The Japan Railways Guide

1. Get Ideas for your ultimate trip - 12 itineraries

Interested in using a Japan Rail Pass to explore the whole country, but not sure what your perfect plan should be? We've designed easy to read itineraries, mapped out so that you can see our suggestions and exactly how far you'll go.

2. Add to your itinerary

Our more detailed rail itineraries cover every major journey across Japan, from the northern tip of Hokkaido to the waterfalls and volcanoes of southern Kyushu. Let our suggested rail trips guide you as you make your way across the country.

Learn more about how to plan an itinerary. 

3. Explore what's between big stops

Each of our train routes begin and end in big cities and towns, but as we map out the route you'll follow, we've also explained some smaller stations of note.

4. Find Lodgings and food near JR stations

If you've arrived at a train station with some extra time to kill, or late at night and aren't sure where you can grab a bite to eat that's also tasty, our guidebook includes restaurant recommendations and instructions for exactly how to get there. Looking for a place close to the station where you can stay the night? We've got lodging recommendations, too!

5. Smart tips for traveling by Japanese rail

General guidebooks don't normally cover the finer points of train travel in Japan. Our experts have included tips about traveling on the Japan Railways with luggage, as well as traveling in style, supplementing our online travel tips section.

Get your free digital Japan by Train guide today when you order a Japan Rail Pass ! It is also possible to buy the paperback guide.