When it comes to visiting Japan, the Kansai region is a must-see destination. Known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse culture, the Kansai region is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. And the best way to explore this beautiful region is by using a JR Pass for the Kansai region.
Who is Eligible to Buy the Pass?
The JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass can be purchased by anyone, regardless of nationality, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. These include:
- Having a valid passport: When purchasing the pass, a passport will be checked to verify the eligibility of the pass. (Well… Without a valid passport, you won’t be able to pass through the immigration. So it shouldn’t be a problem at all.)
- Being a temporary visitor to Japan: The JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass is only available for non-Japanese passport holders with “Temporary Visitor” entry status. It cannot be used by Japanese citizens or those who have a different type of visa.
It’s important to check your passport status and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements before purchasing the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass to avoid any confusion or disappointment during your travel.
Why buying the Pass is a Good Idea?
Coverage of the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass
The Kansai Wide Area Pass allows for unlimited use of JR trains within the Kansai region, which includes popular cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama. With the pass, you can save a significant amount of money compared to buying individual train tickets.
Over 50% off the Original Fare
Let’s take a look at an example. A 5-day Kansai Wide Area Pass costs JPY 10,000. On the first day, you take the Haruka train from Kansai Airport to Kyoto, which costs JPY 1,800. On the second day, you take the special express train between Kyoto and Amanohashidate, which costs JPY 9,980 for a round trip. With just these two days of travel, the total cost of train tickets exceeds the cost of the Kansai Wide Area Pass (JPY 11,780).
After breaking-even, we have 3 days left and we could plan for a round trip on the Shinkansen between Osaka and Okayama alone costs JPY 13,100, which is more expensive than the Kansai Wide Area Pass itself too. With that, we could easily have a lovely 2 days trip for Okayama.
Not only is the Kansai Wide Area Pass a great way to save money on train travel, but it also offers the convenience of unlimited travel within the Kansai region. This means you can travel at your own pace, without worrying about buying additional tickets or planning your route around ticket prices.
But also bear in mind that the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass is valid for 5 CONSECUTIVE days and allows you to use the Sanyo Shinkansen and the Hello Kitty Shinkansen for high-speed travels around the Kansai region.
Supported Routes & Trains
All non-reserved seat of Limited Express trains
- Maiduru (まいづる): Between Kyoto and Higashi-Maizuru
- Shirasagi (しらさぎ): Between Miyahara and Tsuruga, East of Lake Biwa
- Super Hakuto (スーパーはくと): Between Kyoto and Tottori
- Sandaabado (サンダーバード): Between Osaka and Tsuruga
- Super Inaba (スーパーいなば): Between Okayama and Tottori
- Kuroshio (くろしお): Between Kyoto and Shingu
- Haruka (はるか): Between Kansai Airport and Kyoto
- Kinosaki (きのさき): Between Kansai and Kinosaki Onsen
- Hamakaze (はまかぜ): Between Osaka and Kinosaki Onsen
- Kounotori (こうのとり): Between Shin-Osaka and Kinosaki Onsen
- Hashidate (はしだて): Between Kyoto and Hashidate
Shinkansen
Ordinary reserved seats on the Nozomi, Mizuho, Hikari, Kodama trains between Shin-Osaka and Okayama
JR Local Lines
All JR West Japan’s rapid, express, and local trains can be ridden
Private Railways
Wakayama Electric Railway: Between Wakayama and Kishi
How to Purchase
JR Passes for the Kansai region can be purchased both overseas and in Japan.
If you’re purchasing it overseas, you’ll need to make sure you have a valid exchange order. Once you arrive in Japan, you can exchange the order for the actual pass at any JR West Rail Pass exchange office.
If you’re already in Japan, you can purchase the pass at any JR West Rail Pass exchange office or authorized travel agents.
Recommended Tourist Spots
The Kansai region is home to many beautiful and historic tourist spots. Some of the must-see destinations include:
- Kyoto: Kayabuki No Sato, Amanohashidate
- Hyogo: Himeji Castle, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kinosaki Onsen
- Tottori: Tottori Sand Dunes, Karoichi Fish Market
- Shiga: Lake Biwa
Kayabuki No Sato | Miyama Thatched Village
Kayabuki No Sato is a must-visit for travelers to the Kansai region of Japan. This traditional thatched-roof village offers a glimpse into rural Japan with its 300-year-old houses, gardens, stores, restaurants, and cafes. Be sure to include Kayabuki No Sato in your Kansai itinerary for an unforgettable experience!
To visit Kayabuki No Sato, take the JR San’in Main Line to Sonobe Station.
Amanohashidate
Amanohashidate is one of the most famous spots in Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty. Located in the northern part of Kyoto prefecture, this 3.6 km sandbar is a natural bridge of pine trees and is said to be one of the three most scenic places in Japan. Visitors can take a boat tour, hike along the sandbar, or admire the view from the top of the nearby mountains.
To visit Amanohashidate, just take JR Miyazu Line to Amanohashidate Station.
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is a must-see for any traveler to the Kansai region. Located in the city of Himeji, the castle is one of the most iconic and well-preserved castles in Japan. It is known for its unique white-walled exterior and intricate design, which has earned it the nickname of “White Heron Castle”. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take in the impressive views from the top of the castle. With its stunning architecture and rich history, Himeji Castle is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the Kansai region.
To visit Himeji, travel with JR Kobe line to Himeji Station.
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is one of the most impressive engineering feats in the world. Spanning 1,991 meters and connecting the cities of Kobe and Awaji Island, the bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the world. Visitors can drive across the bridge, take a boat tour of the bridge, or admire the view from the bridge observatory. With its awe-inspiring design and stunning views, Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is a must-see for any traveler to the Kansai region.
To get to Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, take the JR Sanyo Line to Maiko Station.
Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen is a unique hot spring resort in the Kansai region. Located in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, the town is known for its picturesque canals, traditional ryokan inns, and seven public hot springs. Visitors can relax in the hot springs, explore the quaint streets, and enjoy the local cuisine. With its beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere, Kinosaki Onsen is the perfect place to get away from it all and reconnect with nature.
To visit Kinosaki Onse, take JR San’in Main Line to Kinosakionsen Station.
Tottori Sand Dunes
The Tottori Sand Dunes are one of the most unique landscapes in Japan. Located in Tottori Prefecture, the dunes span 16 kilometers and are the largest in Japan. Visitors can explore the sand dunes by foot, sand-boarding, or try para-gliding. With its unique atmosphere and stunning views of the Sea of Japan, the Tottori Sand Dunes are a must-see for any traveler to the Kansai Region.
Karoichi Fish Market
Karoichi Fish Market where visitors can witness the hustle and bustle of the vibrant fish market. There are plenty of fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables, and other local specialties to be found. Visitors can also sample some of the delicious dishes prepared by the local restaurants.
Lake Biwa
Located in Shiga Prefecture, the lake is the largest in Japan and is known for its beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can take boat tours, explore the surrounding area, or take part in the annual Lake Biwa Firework Festival, which is one of the biggest fireworks displays in the country.
To visit Lake Biwa, take the Biwako Line and get off at Otsu Station.
Conclusion
The JR Pass for the Kansai region is an excellent option for travelers looking to explore the Kansai region at their own pace. With unlimited travel on JR trains and high-speed travels on the Sanyo Shinkansen and Hello Kitty Shinkansen, you can experience the best of Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Himeji, Nara and more. So, consider purchasing a JR Pass for your next trip to the Kansai region and discover the hidden gems that this beautiful region has to offer.
FAQ
The Kansai Wide Area Pass allows for unlimited use of JR trains within the Kansai region, which includes popular cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama.
A 5-day Kansai Wide Area Pass costs JPY 10,000 if you purchase it online in advance.
The JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass is valid for 5 CONSECUTIVE days.
Yes, you can purchase the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass overseas. You’ll need to make sure you have a valid exchange order. Once you arrive in Japan, you can exchange the order for the actual pass at any JR West Rail Pass exchange office.
Some of the must-see destinations include: Kyoto: Kayabuki No Sato, Amanohashidate, Hyogo: Himeji Castle, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kinosaki Onsen, Tottori: Tottori Sand Dunes, Karoichi Fish Market, Shiga: Lake Biwa.
Yes. The pass also covers the Wakayama Electric Railway between Wakayama and Kishi.
The JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass can be purchased by anyone, regardless of nationality, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. These include: having a valid passport and being a temporary visitor to Japan with “Temporary Visitor” entry status. It cannot be used by Japanese citizens or those who have a different type of visa.
