Effective October 1, 2023, prices for the very popular Japan Rail Pass will be increasing by an average of around 70%. The announcement came without much of an explanation other than to say that a pass purchased (at the current prices) by September 30, 2023 could be activated for travel until December 29, 2023. So, if you are planning to buy a Pass for use in 2023, do so prior to October 1st. One benefit of the higher priced Passes is that they will be accepted for travel on Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen bullet trains. Previously, these (highest speed) trains were not available to JR Pass riders. While the jump in JR Pass pricing is a big leap, depending on your travel plans, it can still be a good value as compared to purchasing individual tickets. Regional passes are another option if they fit your travel plans. More information is available from JR Pass sellers.
Price of Japan Rail Pass jumps!
