Exploring Japan by Rail: An Odyssey Through the Land of the Rising Sun

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

With over 30,000 kilometers of railway tracks, Japan boasts one of the most extensive and efficient railway networks globally. Trains serve as the ultimate mode of transportation for traversing the country, offering access to almost every corner, from the northern reaches of Hokkaido to the southern shores of Kyushu. With its swift speeds, top-notch service, and comfortable amenities, train travel itself becomes an enriching experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes unfolding outside their windows.

Once considered the go-to choice for travel within Japan, the Japan Rail Pass faced a price hike in 2023, rendering it less appealing for certain travelers. In response, Japan Experience has introduced an online train ticket service on March 1, 2024, aimed at providing an alternative and further simplifying travel arrangements for those journeying to Japan.

“After the Japan Rail Pass price increase, some of our travelers
were looking for another solution to continue traveling by
train in Japan” Thierry Maincent

In collaboration with Japan Railways (JR), the primary railway company in Japan, Japan Experience has introduced a new online service enabling the purchase of individual train tickets. Leveraging its expertise and standing as the foremost distributor of the Japan Rail Pass worldwide, this initiative extends the company’s offerings to encompass a comprehensive range of travel options within Japan.

This innovative service supplements Japan Experience’s existing lineup, which includes regional train passes, Japanese public transport cards, and a wealth of online resources comprising articles and advice. With this expansion, Japan Experience emerges as the sole provider worldwide to offer such an extensive array of train travel solutions within Japan.

The option to purchase tickets in advance proves invaluable, alleviating the stress and potential difficulties associated with on-site booking. Moreover, it affords travelers the opportunity to secure their seats ahead of time, particularly during peak travel periods, mitigating the risk of encountering fully booked trains upon arrival.

Travelers are presented with a myriad of choices, including various ticket types featuring reserved or open seating, Second Class or First Class accommodations, and even seats offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Further enhancements are in the pipeline, such as the option to reserve additional or oversized baggage, access to an expanded range of routes across Japan, and the introduction of special and distinctive train experiences throughout the country—all designed to enhance convenience and ensure an unforgettable journey for travelers.

“We continually invest in our platform and technology
capabilities to provide travelers with everything they
need, on one website.” Thierry Maincent

Following the introduction of our JRP Carbon-free initiative, enabling travelers with a Japan Rail Pass to offset a portion of their carbon footprint while exploring Japan, this train ticket service signifies a broader commitment to eco-conscious tourism.

By facilitating hassle-free train ticket reservations in Japan, Japan Experience aims to uphold accessibility to the extensive Japanese railway network while promoting train travel as the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

“More than ever, Japan Experience’s mission is to help
promote more sustainable tourism by making train travel
simple and accessible.” Thierry Maincent

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