JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass

More about JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass

JR Kansai Wide Area Pass

The Kansai region in Japan is home to some of the most culturally significant cities, vibrant local markets, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks. For travelers eager to explore the best of Kansai, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass provides an excellent way to travel across the region with ease and affordability. Whether you’re planning to visit ancient temples, bustling markets, or iconic parks, this pass grants access to various transportation options, including the Shinkansen.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass, including its price, benefits, and the top attractions you can visit using it. Let’s dive into the details and see how this pass can make your trip to Kansai smooth and enjoyable.

What is the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass?

The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is a special rail pass designed for international tourists visiting Japan under a short-term stay visa. It offers unlimited travel on specific JR train lines across the Kansai region, including access to the Shinkansen and express trains. The pass covers major cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, and Wakayama, making it ideal for those who want to explore multiple regional destinations.

This pass is valid for three days, five days, or a full week and allows travelers to hop on and off trains freely within the designated areas. Whether you’re interested in seeing ancient temples in Kyoto, shopping in Osaka, or visiting Nara’s famous deer park, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass provides convenient and cost-effective transportation.

Pricing & Validity Period

The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is an excellent option for travelers visiting several cities throughout the Kansai region. The pricing is competitive, offering great value for travelers visiting multiple cities, as individual train tickets between major destinations can be expensive.

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the available pricing options, ensuring there is a suitable package for solo travelers, families, and those seeking either short or extended stays:

(e-MCO) 5-Day Pass

• Adult: Rp1.263.556
• Children (aged 6-11): Rp 631.719

(e-MCO) Excursion 3-Day Pass

• Adult: Rp1.263.556
• Children (aged 6-11): Rp 631.719

Kansai Area WIDE 5-Day Pass & Kinosaki Must-Visits 3-Day Pass

• Adult: Rp1.326.681

[COMBO] (e-MCO) 5-Day Pass & Have Fun in Okayama 1 Week Free Pass

• Adult: Rp1.347.801

Kansai Metropolitan Area Rail Pass 5-Day Pass + Wakayama Enjoy Pass 1 Week Free Pass

• Adult: Rp1.347.801

Benefits for Buyers

The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass offers several benefits, making it a must-have for tourists traveling across Kansai. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Unlimited Travel: The pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Sanyo Shinkansen (between Shin-Osaka and Okayama), limited express trains, and local JR lines. Thus, you can travel freely without worrying about ticket costs or availability.
• Access to the Shinkansen: The pass covers the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass Shinkansen route between Shin-Osaka and Okayama, allowing you to experience Japan’s famous high-speed bullet trains.
• Cost-Effective: If you plan to visit multiple cities in Kansai, the pass is far more cost-effective than buying individual tickets for each journey. Even a single round-trip between Osaka and Kyoto on the Shinkansen can make the pass worth it.
• Flexibility: The pass offers flexibility in terms of travel, allowing you to visit as many cities and attractions as you wish, with the duration based on the package you choose.
• Convenient Travel: You can avoid the hassle of purchasing tickets for each journey, saving time and simplifying your trip. Simply show your pass when boarding JR trains and Shinkansen.

Coverage Area

The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass covers an extensive area, making it ideal for exploring the Kansai region and nearby destinations. Here’s a list of the main areas and cities included in the coverage:

• Osaka: The bustling heart of Kansai, is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping districts, and iconic landmarks like Osaka Castle.
• Kyoto: Famous for its historic temples, shrines, and traditional culture, Kyoto is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
• Kobe: A port city known for its beautiful harbor views, Kobe beef, and scenic Mount Rokko.
• Nara: Home to Nara Park, it's freely roaming deer, and ancient temples like Todai-ji.
• Okayama: Known for its beautiful Korakuen Garden, historic Okayama Castle, and its association with the legendary tale of Momotaro, Okayama offers a blend of natural beauty, culture, and folklore, making it a unique and charming destination.

Types of Transportation Included

The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass provides access to various types of transportation, ensuring you can easily reach all corners of the Kansai region. Depending on your package, the pass grants you unlimited rides on local trains, rapid services, and even certain express trains, making it convenient for short day trips and more extended explorations. 

Here’s a detailed look at what’s included in each package option, so you can choose the one that best suits your travel plans:

(e-MCO) 5-Day Pass

• JR Pass Kansai Wide Area 5-Day Pass (e-MCO Ticket) for 1 Visitor
• Unlimited Travel within the Designated Area on the Map
• Reserved Seats on the Sanyo Shinkansen (Between Shin-Osaka and Okayama)
• Reserved Seats on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen
• Reserved Seats on Limited Express Trains Such as Haruka, Kuroshio, Konotori, and Super Hakuto
• Access to Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and Local Trains on JR-West and JR-Shikoku Conventional Lines

(e-MCO) Excursion 3-Day Pass

• JR Pass Kansai Wide Area Excursion 3-Day Pass (e-MCO Ticket) for 1 Visitor
• Unlimited Quota for Reserved Seats (for Bookings After October 2023)
• Sanyo Shinkansen: Shin-Osaka to Okayama (Reserved Seat Ticket Applicable)
• New Rapid, Rapid, and Local Trains on JR West Conventional Lines (Zairaisen)
• JR West Regular Route Buses (Express Buses Not Applicable)

Kansai Area WIDE 5-Day Pass & Kinosaki Must-Visits 3-Day Pass 

• JR Pass Kansai Wide Area 5-Day Pass (e-MCO Ticket) for 1 Visitor
• Kinosaki Must-Visits 3-Day Pass for 1 Visitor
• Unlimited Travel within the Designated Area on the Map (Refer to the Images in the "What You’ll Experience" Section)
• Reserved Seats on the Sanyo Shinkansen (Between Shin-Osaka and Okayama)
• Reserved Seats on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen
• Reserved Seats on Limited Express Trains Such as Haruka, Kuroshio, Konotori, and Super Hakuto
• Access to Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and Local Trains on JR-West and JR-Shikoku Conventional Lines

[COMBO] (e-MCO) 5-Day Pass & Have Fun in Okayama 1 Week Free Pass

• JR Pass Kansai Wide Area 5-Day Pass (e-MCO Ticket) for 1 Visitor
• Have Fun in Okayama 1 Week Free Pass
• Unlimited Travel within the Designated Area on the Map (Refer to the Images in the "What You’ll Experience" Section)
• Reserved Seats on the Sanyo Shinkansen (Between Shin-Osaka and Okayama)
• Reserved Seats on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen
• Reserved Seats on Limited Express Trains Such as Haruka, Kuroshio, Konotori, and Super Hakuto
• Access to Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and Local Trains on JR-West and JR-Shikoku Conventional Lines

Kansai Metropolitan Area Rail Pass 5-Day Pass + Wakayama Enjoy Pass 1 Week Free Pass

• The pass is only valid on WEST JAPAN JR BUS route buses within the valid area, note that the pass cannot be used on expressway buses
• Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and Local trains on JR-WEST Conventional lines
• Reserved seats on Express Trains HARUKA, KUROSHIO, THUNDERBIRD, KOUNOTORI, SUPER HAKUTO, SUPER INABA, etc.
• Reserved seats on Bullet Train "SANYO SHINKANSEN" (Shin-Osaka - Okayama); The pass can be used for the Hello Kitty Shinkansen

Top 5 Attractions in Kansai

With the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass, you can easily access some of the most iconic attractions in the region. Here are the top five must-visit destinations in Kansai:

1. Nara Park

Located in the city of Nara, Nara Park is famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer population. Visitors can interact with these sacred animals and even feed them special deer crackers. The park is also home to Todai-ji, a massive Buddhist temple housing the Great Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine.

2. Kuromon Ichiba Market

If you’re a foodie, Kuromon Ichiba Market in Osaka is a must-visit. Known as "Osaka’s Kitchen," this vibrant market is filled with fresh seafood, street food stalls, and traditional Japanese snacks. Whether you're craving sushi, grilled octopus, or exotic fruits, Kuromon Ichiba offers an authentic culinary experience.

3. Tsutenkaku Tower

An iconic symbol of Osaka, Tsutenkaku Tower offers panoramic city views from its observation deck. The tower is in the retro Shinsekai district, known for its nostalgic atmosphere, local eateries, and unique shops. After visiting the tower, explore the surrounding streets to immerse yourself in Osaka’s local culture.

4. Fushimi Inari Shrine

One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is known for its thousands of red torii gates, which create a stunning pathway up Mount Inari. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and a popular spot for tourists and locals. A hike through the Torii Gates offers breathtaking views of Kyoto and a peaceful escape from the city.

5. Arashiyama Park

Arashiyama Park, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, is a beautiful area known for its bamboo forest, scenic river views, and historic temples. The park is trendy during the cherry blossom and autumn when the leaves change color. Visitors can also take a boat ride along the Hozu River or visit the famous Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Unlock the wonders of the Kansai region and beyond with the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass—your ultimate ticket to a seamless and unforgettable journey! Enjoy unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, and experience the convenience and freedom to explore Japan’s iconic cities and landmarks. 

Whether you’re soaking in the rich history of Kyoto, diving into the vibrant culture of Osaka, or strolling through the scenic beauty of Nara, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass ensures you travel in comfort and style, all while enjoying incredible value. Book now on Traveloka and discover Kansai like never before!