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Travel Smart Across Central Japan

Explore Japan’s Heartland with the JR Central Pass

Your Gateway to Heritage, Nature, and Timeless Beauty
Explore Japan’s heritage, nature, and scenic beauty easily with the JR Central’s regional passes. The Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass simplifies travel around Takayama and nearby regions. Read More.

What is the JR Central Pass?

The JR  Central Pass refers to a selection of exclusive rail passes offered by the Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central / JR Tokai), available only to foreign tourists on a Temporary Visitor visa. These passes allow unlimited rides on eligible JR Central-operated trains, including Limited Express and Shinkansen (partial routes) across designated regions in Central Japan, such as Nagoya, Takayama, Shizuoka, Matsumoto, and Ise.

Popular options include the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass, Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Pass, Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Pass, and the Mt. Fuji-Shizuoka Area Mini Pass, each tailored to unique travel routes in the region.

The JR  Central Pass is ideal for international travellers looking to explore the historic heart of Japan, beyond just Tokyo or Kyoto. If your itinerary includes places like Takayama’s old town, Shirakawa-go’s UNESCO-listed villages, Ise’s sacred shrines, Mount Fuji’s southern foothills, or the Japanese Alps, this pass offers cost-effective, flexible travel over several days.

It is especially beneficial for those planning multiple long-distance train rides, including connections by bus or private rail, within Central Japan.

  • Unlimited rides on designated JR Central trains (plus buses and some private lines)
  • Great value for long-distance and multi-stop travel
  • Access to Mt. Fuji, Takayama, Ise Shrine, Matsumoto, and more
  • Exclusive for foreign tourists under Temporary Visitor status
  • No need for separate tickets during the valid period
  • Perfect for exploring a mix of major cities and hidden cultural destinations in Central Japan
Use the table below to quickly identify the best JR  Central pass for your travel itinerary across Central Japan from Mount Fuji to the Japan Alps and ancient shrines.
If you plan to visit… Recommended Pass Duration Why This Pass?
Takayama, Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Toyama, Kyoto, Osaka Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass *Map 5 consecutive days Combines Central and Western Japan; includes buses to Shirakawa-go and access to Kansai cities
Ise Grand Shrine, Kumano Kodo, Wakayama, Shingu Ise Kumano Wakayama Area Tourist Pass *Map 5 consecutive days Covers sacred shrines and pilgrimage trails with JR and bus connections from Nagoya to Kansai
Alpine Route, Takayama, Matsumoto, Kamikochi Alpine Takayama Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass *Map 5 consecutive days Ideal for nature lovers exploring the Japan Alps and scenic bus routes; includes Shin-Hotaka Ropeway access
Mount Fuji, Shizuoka, Lake Hamana, Tea Fields Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Area Mini Pass *Map 3 consecutive days Budget-friendly and perfect for short regional trips to see Fuji, coastlines, and green tea farms

• Unlimited rides on eligible JR Central (JR Tokai) trains in designated regions
• Limited Express trains connecting cities like Nagoya, Takayama, Matsumoto, Ise, and Shizuoka
• Select routes on the Tokaido Shinkansen (between Nagoya and certain stations)
• Local JR trains, rapid and express trains within pass zones
• Bus lines and private railways (e.g., Nohi Bus, Meitetsu Bus, and Fujikyu Railway — depending on the pass)
• Discounts on ropeways, ferries, and cultural attractions (varies by pass)

Unlike standard train tickets, JR  Central Passes include a range of exclusive benefits designed for international travellers:

• Free seat reservations on Limited Express and selected Shinkansen trains
  – Most passes allow unlimited free reservations
  – The Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass includes up to 6 free seat reservations
• Valid for 3 or 5 consecutive days, depending on the pass
• Access to popular tourist buses, including routes to Shirakawa-go, Kamikochi, and the Kumano Kodo area
• Easy booking with paperless options or QR code activation at stations
• No need to buy separate tickets for each trip within the covered area
• Travel across multiple regions with a single pass — perfect for flexible exploration

Summary Table

TypePass DurationItinerary ExampleTotal Value
Without Pass
Pass PriceEstimated Savings
Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass
*Physical only
5 DaysNagoya → Takayama → Shirakawa-go → Kanazawa → Osaka24,150 Yen19,800 Yen~4,350 Yen saved
Ise Kumano Wakayama Area Pass
*Physical only
5 DaysNagoya → Ise → Shingu (Kumano) → Wakayama → Osaka27,000+ Yen16,500 Yen~10,500+ Yen saved
Alpine Takayama Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass
*Physical only
5 DaysNagoya → Takayama → Shin-Hotaka → Matsumoto → Nagoya26,000+ Yen24,000 Yen~2,000+ Yen saved
Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Area Mini Pass
*Physical only
3 DaysNagoya → Shizuoka → Fujinomiya → Lake Hamana → Nagoya11,000+ Yen6,500 Yen~4,500+ Yen saved

Depending on the pass type, you can unlock some of Central Japan’s most captivating regions, known for their historic charm, spiritual sites, scenic landscapes, and alpine escapes. Here is where the JR  Central Pass can take you:

  • Takayama – A beautifully preserved mountain town with Edo-period streets, morning markets, and Hida beef
  • Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and winter illuminations
  • Kanazawa – Home to Kenrokuen (one of Japan’s top gardens), samurai districts, and vibrant art museums
  • Ise – Spiritual capital of Japan, featuring the sacred Ise Grand Shrine and traditional food stalls in Okage Yokocho
  • Kumano (Shingu, Nachi) – Explore the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, towering Nachi Falls, and hidden spiritual gems
  • Matsumoto – Visit one of Japan’s oldest castles and gateway to the Northern Alps and Kamikochi highland trails
  • Mount Fuji (via Shizuoka) – Southern views of Japan’s most iconic mountain, plus tea farms, lakes, and coastal beauty
  • Nagoya – A central transport hub with Nagoya Castle, modern museums, shopping, and famous hitsumabushi eel rice
  • Hamamatsu & Lake Hamana – Enjoy hot springs, flower gardens, and water sports along this coastal retreat

Each JR  Central Pass unlocks a specific route of must-visit locations in Central Japan,  ideal for cultural immersion, scenic rail travel, hot spring getaways, and alpine adventures.

Key Destinations to Explore with the JR Central Pass

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How to Purchase and Use the JR Central Pass

JRPass

Step 1: Purchase Your JR Central Pass

  • Buy online from an authorized travel agent, H.I.S. Travel Malaysia, before arriving in Japan.
  • Choose the regional pass that fits your itinerary:
    • Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass (5 Days)
    • IseKumano Wakayama Area Pass (5 Days)
    • Alpine Takayama Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass (5 Days)
    • Mt. Fuji- Shizuoka Area Mini Pass (3 Days)
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Step 2: Exchange or Activate Your JR Central Pass in Japan

  • Major locations include: Nagoya Station, Takayama Station, Shizuoka Station, Kanazawa Station, and Centrair (Chubu International Airport).
  • Present your Exchange Order and passport (with Temporary Visitor stamp).
  • Select your preferred activation date, which can be up to 30 days after exchange.
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Step 3: Use Your JR Central Pass with Ease

  • Show your pass at manned JR gates — no need for individual tickets.
  • Enjoy unlimited rides on:
    • Designated Limited Express and Local JR Central trains
    • Select Tokaido Shinkansen segments (depending on pass)
    • Tourist buses, private lines, and local transportation (included in some passes)
  • Make seat reservations for free at Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket counters or designated ticket machines.

Important Notes 

  • Always carry your passport when traveling with a JR  Central Pass.
  • JR staff may request to verify your visa status during gate entry or onboard checks.
  • Passes are valid for consecutive calendar days starting from the first day of use.
  • Handle the pass carefully as it is non-replaceable and non-refundable if lost
  • Seat reservation limits may apply depending on the pass type.

Customer Reviews

Shamsuddin

⭐5/5

We used the Takayama-Hokuriku Pass to travel from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go and Osaka. Covered everything, and seat reservations were so easy.

Anna

⭐5/5

I visited Ise Grand Shrine and Kumano Kodo using the Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Pass. Everything was seamless and deeply meaningful.

Myra

⭐5/5

I saved more than 10,000 Yen compared to buying separate tickets! Used the Alpine Takayama Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass for an unforgettable 5days trip.

Prisha

⭐5/5

Didn’t plan everything in advance, but I was able to hop between Nagoya, Toyama, and Kanazawa easily.

Chris Yap

⭐5/5

It was amazing to travel from Ise to Nachi Falls with just one ticket. The pass made it all possible.

Noraini

⭐5/5

I used the Takayama Hokuriku Pass and could choose which train to take anytime. Super flexible and worth it.

Hafiza

⭐5/5

Travelled with kids and the pass made everything smoother. We used the Shizuoka Mini Pass for Mt. Fuji views.

Zukhairi

⭐5/5

Traveling alone, I found the Pass easy to use, even on local buses. Very traveller friendly.

Kayra

⭐5/5

Very few passes cover sacred areas like Kumano Nachi. This one does and even includes buses.

Parvati

⭐5/5

We travelled as a family of 4 and visited Ise Shrine and the coast. Smooth rides, beautiful nature.

Saraswati

⭐5/5

The Alpine Route was breathtaking, and the buses to Shin-Hotaka Ropeway were included. Great value.

Jacklyn

⭐5/5

Even during peak travel season, I had no trouble using the pass. Reserved my seats and travelled stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — JR Central Pass

JR Central Passes are regional rail passes for foreign tourists, providing unlimited rides on JR Central-operated trains across Central Japan. Depending on the pass type, coverage includes routes to Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Ise, Kumano, Kanazawa, Matsumoto, Shizuoka, and parts of the Alps and Fuji area.

Only foreign nationals visiting Japan under a Temporary Visitor visa status can purchase and use these passes.

No. JR Central Passes are strictly for non-resident foreign tourists.

Each pass has a fixed duration starting from the date of first use:

  • 5 consecutive days for most passes (e.g., Takayama-Hokuriku, Ise-Kumano-Wakayama, Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto)
  • 3 consecutive days for the Mt. Fuji-Shizuoka Mini Pass

Pass prices vary by region and duration.

Yes, but only on designated sections. For example, the Takayama-Hokuriku Pass includes the Hokuriku Shinkansen (Toyama–Kanazawa), but not the Tokaido Shinkansen (Nagoya–Osaka). Check each pass's official coverage.

Yes! Most JR  Central Passes cover trains departing from or passing through Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, Ise, Shizuoka, and more.

No. The pass is only valid on JR Central lines and designated transportation. It does not cover subways or private lines like Meitetsu or Kintetsu.

Yes, for Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya) via the Meitetsu line or connecting JR lines (depending on the pass). However, not all passes cover direct airport transfers—check coverage details.

Yes, most passes include Nohi Buses and Kaetsuno Buses to Shirakawa-go, and local buses in the Kumano region. These vary by pass.

Not directly. The passes do not include long-distance Tokaido Shinkansen segments between Tokyo and Kyoto. For intercity Shinkansen travel, consider the JR Nationwide Pass.

Yes!

  • The Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass covers buses to Shirakawa-go.
  • The Alpine Takayama Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass covers buses to Kamikochi and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Buy online via authorized agents like H.I.S. Travel Malaysia before arriving in Japan.

Yes, most JR  Central passes include free seat reservations for covered trains.

Up to 6 free reserved seats. After that, you will need to pay extra for more.

The Alpine Takayama Matsumoto, Ise Kumano Wakayama, and Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Mini Pass all allow unlimited free seat reservations on eligible trains.

Yes. Non-reserved seats are available on most trains without extra charge.

At any JR station’s Midori-no-Madoguchi counter, reserved-seat vending machine, or via online reservation systems (e.g., JR-West Online, SmartEX).

Exchange your Exchange Order at JR Central stations like Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, or Centrair Airport. Show your passport with Temporary Visitor stamp.

Yes, but only if you have not activated the pass yet. Once activated, the dates are fixed and cannot be modified.

Yes, some passes are available at major JR Central stations, but prices are usually higher in Japan than if purchased in advance online. You can purchase the Pass from authorized agents, such as H.I.S. Travel Malaysia.

Yes! Even in 3 to 5 days, you can save thousands of Yen if you are visiting 2 or more cities, or using longer train segments (e.g., Nagoya → Kanazawa → Osaka).

Use apps like NAVITIME Japan, Google Maps, or JR Central’s official English route planner to view train times and coverage.

Yes! The pass allows unlimited rides on eligible lines for the number of valid days. There are no ride limits per day.

Lost or stolen passes cannot be reissued. Please treat your pass like cash and keep it secure.

No. Most overnight or sleeper trains are not included. The pass is valid from the first train of the day until midnight.

Yes. Standard luggage is allowed. For large suitcases (over 160 cm) on Shinkansen, you may need a seat with a baggage area reservation.

Yes. Children aged 6–11 pay half the adult price. Children under 6 ride free if they do not occupy a seat.

Yes. You can cancel your Pass if it has not yet been exchanged in Japan. Refunds are available within 11 months of purchase, minus a 15% cancellation fee. The original Exchange Order must be returned to the issuing travel agency.