Which shinkansen cannot take JR Pass?

Which Shinkansen Can’t I Ride with a JR Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass is a fantastic way to explore Japan’s extensive rail network, offering access to a vast majority of Shinkansen (bullet train) lines. However, there are two notable exceptions that JR Pass holders need to be aware of: the Nozomi and Mizuho services.

While a JR Pass grants you access to a wide array of train types, including local, rapid, and limited express trains, plus the JR West Miyajima Ferry and bus rapid transit (BRT) lines, it specifically excludes these two premium Shinkansen options. This means if you want to travel on the Nozomi or Mizuho, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets.

Why are the Nozomi and Mizuho excluded?

These two Shinkansen services are the fastest and most frequent on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, connecting major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakata (Fukuoka). They are primarily designed for business travelers who prioritize speed and convenience and are operated by JR Central and JR West. These companies offer slightly different services and maintain these premium offerings outside the scope of the JR Pass.

What are my alternatives?

While you can’t board the Nozomi or Mizuho with a JR Pass, there are excellent alternatives available:

• Hikari: The Hikari Shinkansen runs on the same Tokaido and Sanyo lines as the Nozomi and Mizuho, making only a few more stops. This makes it a highly viable and often only slightly slower alternative.
• Sakura: The Sakura Shinkansen is the counterpart to the Mizuho on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, offering a similar route and comfortable journey with just a few additional stops.
• Kodama: The Kodama is the local Shinkansen, stopping at all stations along the Tokaido and Sanyo lines. While the slowest option, it offers a comprehensive view of the regions it traverses.

Planning your journey:

When planning your trip, use a journey planner app like Hyperdia or Navitime. These apps allow you to filter search results by train type, including “JR Pass valid” options. This ensures you select routes that are covered by your pass and avoid accidentally boarding the Nozomi or Mizuho. Being mindful of this will prevent any unexpected ticket purchases and keep your travel within budget.

In summary, while the JR Pass offers remarkable value and convenience, remember to plan around the Nozomi and Mizuho restrictions. By utilizing the readily available alternative Shinkansen services, you can still enjoy a smooth and efficient journey across Japan.