Train to Kyoto

Hi Aarti,

Yes, the Japan Rail Pass can be used on all Shinkansen bullet trains except the Nozomi and Mizuho services.

In practice, Nozomi and Mizuho trips are only slightly faster than the standard bullet train service as they don't stop at as many stations (eg from Tokyo to Kyoto they are 15mins faster than the standard bullet train service). For example, here is a bullet train itinerary from Tokyo > Kyoto on Dec 29th that is valid for use with a Japan Rail Pass, and would normally cost ¥13,020.

Currently, 7 day passes are available for €269 (standard class) and €359 (green class).

Hope this helps!

Dear Mari,

Thanks for your quick reply (.)
JR pass is very cheaper since, it will approximately JPY 28,000 & travel cost will
both ways TOKYO-KYOTO-TOKYO will be around JPY 26,000 & of, course the same can be used for 7 days for other Journey in JR.

Want to ask one more question is that can we get confirmed ticket on Dec 29th
since, Year end is peak season in japan for travelling.

Regards
Arti

Hi Arti,

That sounds about right. Normally the 'break even' point where a JR Pass is really good value is if you do a return trip to Kyoto from Tokyo.

About the seat reservations, they are free, but you will need to be in Japan and have your Japan Rail Pass in order to make reservations for the Tokyo-Kyoto-Tokyo journey. I know at this time of year it is a bit impractical, but it is the only free solution as JR only accepts free Japan Rail Pass seat reservations in person. If you are worried, there is always non-reserved standing room on the trains, and you can book your seats in advance as soon as you activate your Japan Rail Pass in Japan.

Hope this helps!