Gifu

Hi there,

The best way from Kyoto to Gifu is to take:

1. the Shinkansen from Kyoto station to Nagoya station
2. the Special Rapid Train from Nagoya Station to Gifu Station

The journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, keep in mind that Shirakawa-go is still farther away from Gifu station. You can find more information about visiting Shirakawa-go with the Japan Rail Pass in our blog post here.

Here are some of the great places for a day trip from Kyoto:

Himeji: Home to Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most impressive castles.
Uji: Famous for its green tea production and the beautiful Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arashiyama: Known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the iconic Bamboo Forest, the Togetsukyo Bridge, and the Tenryuji Temple.

I hope this helps!

Kind Regards,

Mariko

Hi Mariko,
I'm near Tamachi Station, and wood like to go to Nikko. I would like to go by bullet train, which hub is the best . Should I use Shinagawa or Tokyo station? where do I stop and then how do I get to NIkko. How long does it take and do I buy a pass for the UNESCO ahead of time? Thank you, Mitzi Ps. Thank you for the other post!

Hello,

I hope you are having a great time in Japan!

It will be Tokyo Station. From Tamachi station, you can take:

1. JR Yamonote Line from Tamachi Station to Tokyo Station
2. the bullet train Nasuno from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station
3. JR Nikko Line from Utsunomiya Station to Nikko Station

This trip takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. You can purchase admission tickets at the location to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For some inspiration on things to do in Nikko, you can check out our blog post here.

I hope this helps!

Kind Regards,

Mariko

Mariko,

Thank you for the information. I have and other question. I get to Japan on March 16-2025. How long can I wait to buy the Japan Rail pass safely? Thank you, Mitzi

Hi Mitzi,

The JR Pass voucher is valid for "exchange" in Japan for 3 months from the issue date. This means you can order your JR Pass now and exchange your voucher for the actual pass at an exchange office in Japan within those 3 months.

We recommend ordering your JR Pass at least one month in advance of your trip to ensure you have ample time to receive your voucher and plan your itinerary accordingly.

I hope this helps!

Kind Regards,

Mariko

Thank you, Mariko-san!

You are very welcome, Mitzi!

Hi Mariko,

I will be using the JR PASS , my baggage is 150cm, but is too heavy to lift over my head. Should I make a reservation for the luggage or is there another spot I can put big luggage if I can not make a reservation? Thank you, Mitzi :)

Hi Mitzi,

I recommend making a seat reservation with a baggage area/compartment, as this will provide more legroom and peace of mind when travelling long distances.

You can find more details about baggage here.

I hope this helps!

Kind Regards,

Mariko