HyperDia has been an invaluable route planner tool for those traveling on trains and Shinkansen within Japan with a JR Pass since the early 2000’s. However, recent changes in HyperDia’s timetable services mean that you may like to consider an alternative option.
Trains & Transportation
This section of our blog is dedicated to the public transportation in Japan, available for free to all Japan Rail Pass holders.
If you want to learn more about how to locate and take your trains from Tokyo or Kyoto stations; how to arrive in central Tokyo from Narita Airport, by taking the Narita Express (N’EX); how to ride the JR buses in the major cities or take the Miyajima ferry from Hiroshima, this section is for you.
You will also enjoy a number of comprehensive routes on how to arrive from one city to another; where to look for accurate online timetables; where and how to transfer between stations and more.
Osaka’s Umeda Station Travel Guide
Umeda is the name of the area surrounding both Umeda Station and Osaka Station. Umeda is considered the transportation hub for sightseeing in the Kansai Region, which includes popular destinations such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Arriving in Japan: Haneda Airport to Tokyo Travel Guide
Haneda Airport – at one time known as Tokyo International Airport – is an important hub for international travelers. If you’re flying into Japan or flying into Tokyo from another part of Japan, chances are Haneda may be on your itinerary.
How far is it from the airport to your preferred destination? How much does a taxi cost? How do you navigate the commuter train system? If you’re wondering how to get from Haneda airport to Tokyo Station or other nearby areas, check out this handy Haneda Airport travel guide.
Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen: How to get to Nagasaki by bullet train
The Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen is a new train line that serves as an extension of the Kyushu Shinkansen line.
A section of the line between Takeo-Onsen and Nagasaki opened on September 23, 2022.
This line is served by the Kamome Shinkansen train. You can use your JR Pass on this service.
Shinanomachi Station (Tokyo): Access and Attractions
Shinanomachi Station in Tokyo’s Shinjuku special ward first opened its doors in 1894. In 2015, the station was serving over 25,000 passengers daily. While currently closed, the station will help ferry visitors to the Tokyo Olympic Stadium during the 2021 Olympic games.
36+3 Express 787 luxury train in Kyushu
The 36+3 luxury train is a new daytime service inaugurated in October 2020. The jet-black-and-gold-trim trains are refurbished Express 787 series models that JR Kyushu has remodeled to the highest standard of luxurious comfort. They operate on 5 routes around Japan’s southernmost main island, Kyushu.
The meaning of 36+3 is derived from the fact that Kyushu is the 36th largest island in the world, combined with the 3 elements of JR Kyushu, locals, and customers coming together on the new service. Additionally, the number 39 is written as “san-kyu” in Japanese, which is also similar to how “thanks” is pronounced in the language.