Tokyo - Kyoto - Tokyo (September 2023)

Hi, Daniel-san.

I'm a bit confused as to whether or not I can use a JRPass on an upcoming trip to Japan.

We will be in Japan for 6 days (22/9 to 28/9), so the 7-day ticket seems to make sense During that time, we want to take the bullet train from Tokyo (24/9) to Kyoto and back to Tokyo (27/9). Based on my preliminary research, it looks like the fares are about the same if I buy single tickets to and from Tokyo OR if I buy a JRPass; naturally, the JRPass makes more sense.

My confusion arises because I read that although the JR Pass covers all bullet train lines. "The Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen are NOT included in the JR Pass" and when I look up the evening routes from Tokyo to Kyoto the Nozomi line seems to be the only option. Am I understanding this correctly? If so, should I just buy single tickets to and from Kyoto upon arrival in Tokyo or do I need to buy them a certain amount of days in advance of my travel to Kyoto?

Additionally, I worry that being just one month away, if I buy a JRPass and have it delivered to my house in the United States it may not arrive in time. It looks like I can have it delivered to my hotel in Tokyo, but I will only be in Tokyo 2 days before I leave for Kyoto, and I understand a 4 day minimum is required.

Any insight you provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.