JR PASS Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass Transport Passes

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Thunderbird limited express train to swiftly travel between Osaka and the coastal beauty of Kanazawa.

• Wander through the iconic vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto before heading north to the Higashi Chaya geisha district.

• Take a scenic coastal train ride along the Sea of Japan to witness dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches.

• Explore the beautifully preserved Edo-period streets of Takayama using your pass to access the wider Hokuriku network.

Hidden Gems

• Use your pass to visit Tsuruga in Fukui Prefecture, a quiet port city famous for its incredible seafood bowls and retro railway museum.

• Hop off at Kinosaki Onsen to experience a traditional hot spring town where locals stroll the streets in yukata between seven public bathhouses.

• Discover the stunning Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa early in the morning before the tour groups arrive to enjoy the meticulously landscaped ponds in total peace.

What Makes it Special

• Covers an expansive and diverse route linking the major urban hubs of Kansai with the rich cultural and natural treasures of the Hokuriku region.

• Includes access to premium limited express trains like the Thunderbird, which usually require expensive supplementary fees on standard tickets.

• Offers incredible flexibility with a 7-day consecutive usage window that can be activated anytime within 90 days of your initial booking.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and stunning scenery, with cherry blossoms in April and vibrant foliage in November drawing the largest crowds. Winter transforms the Hokuriku region into a snowy wonderland perfect for onsen lovers, though you should expect heavier train traffic and potential weather delays. Early mornings are always the best time to board popular limited express trains to secure window seats and avoid the commuter rush.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the sleek design of the Thunderbird limited express train against the backdrop of the modern Osaka Station architecture during the golden hour.

• When travelling through the rural Hokuriku coastline, sit on the ocean-facing side of the train to photograph the dramatic Sea of Japan cliffs and sunset views.

• Always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash or tripods inside the train carriages or on crowded station platforms.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese train etiquette is highly respected, so ensure your phone is on silent mode and avoid taking loud phone calls or chatting loudly while on board. Eating and drinking are generally acceptable on long-distance limited express trains, but it is considered rude to consume strong-smelling foods or eat on short-distance local commuter trains. Always queue neatly behind the marked lines on the platform and allow passengers to disembark before you board.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the breathtaking Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri in June, which features spectacular samurai parades and traditional tea ceremonies.

• Travel during the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto throughout July to witness one of Japan's most famous and elaborate float festivals.

• Ride the trains in winter to catch the stunning Shirakawa-go illumination events, where traditional thatched-roof farmhouses are lit up against the snow.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding, especially at older rural stations in the Hokuriku region where platform heights may vary.

• Keep your valuables and travel documents secure in a cross-body bag or money belt, particularly when sleeping on longer train journeys.

• During the winter months, be cautious of slippery, snow-covered or icy station platforms and walkways in the northern Hokuriku areas.