The JR Pass is not just a ticket to seamless travel across Japan’s extensive rail network. It’s also a passport to a range of benefits and deals at tourist attractions across Japan, including discounts for children.

From historical sites in Hokkaido to cultural landmarks in Eastern Japan, your JR Pass can unlock numerous special discounts and perks.

Aside from perks at tourist facilities, you can also use your JR Pass to get deals on other aspects of travel, such as car rental and hotel discounts at regions across the country.

In this guide, we’ll explore the various discounts and benefits available at tourist facilities across different regions of Japan that are included with the JR Pass.

Hokkaido Region

Eastern Japan Region

Central Japan

West Japan

Shikoku Region

Kyushu Region

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The Japanese cherry blossom, or sakura, has long been adored by people across the globe. It is regarded as a symbol of renewal, vitality, and beauty. During the spring season of each year, thousands travel to Japan to view the wondrous spectacle of these white or pink flowers blooming en masse.

Update (April 5, 2024):  Check below for the details, including our map with the best viewing spots.

Cherry blossom in Japan

Japanese families also eagerly await this time. Many attend cherry blossom festivals or simply enjoy hanami, the tradition of viewing and enjoying the beauty of the cherry blossom. Many people indulge in picnics beneath the blooming cherry trees.

A Japanese hanami is an experience of a lifetime, especially if you must travel from afar!

If you are planning a trip to see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms in 2024, there are two things to consider – where and when to visit. There are many prime locations with a variety of features – some have the oldest trees, others the most trees, and some are close to historic areas or other sites of interest. You can quickly and easily travel between many locations by train using your Japan Rail Pass.

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Japan cherry blossom season

The cherry blossom usually start from the south, at the end of March, in Kyushu, where the temperature begins to rise earlier, and the cherry blossoms bloom northward until early May in Hokkaido.

Keep in mind: most flowers usually take a week to reach full bloom once flowering has begun and that full bloom also lasts around a week.

The sakura (cherry blossom in japanese) average blooming time can vary widely based on the geographical location within the country. Areas with milder winter climates produce earlier bloom times. Blooms usually open first in the southern region, and blooming progresses northward. Wind, rain, and temperature can cause the blossoms to appear either earlier or later than average and can lengthen or shorten the blooming season.

Take a look at the current dates, but don’t forget to check back later to get the latest and most recent forecasts.

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Japan major cities 2024 forecast

Find below the 2024 forecast for cherry blossom in Japan’s major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Yokohama.

As you can see, the estimated opening of the cherry blossom season and approximate best viewing time for 2024 all fall within a similar period of time across the major cities in Japan, although cities in the south experience sakura slightly earlier than those in the north.

2024 forecast by regions

Below you’ll find a map of the 2024 cherry blossom forecast for Japan by region, as well as a complete list of the estimated opening dates and best viewing times for the major cities within each region.

As it is linked to the arrival of spring in the northern hemisphere and the resulting increase in temperatures, the cherry blossom season in Japan usually starts at the bottom of the archipelago and moves from south to north across the regions. As you can see from the map above, this year will be no different.

Check out the region-by-region forecasts in the tables below, starting with Kyushu, to the south, and ending in Hokkaido, the northernmost region of Japan.

Kyushu region

Chugoku & Shikoku regions

Kansai region

Chubu region

Kanto region

Tohoku & Hokkaido regions

Once you’ve decided on which of the best cherry blossom spots in Japan (or just in Tokyo or in Kyoto) you will visit for Hanami, you will want to time your stay so that you will get the most from your cherry blossom experience. Why? Because not every location experiences full bloom at the same time.

Don’t forget to check out our sakura travel tips: you are sure to have a trip to remember with your Japan Rail Pass.

The post 2024 cherry blossom forecast for Japan appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

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.

Taking the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda

The Tokyo Monorail was built for the 1964 Olympics. The Monorail stops at each of the airport’s three terminals, and you can ride it to the JR Yamanote Line for as little as 490 yen – less than $5.00 U.S.

The Tokyo Monorail is covered by:

• Japan Rail Pass
• Hokuriku Arch Pass
• JR East -South Hokkaido Rail Pass

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Using the JR Pass from Haneda Airport

Many transportation options employ JR trains, and your Japan Rail pass can help you travel easily and inexpensively. You can activate your pass at the airport.

Consider, however, when you will next be using your pass. If you plan on traveling by train the same or next day, activate your pass. However, if you will not be employing the trains until later in your trip, it could be advisable to wait and activate your pass at a later date. In this case, you can purchase a single-ride ticket for the Monorail to access your accommodations.

The Keikyu Line

The Keikyu Line departs in two directions from Haneda. Most trains travel northeast to Shinagawa, a 13-minute trip. Shinagawa is located on the JR Yamanote Line, providing easy access to Tokyo, Shinjuku, and Shibuya Stations. The trip costs 410 yen, or just under $4.00 U.S.

A few Keikyu Line trains head to Yokohama in the southwest. This trip takes 20 to 25 minutes and costs 450 yen, or just over $4.00 U.S.

Taking a Limousine Bus from Haneda Airport

The limousine bus is a coach bus that travels to major hotels and train stations. One advantage of the limousine bus is the ample space for luggage storage.

Adult fares for a limousine bus to Tokyo Station generally range from 720 to 1,200 yen – about $6.00 to $11.00 U.S. – and children travel with half-price fares.

Travel by Taxi

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. These, however, are a more expensive mode of transportation.

Shared shuttles are somewhat cheaper at a price of around 5,000 yen, or just over $45.00 U.S.

Late Night Transportation

Red-eye flights may leave you looking for transportation late night. Taxis remain available after midnight, as do a few buses. Expect more expensive fares for inconvenient hours; bus fares may be double their daytime price.

Haneda to Tokyo Station

You have several options available when traveling from Haneda Airport to Tokyo Station. If you wish to use your JR Pass, you can take the Tokyo Monorail from the airport to Hamamatsucho Station. From there, take the JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Lines to Tokyo Station.

Alternatively, you can take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda to Shinagawa Station. From there you can take the JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Lines to Tokyo Station.

Haneda to Shinjuku

Getting to Shinjuku Station is similar to getting to Tokyo Station. One option is taking the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station. From there, you can take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station.

Another option is taking the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda to Shinagawa Station. From there, take the Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station.

Haneda to Shibuya

You can also use the Tokyo Monorail to travel to Shibuya. Take the Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, then take the Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station.

Alternatively, you can take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda to Shinagawa Station. From there, you can use the Yamanote Line to reach Shibuya.

Haneda to Tokyo Disneyland

Headed to the Disneyland Resort? In one hour, you can reach your destination using the JR Pass. First, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station. From there, take the Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station and transfer to the JR Keiyo or JR Musashino Line to Maihama Station.

If you’re in a hurry, you can take the Monorail to Tennozu Isle Station, and transfer to the Rinkai Line. At the Shin-Kiba Station, transfer to the Jr Keiyo or Musashino Lines to Maihama Station. This method will save you 15 minutes of time, but it is not fully covered by the JR Pass.

Maihama Station is located adjacent to the resort welcome center.

The post Arriving in Japan: Haneda Airport to Tokyo Travel Guide appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

The  Kanto region covers an area in the east of central Honshu, Japan’s largest island, and contains a large number of the country’s major cities, as well as approximately one-third of the total Japanese population.

The region encompasses the Greater Tokyo Area, as well as the prefecture of Kanagawa and its capital, Yokohama, and is considered the cultural, economic, and political center of all of Japan. It’ also full of spectacular natural scenery, such as that in the lush Nikko National Park.

Visitors to Kanto can get around the region in an easy and cost-effective way using either the JR Pass or one of the JR East regional passes. Below you will find a full guide to navigating the region and the recommended destinations to include on a trip.

Kanto prefectures

Although the Yamanashi, Nagano, and Shizuoka prefectures are included in some definitions of the region, Kanto is commonly accepted to consist of the following 7 prefectures:

• Tokyo – This prefecture encompasses Japan’s largest city and capital, as well as the remote Ogasawara islands and the island of Izu Oshima.
• Kanagawa – Containing Yokohama, the second-largest city in Japan, this prefecture is also home to the Hakone National Park and the historic town of Kamakura.
• Chiba – Located on the Pacific coast of Japan east of Tokyo, Chiba prefecture largely covers the Bōsō Peninsula and is home to Narita Airport and Tokyo Disneyland.
• Saitama – This landlocked prefecture contains a number of suburbs of Tokyo, as well as the rural city of Chichibu and the castle town of Kawagoe.
• Tochigi – The mountainous northern region of this prefecture is a popular tourist destination because of its numerous onsens and ski resorts, and the ancient capital, Nikkō, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Gunma – A prefecture renowned for its natural beauty and popular hot spring baths, including Kusatsu Onsen and Manza Onsen.
• Ibaraki –This coastal prefecture encompasses the city of Mito as well as Kairaku-en, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens.

Top destinations in Kanto

Over 45 percent of the Kanto region stretches across Japan’s largest plain, while the rest of the area is covered by mountainous territory and rolling hills that form natural land barriers. The region is the most highly developed area of Japan and boasts the biggest cities in the country.

Some of the most popular destinations in Kanto include:

Tokyo

Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and the most populous metropolitan area in the world. It is located on the southeastern side of the main island Honshu, in the Kantō region, and includes the Izu Islands and Ogasawara Islands.

This captivating city has something for everyone, from the majestic temples of traditional Japan to the bright neon lights of Shibuya.

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Yokohama

Japan’s second-largest city after Tokyo, Yokohama is located half an hour south of Tokyo. One of the first Japanese ports to open to foreign trade, in 1859, Yokohama has a reputation as a truly multicultural city and draws a large number of both Japanese and international visitors.

Its range of diverse attractions includes one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, a range of gastronomic experiences such as a Ramen Museum and brewery tours, and a large zoo and sea-themed amusement park.

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Nikko

Nikko is a historic and scenic retreat in the heart of Japan, nestled in the mountains north of Tokyo. Located at the entrance to Nikko National Park, the town offers beautiful mountain vistas, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Boasting a range of hiking opportunities, the Nikko area has also been sacred to the religions of Buddhism and Shinto for many centuries. The town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and is perhaps most famous for Toshogu, one of the most intricately decorated shrines in Japan.

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Kamakura

Often called “the Kyoto of Eastern Japan”, this charming coastal town is located about an hour south of Tokyo and is perfect for a relaxing day trip from the capital. Its beaches, historical structures, and monuments make Kamakura a go-to destination year-round.

The area is especially good for viewing cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The numerous historic temples, such as Kotoku-in and its famous giant Buddha statue, also make it an ideal location to learn about Japanese religious culture.

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Best things to do in Kanto

The diverse geography and history of the Kanto region means that there is a vast array of attractions to visit, from ancient temples and shrines designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites to popular onsen hot springs, to exciting theme parks.

Some of the best attractions in Kanto include:

Hakone

Hakone is renowned for the stunning views it offers of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. Situated less than 100 km west of Tokyo, the scenic location is popular for day trips and weekend breaks.

There are a number of popular attractions in Hakone. Many people go there specifically for the onsen (hot springs) and the town has some fascinating points of cultural interest too, including the Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Open Air Museum.

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Tokyo Imperial Palace

Also known as Kōkyo, this palace in Tokyo is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. The Imperial Place is defined by distinctive whitewashed buildings with sloping roofs in a historic Japanese style, and is surrounded by a vast, formidable moat.

Visitors to Tokyo are encouraged to take a guided tour of the extensive, elegant palace grounds. These include the Imperial Palace East Gardens, which houses the large collection of the Museum of the Imperial Collection, and Kitanomaru Park, home to the National Museum of Modern Art.

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Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park, called Yoyogi-Koen in Japanese, has been described as “one of the liveliest parks in the city.” It is also one of the largest green spaces in Tokyo. It is located conveniently between two other bucket list areas, Shibuya and Harajuku.

Festivals and other events are held there almost every weekend. Whether you’re traveling solo, in a group, as a couple, or with children, Yoyogi Park offers something for everyone.

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Ghibli Museum

Located in Tokyo’s Mikata district, the Studio Ghibli Museum was established by Hayao Miyazaki, a master of Japanese anime. Miyazaki is the director behind award-winning, acclaimed childhood films such as My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Spirited Away (2001), and Howl’s Moving Castle (2004),

The museum is an interactive experience dedicated to a studio often called the ‘Disney of Japan’ and is suitable for the entire family. It identifies itself as “a portal to a storybook world” and boasts a number of exhibits including enormous statues of Ghibli characters and exclusive short films.
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Sensoji Temple

Sensoji temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon and located in Tokyo’s Asakusa district, is the city’s oldest religious building and one of its most colorful and popular.

With roughly 20 million annual visitors, it’s also the most visited-temple in Japan and the most-frequented spiritual site in the world.

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Tokyo Disneyland

In 1983, Tokyo Disney became the first Disney theme park to open outside of the United States. It is located alongside the Tokyo Disney Resort, just a 5-minute walk from Maihama Station.

The park stretches out across 7 distinct zones and includes a range of classic Disney rides such as Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, Star Tours, and the Haunted Mansion. An ideal destination for a family day out while in Japan’s capital.

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Ashikaga Flower Park

The Ashikaga Flower Park first opened in 1968 and now spans 94,000 square meters (23 acres) of land approximately 74 kilometers north of Tokyo. The park is famous across Japan for housing a 150-year-old wisteria tree which has been designated as a national monument by the Tochigi Prefecture.

In addition to this amazing natural wonder, you can experience an 80-meter tunnel of white wisteria or yellow Kibana, thousands of azaleas, hundreds of other flowers, and winter lights. The flowers themselves are also illuminated at night, providing a truly otherworldly experience.

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Main train lines and transportation

A number of train and Shinkansen lines operate within the Kanto region. Some of the lines you can expect to use when visiting the area include:

• Tokaido Shinkansen
• Joetsu Shinkansen
• Hokuriku Shinkansen
• Tohoku Shinkansen
• Narita Express
• Tokyo Monorail
• Yamanote line
• Keihin-Tohoku line
• Saikyo line
• Joban line
• Keiyo line
• Chuo Sobu line

Other regions of Japan

Japan is traditionally divided into 8 regions, which mostly contain several of the country’s 47 prefectures. However, the northern island prefecture of Hokkaido forms its own region, and the Okinawa Prefecture is sometimes regarded as a 9th prefecture, although it is often included within Kyushu.

Other than Kanto, the regions in Japan are as follows:

• Chubu
• Hokkaido
• Shikoku
• Kyushu
• Kansai
• Tohoku
• Chugoku

The post Kanto Region: Japan travel guide appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

Aomori prefecture, located in the Tōhoku region of Japan, boasts a number of spectacular natural landscapes that shouldn’t be missed on a trip to the country.  It’s also home to the northernmost prefectural capital city on the main Japanese island of Honshu, Aomori city.

This port city dates back to Japan’s early Edo period and continued to be the main departure point from Honshu to Hokkaido for centuries until the opening of the Seikan Undersea Railway Tunnel in 1988. However, although it has lost its status as a primary transport hub, there is still much in Aomori to entice JR Pass holders to make it a main destination on their travel itinerary.

How to get to Aomori from Tokyo

Visitors who wish to visit Aomori from Tokyo have several transportation options to choose from, including taking a Shinkansen bullet train using their Japan Rail Pass, traveling by bus, or flying to the prefecture from Japan’s capital.

Holders of a JR Pass can reserve a seat on a Hayabusa train on the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori station, located just a 6-7 minute train ride from Aomori station in the prefectural capital.

They can change to a limited express or local train bound for Aomori station. There is approximately one connection per hour. The entire trip from Tokyo to Aomori by train takes roughly 4 hours and the fare is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Those who would prefer to travel to Aomori by bus can take one of the numerous highway buses which operate day and night from both Tokyo station and Shinjuku station. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours. 

Additionally, several flights operate daily from Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Aomori Airport, and the one-way trip only takes approximately 80 minutes. Once at Aomori Airport, you can take a JR bus to reach Aomori city’s central train station in just 35 minutes. The bus fare is fully covered by the JR pass.

Aomori city attractions

Many of the most enticing attractions in this northern prefecture are located in the capital city of Aomori itself, and none is more famous than the unique Nebuta Matsuri festival which takes place annually from 2-7 August.

This popular summer festival in Japan stands out for the large number of huge lantern floats employed in the colorful central parade which takes place daily. The enormous floats take almost a full year to construct, and commonly portray a number of famous characters from both Japanese history and pop culture.

However, even if you don’t manage to visit Aomori during August, you can still experience the spirit of this Matsuri at the Nebuta Warasse museum in the city center. This art space hosts a number of lanterns and floats used in previous celebrations, and dancers and musicians involved in the festival often perform live during weekends and holidays.

Other attractions in Aomori city well-worth a visit include the two central fish markets, Furukawa and Augu, where visitors can sample the fresh seafood which has become a renowned export of the prefecture. Additionally, those interested in Aomoris’ long history should visit the Jomon Archaeological site to experience a number of carefully reimagined prehistoric structures.

Getting to the city’s main attractions is easy, as many are located within walking distance of Aomori station. However, it may be necessary to take a JR bus to get to the Jomon site, as it is roughly a 20-minute bus ride outside of the city center.

Things to do in Aomori prefecture

The greater Aomori prefecture offers a huge range of dramatic natural scenery and sites of historic and cultural importance for visitors to explore. Some of the most popular attractions in Aomori prefecture include:

• Hirosaki – The former regional capital of Aomori, Hirosaki is a culturally rich city centered around its impressive historic castle. The extensive castle grounds are full of thousands of cherry trees, making it one of the best cherry blossom viewing locations in Japan during sakura festivals in the spring.

  

• Lake Towada – Straddling the border between Aomori and Akita prefectures, Towada is the largest caldera lake on the island of Honshu. It’s well-worth taking a boat trip on the lake in the autumn to experience the spectacular fall foliage along the shoreline.

  

• Shimokita Hanto – Located on the northernmost tip of Honshu, this peninsula is best known for the imposing “Fear Mountain”. The steaming slopes of this sacred volcanic summit are said to resemble the concept of Buddhist hell and are also home to the ornate Bodaiji Temple.

  

Travelers planning to visit Aomi prefecture during May should also consider a trip to Yokohama to experience the Rape Blossom Festival that takes place in the town every year. A helicopter sightseeing flight over the vast number of vibrantly blooming fields is highly recommended.

The post Aomori city and prefecture travel guide appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

The Shonan-Shinjuku line, inaugurated in December 2001, is a Japanese passenger train service operated by JR East that connects multiple destinations in the Kanto region of Honshu, Japan’s largest island, with the capital city of Tokyo.

Services on the Shonan-Shinjuku line run along sections shared by the Ryōmō Line, Takasaki Line, Utsunomiya Line, Yamanote Line, Yokosuka Line, and the Tōkaidō Main Line, and most can be freely used with the JR Pass. Although the line has no dedicated track of its own, it is treated as a separate service on railway maps and station information boards.

Shonan-Shinjuku stations list

The following are stations served by the Shonan-Shinjuku line:

• Omiya
• Akabane
• Urawa
• Ikebukuro
• Shinjuku
• Shibuya
• Ebisu
• Osaki
• Nishi-Oi
• Musashi-Kosugi
• Shin-Kawasaki
• Yokohama
• Hodogaya
• Higashi-Totsuka
• Totsuka
• Ōfuna

However, It should be noted that the Ebisu, Nishi-Oi, Shin-Kawasaki, Hodogaya, and Higashi-Totsuka stations are not served by rapid train services.

Passengers arriving at Omiya are able to transfer onwards to the Takasaki or Utsunomiya lines, while those arriving at Ofuna can transfer to the Tokaido Main Line or the Yokosuka Line.

Shonan-Shinjuku route and map

Although best known for providing a direct connection between Shinjuku and Yokohama, the entire Shonan-Shinjuku Line covers a distance of over 150 km.

The full route stretches from the north of the greater Tokyo area to the Shonan coastal region beyond Yokohama and allows easy access to the popular resort areas of Kamakura, Fujisawa, Odawara, and Hakone.

Train services

There are 3 different kinds of services on the Shonan-Shinjuku Line schedule:

• The ordinary local trains which stop at every station
• The express or rapid service
• The super-express, or special rapid trains, which usually only run from mid-morning to late afternoon.

During the busy commuter rush hours, up to 3 or 4 trains run on the line per hour, usually local or rapid services. in general, approximately every second train on the line operates as a rapid service.

It should be noted that although the Shonan-Shinjuku Line runs parallel to the Yamanote Line between Ikebukuro and Osaki, it only stops at the Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ebisu Stations.

Furthermore, rapid trains that run between Osaki and Totsuka only stop at Musashi-Kosugi and Yokohama, while special rapid trains also do not stop at Ebisu Station.

Tokyo to Yokohama

It takes approximately 35 minutes to travel to Yokohama from Tokyo on the Shonan-Shinjuku Line. Yokohama Station is also served by the JR Narita Express train, the Tokyu Toyoko and Keikyu Main Lines, and the Minatomirai and Yokohama Blue metro lines.

Yokohama is located in Kanagawa prefecture and is Japan’s second-largest city in terms of population, but offers visitors a much less hectic experience than the busy streets of Tokyo. Popular attractions include the Enoshima Shrine, Yamashita Park, and the Yokohama Chinatown.

Travelers planning to take a Shinkansen bullet train to the city will arrive at Shin-Yokohama, which is roughly 4 km north of Yokohama Station.

Tokyo to Kamakura

It takes roughly an hour to travel to Kamakura from Tokyo on a Shonan-Shinjuku train. Kamakura Station is also served by the Yokosuka Line and the Enoshima Electric Railway.

Kamakura’s coastal location makes it an ideal location for a seaside getaway in Japan, and it also offers visitors a number of hiking trails and a wealth of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to explore.

The most popular attraction in Kamakura is unquestionably the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple, a giant bronze statue that dates back centuries.

Tokyo to Odawara

It takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to travel from Tokyo to Odawara on Shonan Shinjuku services. Odawara Station is also served by the Tokaido Main Line, the Tokaido Shinkansen, the Daiyuzan Line, the Hakone Tozan Line, and the Odakyu Electric Railway.

Located in Odawara City in Kanagawa Prefecture, Odawara Station is just a few minutes’ walk from the castle of the same name and just over 1km from the seaside. Most arrivals at the station use it as a transfer point to reach the nearby resort area of Hakone.

Hakone, situated within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Geopark, is a popular tourist destination in Japan for both Japanese and international visitors because of its numerous onsen hot spring resorts and relative proximity to the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Visitors to the area can relax in one of the onsens while enjoying prime views of Mount Fuji in the distance, visit the iconic Hakone Shrine and its distinctive red “torii” gate, explore the sulfur springs of the Owakudani Valley, or take a boat tour on nearby Lake Ashi.

Fabs of Japanese anime and manga may also be interested in visiting Hakone to experience the numerous attractions related to the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise, which is set in the city.

The post The Shonan-Shinjuku line: From Tokyo to Yokohama and Kamakura appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

In Japan, typhoons are regular and natural occurrences. These events involve little risk beyond rain and wind causing you to alter your outdoor tourism plans. However, it is useful to know what you should do if you are vacationing in Japan during a typhoon alert.

What is a Typhoon?

Typhoons, called taifu in Japanese, are large low-pressure systems that can develop over the Pacific Ocean. Water vapor rises from the warm surface of the ocean, then condenses to form clouds. The clouds rise into towering columns. As the warm, moist air rises, it cools and begins to sink. The wind begins to circle in the center like water going down a drain. This gives the storm its characteristic spin.

Typhoons may display torrential rainfall and winds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). Western travelers may be familiar with similar storms that form over the Atlantic Ocean, which are known as hurricanes.

Is it a Typhoon, Hurricane, or Cyclone?

Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all similar storms that go by different names:

• Typhoons form in the equatorial waters of the Pacific and move toward Asia.
• Cyclones form to the east of Africa or the northwest of Australia.
• Hurricanes develop in the Caribbean region of the Atlantic Ocean or in the Pacific to the west of Central America.

Interestingly, typhoons are not given names as are their hurricane counterparts. Instead, they are given numbers: “typhoon number 1,” “typhoon number 2,” and so on.

Typhoon season in Japan

Japan’s typhoon season ranges from May to October each year, peaking in August and September. There is no need to avoid travel during these months, however.

Why not? Each year, about 30 typhoons or tropical storms form over the Pacific ocean. Approximately seven to eight of these may affect the island of Okinawa, and only three reach Japan’s main islands. Your travel plans are unlikely to be affected.

Japan: Built to weather the storm

Japan is susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and, of course, typhoons. In the past, landslides and flash floods resulting from typhoons damaged structures and claimed lives. Because of this, building codes and other methods have been employed to help the nation withstand whatever mother nature throws at it.

Since 1981, all of Japan’s buildings have complied with rules regarding design and construction. They are built to withstand tremors, winds, typhoons, and heavy snow. Roads and buildings are constructed in such a way that excess water can flow away without damage to the structure. Coastal defenses are in place to deflect potential storm surge.

Local governments prepare instruction manuals and practice regular safety drills in order to prepare for emergencies. English translations of these manuals are available online. Siren systems are also in place to warn of impending occurrences.

September 1 was named National Disaster Prevention Day in remembrance of an earthquake that devasted Tokyo in 1923. Disaster preparedness is taught from a young age; most people in Japan are aware of the necessary precautions and happy to comply. You can also take part in disaster prevention simulations at the Ikebukuro Life Safety Learning Center and the Yokohama Disaster Risk Reduction Learning Center.

What to do if a typhoon strikes

Typhoons move slowly, at around 20 Km/h (12 mph), and their paths can be accurately predicted. If you are prepared, typhoons will have little impact on your Japan vacation.

Travel during typhoon season often includes hot and rainy weather. Pack an umbrella, poncho, and appropriate attire. Make a list of nearby museums or other indoor activities you can pursue if rain interrupts your outdoor plans. In cities such as Tokyo, most businesses remain open and activities continue as usual. You can monitor closures on social media.

If you are in Japan when a typhoon strikes, watch local news media for reports, including travel advisories. Flights, trains, and expressways may be closed during a typhoon, so you should plan your accommodations and activities accordingly. Before booking your late summer travel, check with your airline’s cancellation policy.

Check the Japan Meteorologial Agency website for warnings and advisories.

Make safety your top priority. Don’t try to travel into areas affected by flooding, and don’t enter the ocean. If a typhoon is predicted to make landfall in your area, ask about the location of shelters. When the weather gets bad, stay indoors and close all windows. Use common sense. If you are unsure as to whether you should go out, ask your hosts for their opinion.

Typhoons are more common in the southern islands, and almost nonexistent in the northern island of Hokkaido. If you are concerned about traveling during the peak months, choose northern destinations.

If living in Japan, you may wish to assemble a “typhoon kit.” Your emergency kit should contain bottled water, nonperishable food items, a first aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries, a change of clothes, and a poncho. These items will help you to be prepared in the event of an evacuation or a few days at home with no electricity.

Useful links and resources

Meteorological information:

• Weather warnings and advisories
• Typhoon information

Airport traffic information:

• Narita Airport traffic information
• Haneda Airport traffic information
• Kansai International Airport traffic information

Train status updates:

• JR EAST
• JR WEST
• JR CENTRAL
• JR KYUSHU
• JR HOKKAIDO
• JR SHIKOKU
• TOKYO METRO
• OSAKA METRO

The post Typhoons in Japan: What you should know appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

Rail travel serves as a primary means of transportation in Japan. The Yokosuka Line, for example, spans 73 kilometers or 45 miles, originating in central Tokyo. International travelers can purchase a Japan Rail Pass, which provides quick and easy access to these efficient trains.

The Yokosuka Line, or Yokosuka-sen, was one of the first railways in Japan, built in 1889 to provide transportation to and from a strategic military base on the peninsula. Over the years, the line was extended to facilitate increased rail traffic – nearly 100,000 riders per day. Today, it not only relieves big-city congestion, but it provides travelers access Tokyo staples such as Tokyo Station’s Shinkansen bullet trains and the Yamanote Loop Line.

How can you use your JR Pass to navigate Tokyo and the Yokosuka Line? We’re here to help.

JR Yokosuka Line Stations

While the Yokosuka Line officially begins south of Ofuna Station and stretches for nearly 24 kilometers, the entire railway from Tokyo Station to Kurihama Station is often called by this name, both by passengers and by operator JR East.

There are 19 stations along the Yokosuka Line. The full Yokosuka Line station list includes:

• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Station
• Shinagawa Station
• Nishi-Oi Station
• Musashi-Kosugi Station
• Shin-Kawasaki Station
• Yokohama Station
• Hodogaya Station
• Higashi-Totsuka Station
• Totsuka Station
• Ofuna Station
• Kita-Kamakura Station
• Kamakura Station
• Zushi Station
• Higashi-Zushi Station
• Taura Station
• Yokosuka Station
• Kinugasa Station
• Kurihama Station

Most trains along the Yokosuka Line are local trains. This means that they stop at all stations rather than just the main stations. These trains are somewhat slower than other train services such as the fabled bullet trains, reaching maximum speeds of 120 kilometers or 75 miles per hour.

Tokyo Station provides rail connections to virtually every part of mainland Japan, as well as transfers to other train lines, including the subway and the Narita Express to Narita International Airport.

Shimbashi Station and Shinagawa Station are other important stations along the Yokosuka Line. They provide access to the Yamanote Loop Line.

Through service is available to the Sobu Line.

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JR Yokosuka Line Map

The Yokosuka Line links central Tokyo to the Kanagawa prefecture and popular destinations such as Kawasaki, Yokohama, Kamakura, and Yokosuka. Its route runs parallel to the Tokaido Main Line, the Yamanote line, and the Keihin-Tohoku Line.

The portion of the line between Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station is subterranean, or underground.

Visit the map below to find out if the JR Yokosuka Line serves your destination.

Interesting Sights Along the Yokosuka Line

Tokyo itself is one of the biggest destinations in Japan. This “neon city” never sleeps, providing diversions to travels both day and night.

From Shimbashi Station, you can walk to the high-class shopping district of Ginza. More shopping is available in the commercial district surrounding Ofuna Station. You may be able to reach your hotel or discover a delectable restaurant near Shinagawa Station. Whether you are interested in shopping, cosplay, history, cuisine, or green spaces, Tokyo has something to interest you.

If you are interested in viewing some of Tokyo’s historic temples, consider a walk near Kita-Kamakura Station. These include Engakuji, famous for its massive bell; Shozokuin with its tooth of Buddha; Tokeiji, known as the “Divorce Temple;” the “Nectar Well” of Jochiji; and Ennoji, which is dedicated to the “Ten Judges of Hell,” among others. Some of the temples were founded nearly 1,000 years ago. The nearby Kamakura Station provides access to an additional 19 Shinto shrines and 65 Buddhist temples.

The Yokosuka Line travels through the Miura Peninsula along the coast of Tokyo Bay. Locals consider this area a “summer getaway” from the busy streets of Tokyo. Beaches are a must during warm weather, and on a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji. Zushi is a favorite beach but it is often crowded.

If you don’t like crowds, there are dozens of other beaches to choose from. Jogashima Island, “a wild and windswept place,” can be accessed from Misaki. Or, you can catch a ferry from Kurihama to the larger Chiba peninsula.

Seafood and farmer’s markets also abound on the peninsula. The large daikon radish is the most well-known product of the area.

Will you be using the Yokosuka Line on your next trip to Japan. With your JR Pass in hand, you are ready to go!

The post The JR Yokosuka Line appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

The large city of Tokyo is divided into a number of special wards or municipalities. Tokyo’s Shibuya ward is home to the neighborhood of Ebisu, which contains a JR East railway station of the same name.

The station and neighborhood are named after Yebisu Beer. The brewery was once located adjacent to the station, which opened in 1906. In fact, the station itself was initially the brewery’s transportation hub. The brewery, in turn, was named for the Japanese god of fishermen and luck, Ebisu-sama. One of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods, you’ll find his likeness in statues outside the station.

Will your next Tokyo adventure take you through Ebisu Station? Use this handy guide to learn everything you need to know about utilizing Ebisu Station and enjoying its environs.

Ebisu Station’s JR Lines

The Japan Rail Pass helps foreign travelers use Japan’s extensive railway system as an affordable and efficient means of transportation. Ebisu Station is home to a number of lines covered by the JR Pass. These include:

• Yamanote Loop Line
• Saikyo Line
• Shonan-Shinjuku Line

These lines are accessed from two island platforms that together serve four tracks.

You can use track one to take the Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro Station, Shibuya Station, or Shinjuku Station; track two to access Shinagawa, Tokyo, and Ueno Stations.

Track three serves the Saikyo Line to Osaki, the Rinkai Line to Shin-Kiba, and the Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Omiya, Utsunomiya, and Takasaki Stations. Finally, track four allows you to take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Yokohama, Ofuna, Odawara, and Zushi Stations.

Interestingly, this station has a unique melody known as “The Third Man Theme” or the “Ebisu Theme,” which is used to announce train departures. The melody was formerly used in television commercials for Ebisu beer.

Non-JR Lines

Ebisu Station also serves the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. The subway station consists of two side platforms that serve two tracks.

Platform one serves trains bound for Naka-Meguro, and platform two the trains to Roppongi Station, Ginza, Ueno, and Kita-Senju Stations. The latter also serves the Tobu Skytree Line for Kuki and Minami-Kurihashi Stations. Tokyo Metro trains are not covered by the JR Pass.

Ebisu Station Layout

You will find the Tokyo Metro Station on the west end of Ebisu’s first floor. Restrooms, shops, a ticket office, and coin lockers are also found at this level.

The second floor contains the JR platforms. The third floor contains restrooms, shops, coin lockers, and a concourse to the Garden Place on the station’s east end.

Things to do near Ebisu Station

The neighborhood around the station is known by locals as a place to relax, eat a meal, and enjoy art. It’s a great place to visit after sightseeing in nearby Shibuya.

Shopping

The Yebisu Beer Factory for which Ebisu Station was named closed in 1982. The area has since been redeveloped into the high-rise complex known as the Yebisu Garden Place. This commercial complex is home to shops, a movie theater, a hotel, and more. It has been called a “city within a city.”

Connected directly to the station is the Arte Ebisu shopping center. There, you’ll find fashion, cosmetics, sweets, and souvenirs in a less crowded environment.

Museums

Within the Yebisu Garden Place is the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, which has three exhibitions spanning as many floors. Or, you can learn about a century of brewing at the admission-free Museum of Ebisu Beer. Samples are available in the tasting salon for 400 yen.

The Yamantane Museum is located ten minutes from Ebisu Station. It specializes in Japanese art, with nearly 2,000 pieces on display.

Food

There are restaurants galore within walking distance of Ebisu Station. If you’d like to try the famous Ebisu beer, stop in at Beer Station Yebisu, where you can sample seven different varieties. The building also hosts a free observatory on the thirty-eighth floor with views of Tokyo.

Three minutes from the station is Ebisu Yokocho, a cluster of twenty izakayas, or informal Japanese pubs. You can sample Japanese culinary staples like teppanyaki, yakitori, and oden. You can also indulge in karaoke and Japanese drinking culture.

Foodies with a sweet tooth should not neglect a visit to Blue Seal, an Okinawan ice cream shop with only eight locations outside of Okinawa. Or, sample unique ramen flavors at Afuri.

The post Ebisu Station travel guide appeared first on Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass.

Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan, located on Tokyo Bay south of Tokyo. It is the capital city of the Kanagawa Prefecture. In the Nishi-ku ward of this commercial hub, you will find Yokohama Station.

This station originally opened in 1872, and the current location was founded in 1928. Today, it is the fifth-busiest train station in the world, serving over 760 million passengers each year.

Yokohama Station Train Lines

Many lines, operated by different railways, are available through Yokohama Station. As a major railway intersection in the city of Yokohama, you can use this station to make connections between lines.

JR Lines

You’ll be able to use your Japan Rail Pass to travel quickly and easily on most JR East lines. These include the Tokaido Main Line, Yokosuka Line, Yokohama Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and the Negishi Line, as well as the Narita Express to Narita Airport.

Taking the Shinkansen to Yokohama

The Tokaido Shinkansen trains, operated by JR Central, do not pass through Yokohama Station. Rather, it uses Shin-Yokohama Station in a neighboring ward. To access the Shinkansen, you can take the local Blue Line from Yokohama to Shin-Yokohama Station.

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Non-JR Lines

A number of non-JR railway companies also operate through Yokohama Station. These include Keikyu’s Keikyu Main Line, the Tokyu Corporation’s Tokyu Toyoko Line, Yokohama Minatomirai Railway’s Minatomirai Line, Sagami Railway’s Sagami Railway Main Line, and the Yokohama City Transportation Bureau’s Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line B20. In most cases, your JR Pass will not be applicable on these lines.

Yokohama Station Map

Yokohama Station is actually three train stations in one, each operated by a different railway: Keikyu’s Station is located at 1 Takashima, JR East’s station at 2 Takashima. The station serving Tokyu, Sotetsu, and the subway is located at 1 Minami-Saiwai.

The Keikyu and JR East platforms can be found in the primary above-ground portion of the station. Keikyu uses platforms 1 and 2, JR East platforms 3 to 10. Tokyu and Yokohama Minatomirai use the underground portion of the station. Their platforms are located on level 5. The Municipal Subway is located west of the main station on basement level 3. Finally, Sagami uses above-ground platforms connected to the Sotetsu Department Store, located west of the main station.

Look for “green windows” for ticketing. The window at Midori no Madoguchi handles JR ticketing (and you can activate your JR Pass there), and the View Plaza window handles all lines. Automatic ticket vending machines can be found at the Midori no Madoguchi, the North Kita Ticket Gate, North Central Chuo-Kita Ticket Gate, and South Minami Ticket Gate.

Coin lockers for storing luggage are located near the escalators on basement level 1, just inside the West Entrance, and in the Central passage near the Keikyu Central Entrance.

Bus services are also available from Yokohama Station. Three terminals are located in the station, with two more nearby. Day and overnight expressway buses can be taken to major airports, Tokyo Disney Resort, or other stations. Local buses are also available. Bus stops can be found at the station’s East and West Exits.

How to Get to Yokohama Station

Yokohama Station serves as an intersection of both JR and non-JR train lines. You can reach Yokohama Station using any of the train lines listed above.

From Yokohama Station to Tokyo

Because of their proximity and the popularity of both locations, a number of different routes can be used to reach Tokyo from Yokohama Station, making Yokohama a popular day trip from Tokyo.

For example, you can take either the Yokosuka or Keihin-Tohoku Lines directly between Yokohama and Tokyo Station. Or, you could take the Tokaido Line to Shinagawa Station.

Also, the Narita Express can take you directly from and to Narita Airport.

Read more: Tokyo to Yokohama travel options

Things to Do Near Yokohama Station

When traveling through Yokohama Station, there is plenty to do in the surrounding area. Do you like shopping? You can shop to your heart’s content without ever leaving the station. The station’s underground mall also connects to buildings surrounding the station.

From the station’s east side, you can easily access the Porta underground shopping mall, Sogo department store, Lumine shopping building, Marui department store, and Bay Quarter Yokohama, as well as the Yokohama Central Post Office, Yokohama Plaza Hotel, and the Yokohama Sky Building.

From the west entrance, you will find, the Diamond underground mall, Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, Daiei supermarket, and CIAL, Sotetsu Joinus, Yokohama More’s, and Vivre shopping buildings, as well as several hotels and the Sotetsu Movil 109 cinemas.

Other points of interest include the Yokohama Landmark Tower, the second tallest building in Japan. It is located next to the Yokohama Museum of Art. The Hara Model Railway Museum is located on the second floor of the Yokohama Mitsu Building.

Are you feeling hungry after your travels? Nishi-ku has plenty of restaurants to satisfy any foodie, including Craftsman Italian restaurant, Ginza Tenichi tempura, Mawashizushi Katsu for sushi, and El Torito Mexican restaurant, all within a short walk of the station.

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