[Official Ticket] JR PASS Kansai & Hiroshima Area Rail Pass (Electronic Ticket) Transport Passes

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Hiroshima for a swift and scenic bullet train experience.

• Explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate on Miyajima Island using the included JR Miyajima Ferry.

• Wander through the historic streets of Kyoto and Nara, easily accessible via the JR Nara and Sagano lines.

• Take a day trip to the breathtaking Tottori Sand Dunes or the coastal beauty of the San-in region using the Super Hakuto limited express.

Hidden Gems

• Use your pass to visit Onomichi, a charming retro port town famous for its temple walk and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, often skipped by rushed tourists.

• Hop off at Kurashiki to stroll through the beautifully preserved Bikan Historical Quarter with its weeping willows and traditional storehouses.

• Discover the serene coastal views from the window seat of the JR Kure Line, which offers some of the most picturesque maritime scenery in Japan.

What Makes it Special

• Covers an expansive and diverse region, bridging the cultural heartland of Kansai with the poignant history and natural beauty of Hiroshima and Miyajima.

• Includes access to the Sanyo Shinkansen and the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, adding a touch of unique Japanese pop culture to your high-speed transit.

• Delivered as a convenient electronic ticket, allowing you to bypass long exchange queues and head straight to the ticket gates upon arrival.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most spectacular scenery, with cherry blossoms in Kyoto and vibrant fall foliage in Miyajima, though trains can be crowded during Golden Week and Obon. Early mornings are the best time to board Shinkansen and popular local trains to secure unreserved seating and enjoy quieter, more relaxed journeys.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic view of the floating torii gate from the JR Miyajima Ferry, which is fully covered by your rail pass, especially during the golden hour just before sunset.

• Photograph the sleek nose of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen at Shin-Osaka or Hiroshima stations, but be mindful not to use flash or block the boarding pathways.

• Take window seat photos of the Seto Inland Sea along the Sanyo Main Line, keeping your lens close to the glass to avoid reflections from the train interior.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese train etiquette is highly respected, so ensure your phone is on silent mode, avoid taking phone calls in the carriage, and keep conversations to a quiet whisper. When boarding and alighting trains, especially the Shinkansen, line up orderly on the platform markings and allow passengers to exit before you step inside.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in late summer transforms the sky above the Seto Inland Sea, easily accessible via your pass-covered ferry and train.

• Arashiyama Hanatouro in Kyoto during December illuminates the bamboo groves and temples, reachable via the JR Sagano Line.

• Hiroshima Flower Festival in early May turns the Peace Boulevard into a vibrant sea of blooms, just a short tram or bus ride from JR Hiroshima Station.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding, and always stand behind the yellow tactile paving lines while waiting on the platform.

• Keep your luggage securely stored in the overhead racks or the designated oversized baggage areas at the back of the Shinkansen carriages to prevent tripping hazards.

• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close, especially when navigating busy transit hubs like Osaka and Hiroshima stations during rush hour.