Japanese Rail Pass
 

Hi there, could anyone tell me what the Japanese Rail Pass covers. Does it let you travel on all rail networks or is it restricted. I noticed ther is private rail networks and was not sure if the rail pass allowed travel on those.

Thanks

Soulo

Japan Rail Pass only cover JR rails. This is not all rails, so indeed, you would be restricted.

They are also not valid on the NOZOMI trains (the fastest of the Shinkansen).

Full details here: JAPAN RAIL PASS validity

You can't use it on the Tokyo subway either. But JR does have a network around Tokyo. I just used the subway coz I found it easier and it was cheap anyway. The JR pass is most useful for lots of long distance trips.

If i'm looking to only go to a few places outside of Tokyo, day trips at the most, is it easier, or cheaper, NOT to get a japan rail pass?

I would only be looking to go to a few locations just outside of Tokyo but nowhere further and i don't see the need on spending so much on a JR pass if im only gonna use it once or twice.

Yes. I would say if you are not planning on going to another city using the shinkansen, then chances are you will be wasting money on a rail pass. I was recently in Tokyo, and rode subways (NOT covered by the rail pass) more often than JR trains.

Phew thats good to know, didnt want to spend even more money on this trip than i had to.
Would you happen to know roughly how much for a trip outside of tokyo to neighbouring areas?

It really just depends on the location. If you know where you want to go it will be easier to give an answer.

I'll most likely be staying in the Kanto region during this trip, I did have the places jotted down somewhere but for the life of me can't seem to find it. it'll be mostly any places of interest in Kanto with the obvious exception of Tokyo.

if by the time you got to Japan and the 18Kippu is available , it would save you a lot using it, rather than the JR railway pass.

also if you are going around Kanto are , check out the DoNichi Kippu( Weekend Pass ).

other available passes are , Tobu Railway Pass for Nikko/Tochigi area,
the Odakyu Pass for Hakone-Yumoto Area