#64 Japan Rail Pass Update
Why you should buy them now before the 40% price increase this October
This past spring, Japan Rail Pass, which has been popular among foreign travelers, was reported to have undergone a significant price hike, and the shock caused a huge outcry on social networking sites and other media. The JR Group issued a press release on July 26, revealing the timing and details of the price increase. According to the release, the price increase will take effect on October 1, and various changes have been incorporated along with the price increase. Today, I want to give you tips on when and how you can buy tickets at the current price before the price increase and how things are going to be after October.
Summary
JR Group will make a huge increase on Japan Rail Pass on the 1st of October 2023
Nozomi & Mizuho (faster bullet trains) can be used by purchasing additional tickets
JR Group is planning special coupons for those who purchase Japan Rail Pass
Reviewing the changes
The impact of the increase is huge and its rate is at least 40%. However, some have pointed out that the price of this pass was originally too low. For example, a single trip between Tokyo and Osaka on a reserved seat on the Shinkansen costs 14,450 yen, and a round trip costs 28,900 yen, not much different from the current 7-day standard fare of 29,650 yen. The current price is so cheap that even if it were to go up to 50,000 yen, it might still be worth considering.
When to buy at the existing price
The good news is, you can still buy them at the existing price! The important factors are the following: purchase, pick-up, and activation dates. The final date to activate your pass at the existing price is January 29th, 2024. However, remember that the pass usage typically begins immediately upon collection, or if you are purchasing it online, you must activate it on the day of purchase.
Impacts of this increase
How will this price increase affect visitors and travelers considering Japan as their destination?
Shift in Budget Allocation: Travelers might need to allocate more of their budget to transportation, leaving less room for other expenses like accommodation, dining, and activities. This could lead to adjustments in travel itineraries and spending patterns.
Impact on Trip Duration: Some travelers might choose to shorten their trips to Japan to fit their travel expenses within their budget. This could result in a shift from longer stays to shorter, more focused visits.
Destination Choices: Travelers might consider alternative destinations where transportation costs are relatively lower, affecting the overall demand for travel to Japan. They might opt for countries or regions where rail passes, or transportation options are more affordable.
Traveler Segmentation: Budget-conscious travelers relying heavily on the Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective travel might reconsider their plans. On the other hand, travelers who prioritize convenience and flexibility might be less deterred by the price increase.
Tour Packages and Group Travel: Tour operators and travel agencies might need to adjust their offerings to accommodate the price increase. Group travel packages could be restructured to provide better value or more inclusive experiences to counterbalance the higher transportation costs.
These are possible impacts, but if I take a slightly cynical view, the JR Group may not want to sell more of these passes than necessary.
Even if sales of the pass decline somewhat due to this price hike, it is likely that a certain number of foreign tourists will use the pass, and considering the burden on the ticket offices where the pass is picked up, it may be better if the number of users declines to some extent.
Other tips when using Japan Rail Pass
Be prepared for a long queue to pick up your Japan Rail Pass. Those who arrive late may face a long waiting time. I took my customers to the Shinjuku office the other day and I had to wait one hour before I started my tour.
Special booking is required for large luggage. JR Central requires oversized baggage for booking in advance. The carriage of the Shinkansen is not designed to accommodate large luggage and you will need to book a spot for your luggage if your luggage’s three sides add up to 160 cm or more.
Make sure not to lose the Japan Rail Pass since it cannot be reissued. Most importantly don’t lose the ticket, otherwise, you can’t get reissued. You just have to buy it at the regular price.
If you are thinking of visiting Japan during the autumn leaves season, I highly recommend arranging Japan Rail Pass at an overseas JR-designated sales office so that you have more flexibility in timing and you can get the most from the JR Pass.
If you’re interested in more details about the JR Pass, please visit my previous post.