RoutePass Guide

Japan plan

First Time Japan Transportation Guide

Start with airport transfer choice, an IC card, and pass checks only for long-distance or route-heavy days.

Quick recommendation

Estimated single-ticket cost is ¥18,000. Start by comparing Suica / Pasmo / ICOCA, then use IC cards for uncovered local rides.

Suggested daily route

  1. Day 1: Airport to city
  2. Day 2: IC card setup
  3. Day 3: City travel
  4. Day 4: Intercity ride
  5. Day 5: Regional day trip
  6. Day 6: Luggage-forwarding buffer
  7. Day 7: Airport return

Estimated transport cost

¥18,000

Recommended pass

Suica / Pasmo / ICOCA

When not to buy a pass

Skip a pass when your route is city-only, when private railway coverage is better, or when your expensive rides fall outside the pass validity window.

Airport arrival route

Plan airport transfer separately first. Then check if a pass should begin on arrival day or later, after the transport-heavy portion starts.

Common first-time visitor mistakes

  • Activating a long-distance pass for low-value local travel days.
  • Assuming airport transfer tickets and city passes are the same purchase.
  • Ignoring luggage and station walking time in the route plan.

Use Pass Finder

Adjust cities, travel days, Shinkansen use, and airport plan to check this itinerary.

Open Pass Finder

FAQ

What should first-time visitors buy first?

An IC card or mobile IC setup is usually the simplest starting point.