways (JR) Group, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains). However, there are a few exceptions to this coverage.

Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen Trains

The Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains are not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. These trains operate on the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines and offer the fastest travel times between major cities. However, they also come with higher ticket prices.

Reserved and Non-Reserved Seating

It’s important to note that while the Japan Rail Pass covers reserved and non-reserved seating on most JR Group trains, it does not cover these types of seating on Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains.

Alternative Bullet Trains

Instead of using Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains, pass holders can utilize other bullet train services that are included in the Japan Rail Pass. These include:

• Hikari: Hikari trains operate on the Tokaido line and offer slightly slower travel times than Nozomi trains.
• Sakura: Sakura trains operate on the Sanyo line and offer comparable travel times to Hikari trains.
• Kodama: Kodama trains operate on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines and offer the slowest travel times among the covered bullet trains.
• Tsubame: Tsubame trains operate on the Kyushu line and offer fast and comfortable travel between Fukuoka and major cities in Kyushu.

By choosing to travel on Hikari, Sakura, Kodama, or Tsubame trains instead of Nozomi or Mizuho Shinkansen trains, pass holders can still enjoy high-speed rail travel while saving money on ticket costs.

Conclusion

While the Japan Rail Pass offers convenient and cost-effective travel on JR Group trains, it’s essential to be aware of the exceptions to its coverage. By being informed about which bullet trains are not included, travelers can plan their itinerary accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.