There are many ways to get around Japan besides using the Japan Rail network and JR Pass. It can be more convenient to use other private rail networks, local buses, taxi or ferries. These other alternatives are not covered by the JR Pass but can make your travel experience a lot easier depending on where you are going.

For local buses, pay attention to others when boarding as some board at the back while others at the front. Also, don’t forget to tap on with your Suica/Pasmo or take a ticket from the boarding machine when getting on if necessary. When you get off later, you will need to put the ticket in the fare machine by the driver. This will calculate your correct fare by zone/distance travelled. If you used your Suica/Pasmo, just tap at the fare machine to get off. The amount will automatically be deducted from your card.

A useful way to travel across country using the bullet train operated by the Japan Rail Network. Japan Rail is separated into various regional companies which jointly recognize the JR Pass for travellers.

The Japan Rail Pass (or JR Pass) can be bought online at recognized tour operators or at eh Japan Rail website.

The pass no longer resembles a paper pass and is now a magnetic card that is fed into the ticket machines at the station (don’t forget to pick up once you walk through the gate as you will need it to get out at the destination).

JR Passes can only be used for JR trains, subways, local buses and the ferry at Miyajima. It can not be used on other private rail networks or the Tokyo Metro.

In 2023, the JR Pass ticket prices increased in price where it is now requires more planning before purchasing. I recently wrote two blogs (part 1) and (part 2) on if it was worth using on the ‘Golden Corridor’.

Clean, quiet and easy to access from transit hubs, taxis are useful ways to get around in a pinch. Like most cities, they are more expensive than regular transit but can give you a different perspective of the city when riding in them.

Usually there is a taxi stand to cue up to take the next available taxi at the train station.

Check with the driver if they allow payment by credit card. I have seen people line up at JR Kyoto Station only to be turned away by a driver who did not allow credit card payments.

Google translate or some sort of translation app can help.

Uber is available in large cities. I don’t really use them as I find that everywhere that I need to go to is easily accessible by transit.

Don’t forget to check any surge pricing during prime time and to factor that in to the cost.