Welcome to the Hokuriku Arch Pass, the New Golden Route connecting Tokyo to Kyoto via Kanazawa. We appreciate when you purchase through our affiliate link: geni.us/hokurikuarchpass
Hi! Hiw much time would it take using the arch pass from kyoto to osaka. And from osaka to tokyo then tokyo to haneda airport. Just wondrin how much time will be spent if this is the pass im gonna take. Thank you!
On my first visit to Japan in 2016 we caught the shinkansen to Nagano to spend a few nights in a ryokan at Shibu Onsen and see the snow monkeys. Spectacular! Then we stayed in Kinosaki for a few nights before catching the Thunderbird to Kyoto. This pass would cover this perfectly and be a little cheaper. A great part of Japan to visit, highly recommended.
Sounds like a wonderful trip! We really like this area of Japan and will probably use the Hokuriku Arch Pass again, so we can stop at slightly different places.
Thank you so much! Me and my friend want to go to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara but not interested in Kanazawa so we opted to buy shinkansen tickets and Kansai Area Pass. Your videos still helped a lot! Keep the content coming!
I’ve been to Japan in 2022 and 2023…traveled all the way north to Sapporo and west to Fukkoka via JR Rail Pass (before the Oct 23 price hike). I’m looking to return for a third time in four years (next winter 25) using the Hokuriku Arch Pass to see Niigata, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and hopefully one of the famous onsens nearby.
This was so helpful!! Oh my gosh thank you guys. I've been researching so much on this pass to see if it was worth it for doing a round trip feom tokyo to kyoto with small day trips and this helped me so much. Thank you guys.
Thanks so much for the great information! My husband and I love your videos. We are heading to Japan next week and hoping to sneak in a day trip to Kurobe Gorge when in Kanazawa. Looking forward to your video. Thanks!
Thanks so much for this video. We will be going to Japan in April and decided to rent a car and drive from Tokyo to Kyoto via the new golden route and back taking the original golden route. If you have a link to a video of yours with a great itinerary by car with stops off the beaten track to really experience Japan, that would be great! Thanks, Tim
Hi, we are still working on an itinerary for the Hokuriku route but a couple of places that we highly recommend are Matsumoto and Ainokura. There is a lot to explore in these areas where a car makes it easy.
I'd love to see a sample itinerary for the Hokuriku Arch Pass. I will be traveling to Japan in March 2025 and will be there for 13 days. Thanks! Love your videos!
The Hokuriku Shinkansen line will be extended past Kanazawa to Tsuruga Station, which will make getting from Tokyo to Tsuruga Station faster. It will probably save at least half an hour.
One side trip from Nagano are the spa resorts in the surrounding mountains. You may have suggestions on nice places to stay. I stayed at Kanaguya near Yudanaka Station. The hotel had wooden beams, a fireplace, and maze like halls leading to small onsen baths.
Thank you for this video. Your videos are always so helpful. In scanning the Arch Pass, there is just one class of tickets? No Green Car option like other Shinkansen tickets. I understand there is an additional charge for Reserved and Gran Class Seats. How do I reserve these seats once I have the pass? Thanks again!
Hi. The Hokuriku Arch pass covers Ordinary Reserved Seats and Ordinary Non-Reserved Seats. However, some of the trains only have reserved seating. You can reserve seats using a Reserved Seat Ticketing Machine or by visiting a JR office. If you purchase the pass directly through JR East, you can also reserve seats through their website www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/hokurikuarch.html It might be possible to pay extra to upgrade to Green or Gran Class, but I don't have any experience with doing that. I would ask at a JR ticket office. 🌸 Heidi
Hi! First of all let me thank you for this detailed video, it is very clear and actually a life saeviour! My boyfriend and me both want to go yes or yes to Nagano for a couple of days, and was like a jigzaw puzzle with many missing parts until we saw your video ❤ My only question is if It's possible to buy two 7 day tickets in a row (to travel 14 days) or as it goes with passport they will know you already purchaised once and won't allow you a second time? Thanks
Hi. It's normally possible to purchase two of the same pass, as long as the dates don't overlap. However, I'm not sure if purchasing two Hokuriku Arch Passes for 60,000 Yen total per person would be helpful to you. Most passes are beneficial when you are moving onto the next city each day or two. It's also possible to purchase the individual Shinkansen tickets you need, such as Tokyo to Nagano. Here's our separate vide on buying Shinkansen tickets online: ruclips.net/video/GD0Tp7zGSeo/видео.html You may also find this other video on traveling Japan by train helpful: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.html 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Thank you again so much for the detailed response. We are still organizing the trip, and trust me, we will considere SO MUCH your suggestions and advices, since from all the vídeos I've seen on your chanel, are always right about Japan... I really can't understand why your channel doesn't have the reach it deserves 💔
Thank u so much for ur tips. I’ve been crying bc I’m traveling to Japan tomorrow and unable to secure jrpass online and had to find an alternative way to get to universal studios
Hi. If you just need to go directly from Tokyo to Osaka, you could purchase a Shinkansen train ticket from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. Here's our video explaining how to purchase online from Klook: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html You could also buy Shinkansen train tickets once you arrive in Japan. Either at a ticketing office or ticketing machine.
OMG i was able to call the JR East people and realized the website was "down" because it is unavailable during non-business hours in japan. I was just able to buy the JR pass online, and the rep on the phone said it's ok that I have not printed them, as long as i have the reservation number.. i hope it works@@KenshoQuest
Thanks to all your videos we are doing this in late October! Planning on renting a car in Kanazawa. Do we need to reserve it now or are they pretty easy to reserve a few days before?
Hi, you can rent up to several months in advance. I recommend checking the availability ahead of time to check. Toyota rental car service has been very good for us.
It looks like JR Group is raising the price of the Hokuriku Arch Pass by 5000 yen this March. Now while it isn’t a major price increase like the JR Rail Pass was, it’s still significant as most of the regional passes have had price hikes.
Hi! We are going to travel with the Hokuriku pass! So excited. Is your video about the Kurobe Gorge ready? We are still doubting to go or not to go.....🙂
Very informative video! I have just subscribed to your channel today. I am thinking of a 14-Day trip to Japan in May 2024. The places I am thinking of going to include Tokyo, Hakone, Yamanashi, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Takamatsu, Hiroshima and Takayama. Do you think a JR pass would be viable given the increased prices and, if not, what other passes, like this one, should I look into? Thanks in advance.
Hi. For a side trip from Tokyo to Hakone, we recommend the Hakone Free Pass. Here's our video on that: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html For the rest of your trip, you can use the JR Fare Calculator to add up what it would cost for reserved seats and compare that to the JR Pass: kenshoquest.com/recommends/jrpass-fare-calculator/ Whether you are going round trip back to Tokyo makes a big difference on whether the JR Pass is worth it. Here's our Beginner's Guide to the JR Pass, where we demonstrate using the fare calculator: ruclips.net/video/fUn5MCYFjNU/видео.html
I'm so grateful for your informative content. I've used many of your amazon links, will buy July luggage, and now have questions about transport before I use your affiliate links to buy public transportation passes. 1st time traveling to Japan and need your help please. Which Shinkansen, Regional pass, Hokuriku, JR pass, etc. should our family of 4 get for our 20-day trip. Details: 7.25.24 (day 1) arrive in Osaka ITM, (day 1-3 stay in Osaka). Travel Osaka to Kyoto (days 3-8 stay in Kyoto) with a day trip to Nara. Kyoto to Takayama (stay in Takayama days 9-10) with a day trip Nikko. Go Takayama to Kanazawa (stay in Kanazawa day 11-13). Kanazawa to Tokyo (stay in Tokyo days 14-20) with day trip to Hakone and other areas. Fly out of Tokyo Narita Airport. Thank you so very much for your help, I'm lost when it comes to public transportation, but feel encouraged by your videos that I'll be able to manage it with your help.
Hi. For the first portion of your trip, you could use an IC card to pay for local transportation. When you arrive in Osaka you can each get an ICOCA card. It's a rechargeable card that you can use to pay for local trains and buses. That should be sufficient for the Osaka, Kyoto, Nara portion of your trip. For going from Kyoto to Takayama, you may wan to consider the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, which is a 5 day pass (19,800 Yen). Here is the info: touristpass.jp/en/takayama_hokuriku/ Where do you want to visit as a side trip from Takayama? Nikko is very far from there. Perhaps Shirakawago? After using the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass you would still need to buy a ticket for the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa to Tokyo (which is around 14,380 Yen for an ordinary reserved seat). Another option would be to get the Hokuriku Arch Pass which can take you from Kyoto to Toyama. You would need to pay separately to get from Toyama to Takayama. The Hokuriku Arch Pass would also cover Kanazawa to Tokyo. It's a 7-day pass and costs 30,000 Yen per adult. This is probably the option I would choose, but please look at the map: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/hokuriku-arch-pass/ It only covers the specific route on the map, so going other places like Takayama or Shirakawago you would need to be paid for separately from the pass. Within Tokyo you can again use the ICOCA IC card for local transportation. For a day trip to Hakone I recommend getting the Hakone Free Pass. Here's our video on that: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html You might also find our other video on traveling Japan by train helpful: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.html 🌸 Heidi
why do they only allow 7 days for the train pass? its nowhere near long enough to explore all of the places we want to see. i feel like you need at least 2-3 weeks
The Hokuriku Arch Pass is valid for 7 days, allowing time to make the arch from Tokyo to Osaka. You don’t have to use the pass. You could buy individual Shinkansen and limited express train tickets and go at your own pace. Or you could spend a few days in Tokyo, use the pass for 7 days, and then spend as long as you want in Osaka/Kyoto area. 🌸 Heidi
Um I am not too sure if this pass is actually cheaper without doing a round trip. Tokyo to Kanazawa: ¥14380 Kanazawa to Kyoto: ¥7720 Total = ¥22100 Total < Hokuriku Arch Pass = ¥30000 (still cheaper before the hike) If you intend to backtrack at all or visit a town that's on a branch (such as Wakuraonsen) then it may payoff.
Thank you for the very useful video! If you only had one or two side quests to do (as I'm pressed for time) what would it be - using the hokuriko arch pass. Thanks :)
Hi. I would definitely stop in Kanazawa and stroll through Kenrokuen park. You might want to take a side trip from Nagano to visit Matsumoto Castle. More on that in this video: ruclips.net/video/noob9UpGTNw/видео.htmlsi=NsszuznNb3_Ri0el Or if you like dinosaurs, the museum in Fukui! 🦕 🦖 And from Fukui you can also visit Eihei-Ji temple.
Hi, I love your videos! We plan to take the Hokuriku Pass and travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, and return with a stop in Kanazawa. Question: How do you book seats for each time you get into the train on different days for different trips? thank you in advance
Hi, there are multiple ways. If the ticketing office is not busy you can book all at once. But it does require you to know the dates, times and where you will be traveling. Otherwise, we also use the ticketing machines if we decide on day of travel. Third option is you can book online through the JR East reservations site, but you still need to pickup your tickets at either the ticketing machine or ticketing office and will require your passport.
Very useful and informational video. Thanks! I have a question: I've already paid online . Before we pick up the Hokuriku Arch pass in Japan, can we reserve shinkansen seats before our trip?
Hi, Yes, If you purchased the Hokuriku Arch Pass, I believe you can. Use the JR East website here: www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index Do note, that if you reserve online, you must pick up your tickets the day before 9PM! Otherwise, your reservation will automatically be canceled. Good luck!
Hello Heidi and George! I am from India and absolutely enjoy watching your very informative videos. I wanted to know if I could start using the Hokuriko Arch Pass from Osaka then go on to Kyoto and Tokyo. Our point of entry would be Osaka and exit is Tokyo. Since our trip is about 10 days our pass will expire by the time we are in Tokyo, to cover transport for the rest of the days we intend to use an IC card in Tokyo. Also, should we stay the night in Nagano and Kanazawa? Or can we just hop off the train see the city and get back on the train later in the day? Please let me know if this plan is doable or does the pass work from Tokyo onwards only. Thanks you for your time. ❤
Hi @charudatta1718, Thank you for the kind words :) Yes! You can certainly start from Osaka and use it going to Tokyo. You will love it. There are so many hidden gems along this route :). Please get ICOCA IC card in Osaka since they are in short supply in the Tokyo area.
Hi Both,Thanks for the video.Could you please confirm if we can use the H pass since we re looking to go Tokyo and then Kyoto - Nara and then Kyoto-Osaka
Hi, yes, the Hokuriku Arch Pass covers these areas. However, if you are only visiting these places then you can opt for the cheaper option of purchasing individual shinkansen tickets.
Great Video thanks for sharing. I will be heading to Japan for 14 days in May. Flying in and out of Tokyo. I really want to travel the Hokuriku Arch, but have to travel back to Tokyo. Is this pass still worth it if i have to get a separate Shinkansen back to Tokyo?
Hi, yes, it can be worth it to use the arch pass. We did a similar route and returned to Tokyo purchasing an individual ticket. Do note, the price of the Hokuriku Arch pass will increase starting 15 March. If you want to lock in the current price, you can if you purchase through a vendor like Klook. ( affiliate link ) geni.us/hokurikuarchpass
Hi, Thanks for your video. Are there some cases where the 7 days national JR rail pass would be better than the Hokuriku Arch Pass? Price, more accessible trains, easier way of use...
Yes, there are some itineraries where the 7-Day Whole Japan Rail Pass is a better option. If you will travel long distances and spend the night in a different city almost every night. For example: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Himeji, Tokyo. Here's our video explaining how to figure out if the JR Pass is worth it for your trip: ruclips.net/video/hsrZpVYH-ls/видео.html
Hello Thank you for this video! So using this pass allow you to travel from tokyo to osaka and you can also use it to go back to tokyo? We are traveling next month and we are only traveling from tokyo to osaka and kyoto.
Hi, yes this pass does include your route. However, if you do not plan to spend anytime in places like Kanazawa then you will save money and time by purchasing individual Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka How to Buy Shinkansen Train Tickets on Klook, No JR Pass Needed! ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html
Hi, if you purchase directly from JR then you can only purchase within 30 days of using the pass. However if you purchase from a vendor like Klook then you can purchase 90 days from your journey. So you need to wait a little while before you can purchase for October
Hi, Thank you for this information.. I am going there this october. I just want to ask.. Do you need to buy the pass when im in UK or can I buy it when I am in Japan already?
Hi, you cannot purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass in person in Japan. However, you can purchase it online from the official website while in Japan. But please note, that often times the JR websites do not accept foreign credit cards. So we highly recommend that you purchase before you arrive in Japan.
Hi, yes it does include some trains, but I do not believe it covers Kobe. The best way to know is download the Japan Travel app by Navitime then filter by Hokuriku Arch Pass.
hi ! could you please give details for the Arch Pass Hokuriku transportation other than the Shinkansen & JR Line in tokyo such as yamanote line ? example, could you take a JR bus or other buses while routing to tourist spots along the way ?? thks a lot mates, cheers
Hi. The Hokuriku Arch Pass does not include any buses. You can see the included train lines on this website: www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/hokurikuarch.html
7 days is plenty for stops along the Hokuriku Arch, such as Nagano, Kanazawa, and Fukui. You may want to spend additional days before or after in Tokyo and Osaka.
Hi, thank you for your videos on how to travel Japan. It is very helpful especially for first timers. I have a question, can I purchase the Hokoriku arch pass on Haneda airport without reservation? We plan to go to Japan on Monday, its a spontaneous trip so I didn't have time to book the pass thru klook. So there is not enough time to wait for the Exchange order in the mail.
Sorry, but the Hokuriku Arch Pass can no longer be purchased in-person at JR offices in Japan. Your best option is to purchase through the JR West website: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
Another great video! Do you recommend booking a rental car in advance in Kanazawa? We will be there for 4 nights and don’t know how many days we will want a rental car.
Thanks for the great video, extremely helpful. I’m trying to see if I could purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass before the price increase March 16. Is the 90 days restriction for entry date or start date usage of the pass? My entry to Japan is June 14 and I plan to use the pass in June 17. Do you think I can purchase the ticket on March 15 would work? Thank you for your help.
Hi, so glad the video is helpful! Great question, the 90 days is the date of activation, not entry into Japan. Please take into consideration that Japan is almost a day ahead. You don't want to make a mistake. Good luck and have a great trip, it's an amazing area to visit :)
Thank you very much for the detailed explanation! Just a quick question regarding pick up. If I want to take advantage of this pass starting from Kyoto to Tokyo, where in Kyoto can I pick up the pass? I couldn’t find pick up location for Kyoto on East JR website. Thanks again!
Thank you for the informative video, my wife and I will be going to Japan for our honeymoon in April 2024. I am strongly considering this pass after watching your video. Hopefully the Shinkansen extension will be complete by then. Do you know if I'll be able to lock in the old rate if purchased, say in early March or late feb? (Traveling first week of April) Thanks again
Hi. You can purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass from Klook within 90 days of redeeming it in Japan. That means you could purchase it in February and use it in April. 🌺 Heidi
We're arriving and departing from Kansai airport in April. We'd like to explore mainly Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo. Looking to save money on transport. Would you recommend this pass or is there another pass to consider?
Hi. With sticking to those major cities, I’m not sure you’d save money with a transportation pass. You could pay for transportation in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Tokyo with an IC card. Then purchase single-journey Shinkansen tickets to and from Tokyo. We share tips on this approach in this other video: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.htmlsi=o2d6JKt9D1emJrg7 There are a variety of passes for the Kansai area, so you could look into those and see if they match your plans. Such as: Kansai Thru Pass, JR Kansai Area Pass, JR Kansai Wide Pass. 🌸 Heidi
Great information, though i have a doubt, so i can use this pass roundtrip from tokyo - osaka-tokyo? Im visiting tokyo 5days tokyo, 3 days Kanazawa and 3 days kobe, using the pass until i go to kanazawa
Thank you for the video, want to ask Is hokoriku arch pass cover this route? - KIX to Kyoto - Osaka to Okayama - Kyoto to Kanazawa - Kanazawa to Tokyo - Tokyo to Narita
Hi. To go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto you can buy a single journey bullet train ticket. Here's our video explaining how to get to Kyoto from Tokyo without a JR Pass: ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html
Hi, yes, it is long since it requires both the Thunderbird Express as well as the Hokuriku Shinkansen but it is a beautiful trip :) Probably only worth it if you have the time.
The Hokuriku Arch Pass requires following the arched path both directions. So both Tokyo - Kanazawa - Kyoto and Kyoto -Kanazawa - Tokyo take about 5 hours. That's compared to not using this pass and going directly Kyoto to Tokyo, which is about 2.5 hours on the Tokaido Shinkansen. @@kerri-annkumar5752
HI, no it doesn't. there really isn't any pass that will cover Mt Fuji, you might be interested in the Fujikyu options, we have a video on that: ruclips.net/video/4828J9OtNiY/видео.html&lc=UgyjtQQ8Ry5ShTDrJfB4AaABAg
@@KenshoQuest thank you for the response. What advice would you give me a first time traveler to Japan… on the type of pass I should get during the four days I am in Osaka for the Expo?
Hello! Thank you very much for this video! We decided to choose this pass instead of the JR Pass. Which city you absolutely recommend to make a stop before Kyoto? We will have 1 or 2 night to spend before to go to Kyoto. Thank you in advance for your answer.
Hi. We recommend stopping in Kanazawa. We highly recommend a walk through Kenrokuen Park and the castle grounds. There are also many museums and ninja related attractions. 🌺 Heidi
Thank you so much for this video. We are visiting Japan end of November and are planning to do Tokyo - Osaka - Kyoto and return home from Tokyo. Since the Hokuriku Arch Pass is only valid for 7 days, is it possible to renew the pass after 7 days? Do you have any tips on how to make it work for a 12 to 13 days trip? We would be spending roughly 4 days in each destination. Thanks again!
Hi. First of all, I only recommend getting the Hokuriku Arch Pass if you plan to stop somewhere along the arched route, such as Kanazawa. If so, you could use the arch pass one direction: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka. And then separately buy a Shinkansen train ticket directly back to Tokyo on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. If you only want to see the three major cities and aren't interested in sightseeing along the arched route, you can simply buy Shinkansen train tickets to go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto on the fastest route. Here's our video explaining how to get from Tokyo to Kyoto: ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html And our other video showing how to buy Shinkansen train tickets online: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html Please let us know if you have any other questions! 🌺 Heidi
Thank you so much for your videos. I'm planning a trip in 8/2024. Can I buy the pass to use in August? How many days in advance do you reserve your spots on the train. Is it better than driving a rental car? I'm thinking of going from Osaka, and fly home from Tokyo. 10 days trip
Hi. It’s still too early to buy the Hokuriku Arch Pass. You can pre-order it from Klook within 90 days of redeeming it in Japan. Train seats can be reserved up to 30 days in advance. This is a great option for a one-way trip from Osaka to Tokyo. 🌸 Heidi
Yes, with the Hokuriku Arch Pass you can reserve a seat from Tokyo all the way to Kanazawa. The train will stop along the way, but just stay on the train. 🌺 Heidi
Hi Heidi and George, thanks so much for your helpful videos. (Looking at Japan Travel by Navitime and online info) Fukui dinosaur museum seems to quite a long trip, either as a daytrip from Kyoto or (preferably) when travelling Kyoto-Kanazawa (same day). Do you think this will be easier / quicker once the Hokuriku Shinkansen extends? I am currently debating dropping the dinosaur musuem off our itinerary because it would mean so many changes and a long day Kyoto-Fukui-Kanazawa... When the Shinkansen extends, do you know if the Tunderbird will still also run Kyoto/Kanazawa or will it only go as far as Tsuruga? Thank you!
Hi, once the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension opens to Tsuruga station it should cut travel to Fukui station by about 1/2 hour. It will also significantly shorten the time from Fukui Station to Kanazawa, making that final trip of your day about 20 minutes compared to about 45 minutes now. So while your time between destinations will be quicker, once you arrive in Fukui, it's still going to take at least one hour to get to the dinosaur museum. We do not know if the Thunderbird will continue to run from Kyoto to Kanazawa but we hope so as it will be a nice alternative.
Hello! I'm planning on heading to Japan last week of May going into the first week of June next year and was wondering if you would recommend doing the Hokuriku Arch Pass or do you think it will be raining? Thanks!
Yes and yes. We recommend doing the Hokuriku Arch Pass. But you probably will get some rainy days. It’s still nice even if it rains. And you could visit museums for indoor time.
Thanks for veru helpful videos👍👍🙏🏻 I plan to go to japan on 3-12 April, landed at Osaka, plan to visit kyoto, matsumoto, hakuba, including the snow corridor (if possible) and fly back from tokyo. Can you share the best itinerary for the trip? Should we stay the might in matsumoto? This Hokoriku pass seem very interesting for my trip. And last question always about luggages, is there any way to send my luggages from kyoto to final hotel in tokyo? Or what you suggest for me and my family? Approx. 3 big luggage and 2 cabin luggage, 5 adults. Again thanks again and looking forward to your valuable experiences. Regards, Herby
Hi Herby, it sounds like you have a pretty good plan and yes the Hokuriku Arch Pass would work perfect for your trip. Of note, on this route you are not required to make special seat reservations for oversized luggage as long as it is not over a combined L+W+D 200cm. Otherwise, if you want to ship, which we do recommend you can have it shipped directly from your hotel in Kyoto to Toyko. Your hotel will most likely be able to assist you with this. We have a separate video on this: ruclips.net/video/TRHupDS-kAk/видео.html Also, yes, we highly recommend spending the night in Matsumoto: ruclips.net/video/noob9UpGTNw/видео.html
The purpose of the Hokuriku Arch Pass is to explore the Hokuriku area of Japan. We don’t fly between Tokyo and Osaka, as the Kansai airport is outside of Osaka. Going directly to Shin-Osaka Station is much more convenient. Plus we don’t like going through airport security and waiting for an airplane. It ends up taking a long time. Trains are our favorite! 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Ah thats makes sense! Since I need directly Osaka to Tokyo perhaps the plane option more suitable for me. I will exploring Japan in May! Thanks Heidi
Hi! This video is really informative, thanks! But I do have a question: if in case I will buy this arch pass on klook by last week of feb, and will be using it my april 29th, is there any possibility that we can pass by the new tsuruga station by then? I was hoping we can cut some travel time with that 😅
That sounds like a good plan. Purchase before March 16, 2024 to get the current price. The Shinkansen extension should open on March 16, so you'll be able to take advantage of it. 🌸 Heidi
Yes, it is possible to buy two passes, as long as the dates don’t overlap. Another option is to buy one pass and then separate Shinkansen train tickets. Here’s our video on how to buy Shinkansen tickets: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.htmlsi=HhLI8rcKIWtFN6N-
Hi, I just looked at the map and I don't think it goes quite that far. I can see it goes as far as Kameoka but from there you might need to pay separately to get to Amanohasidate.
@@KenshoQuest Hi, thank you for your response. I looked at the map, I can go to the amonohashidate with JR limited express from kyoto station, the name is JR hashidate. Is JR Hashidate included in the hokuriku arch pass ?
Sorry the links aren't working for you. Is it specifically the link to the Hokuriku Arch Pass? This might work instead: affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=769476&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F2781-7-day-jr-hokuriku-arch-pass-jr-pass%2F
Hi Kensho! Can you please clarify - I'm a bit confused about purchasing the pass through Klook vs directly via the JR website. If I buy directly from the JR website, does the pass have to be activated within 30 days of purchase? I thought I read somewhere that if you purchase the pass on their site you can do the online reservation, is that right? We are traveling to Japan during the last week of May, but we wanted to avail of the current price (before the increase on 3/16), does this mean our option would be to purchase it through Klook since we won't be in Japan until May? If I do that, does that preclude us from making online reservations? Thanks so much!
Yes, you can purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass directly from JR within 30 days of the activation date (first day of use). That would allow you to book seats online once you have purchased. To take advantage of the current price you can preorder from Klook within 90 days of redeeming the Exchange Order in Japan. When you redeem your pass you can set the activation date for within the next 30 days, and also make seat reservations. 🌸 Heidi
Hello, how can I find out which train lines specifically are covered in this Arch Pass in TOKYO ? All I've gathered so far is that Yamanote Line is covered, thank you
Hi. This website has a map of the covered routes. Tokyo is magnified on the map. www.jreast.co.jp/e/hokurikuarch/terms.html You can also install "Japan Travel" by Navitime on a smart phone, go to "route" and set the tourist pass filter to Hokuriku Arch Pass. Then you can enter departure and destination and see if something comes up that is covered by the pass.
Hi we will be in Japan this April going to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka for about 3 weeks. Do you think the Arch pass is worth it? Is it only slow travel time going back to Tokyo? Would really appreciate any other passes that you recommend
Hi. Yes, definitely! The Hokuriku Arch Pass is perfect for the first part of your trip. You could use it to go Tokyo to Kanazawa to Kyoto to Osaka (all within 7 days). We recommend pre-ordering it before March 16, 2024 as the price is going to increase in March. If you purchase it through our Klook affiliate link, you can redeem it in Japan within 90 days of purchase: geni.us/hokurikuarchpass By April, the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen will be open, so it will be a bit faster to complete the whole arch. For the rest of your trip, if you are going straight from Osaka to Fukuoka, you could buy a single-journey Shinkansen ticket. Here's our video on how to do that: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html But, if you want to stop off along the way at places such as Kobe, Okayama, or Hiroshima, then you may want the Sanyo San'in Area Pass. Here's our affiliate link for that one: geni.us/sanyosaninpass We'll be talking about these regional passes in our next video! 🌸 Heidi
Hi Heidi. Thank you so much for the information. I really appreciate it. There’s a whole lot of information out there and it can get quite overwhelming. Your videos are very informative. Subscribed
Also want to check if there’s anyway that I can reserve seats in advance for those legs. Heard the lines is very long and the seats gets booked out quickly
@@user-hg7fu4hg6c Hi. If you want to reserve seats online in advance, then it’s probably best to purchase your pass directly from JR. You can do this up to 30 days before you start using your pass. Here’s the website: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
It's currently about 5-6 hours to make the arch from Tokyo to Kanazawa to Kyoto. Once the Hokuriku Shinkansen is extended to Tsuruga Station in March 2024, it will be about an hour quicker. That's compared to about 2 hours to go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto on the Tokaido Shinkansen, which is not covered by this pass. 🌺 Heidi
Hi, we are planning a trip to Japan in March 2024, about 12-13 days. We plan to cover the golden route, tokyo, kyoto and Osaka. Any suggestions on the travel pass? Also, we are open to suggestions. This would be our honeymoon and we don't want to tire ourselves out.
If you are interested in stopping at least in Kanazawa, this Hokuriku Arch Pass is certainly an option. Otherwise, you can pay for individual train tickets between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. It's easy enough to buy separate Shinkansen train tickets: kenshoquest.com/recommends/japan-train-tickets/ At this point, I only recommend purchasing the Whole Japan Rail Pass if you are going to move quickly from city to city and go farther than just the Golden Route.
That was "stopping in Kanazawa" not "shopping".😉If you like slow paced exploration without the crowds, you might really enjoy the Hokuriku region. @@mrittikabanerjee7386
Hi we are planning a trip in April going to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka for nearly 3 weeks. Do you think the Arch pass is worth it? Is it only slow travel time if you travel back to Tokyo? I would appreciate any other passes that you can recommend 😊
Hi, we are traveling to Japan in May, arriving at Narita. We plan to purchase the Hokuriko Arch pass, and planning to travel from Narita to Osaka, upon arrival. Do you think this is doable with an arrival time of 3pm in Narita? Thank you.
Hi, it is possible but you will be traveling late. Also, the Kagayaki shinkansen is reserved only, but there are a couple of others that are not. Where is your first destination?
Is it possible to activate it in Tokyo? Im staying a few nights in Tokyo before I travel to kanazawa then to kyoto then to osaka, if i activate it to early my pass would expire while i am in kyoto.
Hi, what you can do is set your activation date in Tokyo. So you don't actually need to activate it until your start date, this way it will last for your whole 7 days to Osaka. Visit the JR ticketing office and when you pick up your tickets inform them of your start date. They will ask you this anyway :)
Yes, it includes JR trains in Tokyo and the Tokyo Monorail. Here's the info about the coverage area: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/@@Fargo_024
Yes, the trains running on the Hokuriku Arch are JR trains, so they are also included in the Whole Japan Rail Pass. Here's our Guide to the JR Pass: ruclips.net/video/fUn5MCYFjNU/видео.html
Planning to travel this route for 5 days in December. Narita airport > Kyoto > Kanazawa > Tokyo > Narita airport. Is this pass worth it for this itinerary? Will I still need to purchase a Suica card? Do you recommend I make reservations for the train rides?
Hi. You would need to purchase separate tickets to get to Kyoto. You could buy an individual Shinkansen ticket to get from Tokyo to Kyoto: kenshoquest.com/recommends/japan-train-tickets/ *affiliate link. Then it would be worth it to activate a Hokuriku Arch Pass and use it for: Kyoto - Kanazawa - Tokyo - Narita Airport. We still like to have a SUICA card for any local trains or buses that are not covered by the pass. 🌺 Heidi
The Tokaido Shinkansen that goes directly from Tokyo to Kyoto is NOT included in the Hokuriku Arch Pass. If you want, you could follow the arch both ways. Just know that it currently takes about 5-6 hours to complete the arch. So you could go: Narita > Tokyo > Kanazawa > Kyoto > Kanazawa > Tokyo > Narita. We show the route in the video. @@audreyc52
HI, yes, shinkansens start around 6am so you should be all set during these travel times as they run past 10pm. However, please check the schedules and check if your train is reserved only. For instance the Kagayaki is a reserved only train. Good luck!
Hello good day sir i would like to ask I will be availing this pass and i would ask if can i book a reservation for my trip in advance Example: May 2 tokyo to kanazawa Then Kanazawa to kyoto. And vice versa back to tokyo? Thanks will wait for your feedback
Hi, yes you can and it is recommended since some of the trains may be reserved only trains. You can reserved at the ticketing office or by using the ticketing machine and possibly online
@@kevinseankho1 If you purchase through Klook, you will need to wait until you pick up your actual pass in Japan to reserve seats. You can board the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station. Here is our Guide to the Hokuriku Arch Pass, which explains more: ruclips.net/video/Z_BlVF-h_xk/видео.htmlsi=O_5061-rpCLB1F5C
Hi, I am planning for a trip this late october: Haneda > Tokyo Station > Kanazawa + Shirakawago > Kyoto > Osaka > Kansai, and fly back to Tokyo Narita/ Haneda. From what I have read and watch, I think the Hokoriku Pass suits the best. Just wanted to make sure that the pass covers the Haneda > Tokyo Station journey, and if it's possible to exchange the pass in Haneda Airport? Thanks in advance, cheers
Hi, Im just wondering of whether we are allowed to take our lugagges with ur during our journey (expecially riding the shinkansen). Also, does this ticket include certain area (for instance tokyo area that covers shinjuku, shibuya, odaiba,etc)? Please let me know 😊
Hi, if you are asking specifically about using the Hokuriku Arch Pass then you can take your luggage onboard as they do not have restrictions other than max size is 250cm L+W+D. If you are taking other shinkansen lines such as to Kyoto from Tokyo ( Tokaido Shinkansen ) then there will be restrictions. As for riding local trains in Tokyo, the pass will cover the main trains such as the Yamanote line which loops around the city and stops at both Shinjuku and Shibuya. But it will not cover going to Odaiba. I hope this helps :)
If i landed in narita airport. I planned to go to osaka, kyoto, shirakawago, and then back to narita airport..is Jr hokuriku is the best option for us? Or could you recommend any jr or may be a plane for efficiently?
The Hokuriko Arch Pass is a great option for visiting those cities. Just note, that in order to be covered by the pass, you would need to follow the arched route both directions: Tokyo, Kanazawa (side trip to Shirakawa-go), Kyoto and then Kyoto, Kanazawa, Tokyo on return. It currently takes about 5 hours to complete the arch. The Hokuriku Arch Pass does not include the Tokaido Shinkansen, which directly connects Tokyo to Kyoto (and takes about 2 hours). We do not recommend flying from Tokyo to Osaka, as the Kansai airport is located quite far from central Osaka, so it could still take an hour to get into Osaka.
hi, i am planning for a trip to japan from the 7th july 2024. My family and I are planning to cover the golden routes but since JR pass prices are to increase, we are kinda confused on whether to buy tickets seperately from tokyo to kyoto then to osaka or take the hokuriku arch pass. We will be flying in from haneda and leaving japan from osaka. Hope you could give a few tips as this is my first time going there thanks!
Hi, the Hokuriku Arch Pass will certainly work for you especially since you are traveling one direction only. However, unless you plan to spend time in the Hokuriku region, then a one-way shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto would be much cheaper. Then you could also purchase an express train from Kyoto to Osaka. Let us know if you have further questions.
For Japan, I always recommend getting tickets in advance. Are you planning to use the Hokuriku Arch Pass one direction and fly back? The pass can be used both directions, as long as you follow the arched route.
@@KenshoQuest I believe in the video it was mentioned the return from Kyoto to Tokyo was five hours? It may be a better option for me to fly for the return. I am thinking the Arch Pass I can use in Tokyo, maybe my day trip to Fuji lakes, then move to Kyoto , day trip to Osaka but the return is unlikely.
Hi, sorry no, the Hokuriku Arch Pass travels along the western coast of Japan in an arch. If you want to get to Mishima station then you might be interested in an individual Shinkansen ticket. We have a separate video on how purchase from Klook.
Can you recommend places to stay that have access to theam parks as well as historical places. . We are traveling with 5 adults and one child from the UK and what railway passes would you recommend. We are looking at going for 7-14 nights
Hi. You might like visiting the Kansai region. Kyoto for historical places, Osaka for Universal Studios Japan with Super Nintendo World, Himeji for the castle. If you explore just that area, the Kansai WIDE Area Pass is a good option. *affiliate link kenshoquest.com/recommends/jr-kansai-wide-area-pass/ It doesn't include going to Tokyo. If you also want to visit Tokyo you could pay for a separate Shinkansen ticket there. First thing is to decide which cities you would like to visit, then you can see whether a railway pass will serve you well. 🌺 Heidi
Can you make video on air travel (like LLC) in Japan beside trains OR maybe a combination of air and train (cheapest way) for the fastest way to get to your destination? The in-between cities, stops maybe use the train passes but the long-haul do it with the airlines. Time is money, right?
Thanks for the idea! We will be using a combo of airplane and train on our next trip. I much prefer the trains. LLCs in Japan tend to be very strict about the 7kg per person carry-on limit. They even weigh our toddler's tiny backpack. But sometimes it does make more sense to fly.
@@KenshoQuest Ok cool. Maybe just a little more just take the 2 main carriers (JAL and ANA) so no baggage issues PLUS earn points/status with the airlines.
We'll be taking JAL to Japan. They are a little more generous with their cabin baggage allotment of 10kg per person. For flights within Japan it's the whole airport process we don't care for (checking in with weighing bags, complying with liquids rules, going through security, waiting at gate). The flight itself may be short, but the airport procedure takes a couple hours. We will fly Tokyo to Sapporo, and then take the train south afterwards. The train does take much longer, but we will stop along the way to enjoy the sights. @@theinternationalist1357
@@KenshoQuest How do the kids go to school in JP? For us, my son is Japanese so he can just attend 1, 2 or 3 months then leave back to California. We been doing this for 6 yrs already, just back and forth to JP and doing a side trip to SEA (SE Asia).
Yes. The Hokuriku Arch Pass includes some JR lines within Tokyo, as well as the Tokyo Monorail. This website shows what is included. You can scroll down to see the Tokyo area: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
I am planning on a 8 day trip to Japan starting from 18th Oct, I wish to cover Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka mostly but I also want to visit shiragawa go village. I thinking of buying this pass because it coveres the areas I wish to visit except the Mount Fuji area. What are your suggestions? Please help
Hi. I recommend visiting Mt Fuji first, and then you can use the Hakone Free Pass starting from Tokyo. Will you fly out of Osaka? How close would you like to get to Mt Fuji? If you want a quick day trip from Tokyo with views of Fuji, you could visit Hakone. Here's our video explaining the Hakone Free Pass: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html If you would like to get even closer to Fuji, you can visit Kawaguchi. Here's an example of a day tour that visits both Hakone and Kawaguchiko (affiliate link): affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759571&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F95318-hakone-lake-kawaguchiko-day-tour-tokyo-hakone-lake-kawaguchiko%2F
@@KenshoQuest No actually I will be visiting Japan through Tokyo Narita Airport and my departure flight is also from Narita. I don't wish to buy JR Pass cos its pretty expensive. I want to visit the areas that I mentioned earlier. For Mount Fuji, I want to visit Fuji Five Lakes Area.
Ok. I'd still recommend visiting the Kawaguchi Five Lakes area first. Then you could use the Hokuriku Arch Pass (25,500 Yen per adult): Tokyo to Kanazawa. Pay separately for a bus or rental car to Shirakawa-go. Then use the pass Kanazawa to Kyoto. Coming back, you would need to take the same arch route through Kanazawa, which takes about 5 hours to get from Kyoto to Tokyo. Here's a tour bus that goes to Shirakawa-go: affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759630&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F94040-shirakawago-takayama-hida-takayama-bus-tour-kanazawa%2F There is also this bus option that would take you: Tokyo, Fuji, Shirakawa-go, Kyoto. But the price is only for one direction, so you would still need to pay for transportation from Kyoto back to Tokyo. affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759630&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F94401-bus-pass-tokyo-osaka-kyoto%2F @@Ak-qk1fw
Hey guys! I have a question. Do you guys know how I can purchase a halloween horror nights ticket for universal studios Japan? I tried calling directly but no luck.
Hi. I've never attended, but I think most of it is included with an admission ticket to USJ (Studio Pass). There may be additional tickets for certain aspects, once you are inside the park. Info on USJ website: www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/events/halloween-2023/halloween-horror-night-2023 Blog post from TDRExplorer from last year: tdrexplorer.com/universal-studios-japan-halloween-horror-nights-2022/
@@KenshoQuest thank you!! Also, would you guys happen to know a link to check the current price to buy yen at NRT? Or how I can get a somewhat estimate of what it’s going for?
@@lbabe1996 Sorry, I don’t know if there is a way to check that ahead of time. We usually just withdraw cash from the ATM. We hardly ever use a currency exchange counter. ruclips.net/video/J6AziGwySZo/видео.htmlsi=HlpQ4oFDle-Zhufc
Hokuriku a paradise? LOL. I don't think so. And you really have to plan to use local rail and bus, unless you can rent and drive a car or can afford to use taxis. Kanazawa is a nice medium-size city to visit. Much of the rest of Hokuriku is concrete and rice paddies.
Welcome to the Hokuriku Arch Pass, the New Golden Route connecting Tokyo to Kyoto via Kanazawa. We appreciate when you purchase through our affiliate link: geni.us/hokurikuarchpass
Hi! Hiw much time would it take using the arch pass from kyoto to osaka. And from osaka to tokyo then tokyo to haneda airport. Just wondrin how much time will be spent if this is the pass im gonna take. Thank you!
On my first visit to Japan in 2016 we caught the shinkansen to Nagano to spend a few nights in a ryokan at Shibu Onsen and see the snow monkeys. Spectacular! Then we stayed in Kinosaki for a few nights before catching the Thunderbird to Kyoto. This pass would cover this perfectly and be a little cheaper. A great part of Japan to visit, highly recommended.
Sounds like a wonderful trip! We really like this area of Japan and will probably use the Hokuriku Arch Pass again, so we can stop at slightly different places.
Thank you so much! Me and my friend want to go to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara but not interested in Kanazawa so we opted to buy shinkansen tickets and Kansai Area Pass. Your videos still helped a lot! Keep the content coming!
I’ve been to Japan in 2022 and 2023…traveled all the way north to Sapporo and west to Fukkoka via JR Rail Pass (before the Oct 23 price hike). I’m looking to return for a third time in four years (next winter 25) using the Hokuriku Arch Pass to see Niigata, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and hopefully one of the famous onsens nearby.
Just ordered mine because I wanted to go from Osaka to Itoigawa and back..was perfect for me
Why are you going to Itoigawa for?
@@magnustan841check out the Jade coast
This was so helpful!! Oh my gosh thank you guys. I've been researching so much on this pass to see if it was worth it for doing a round trip feom tokyo to kyoto with small day trips and this helped me so much. Thank you guys.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks so much for the great information! My husband and I love your videos. We are heading to Japan next week and hoping to sneak in a day trip to Kurobe Gorge when in Kanazawa. Looking forward to your video. Thanks!
Have a wonderful time in Japan! We'll try to work on the Kurobe Gorge video soon.
Thanks so much for this video. We will be going to Japan in April and decided to rent a car and drive from Tokyo to Kyoto via the new golden route and back taking the original golden route. If you have a link to a video of yours with a great itinerary by car with stops off the beaten track to really experience Japan, that would be great! Thanks, Tim
Hi, we are still working on an itinerary for the Hokuriku route but a couple of places that we highly recommend are Matsumoto and Ainokura. There is a lot to explore in these areas where a car makes it easy.
@@KenshoQuest We will look into those two places. Thanks so much!
Can you please share the link?
Such great informations. Thank you very much!
Thanks so much for sharing this!
You're very welcome! Are you considering using the Hokuriku Arch Pass?
Yes! Will you have an updated link for when the additional route to Tsuruga opens? Want to make sure we purchase through your link!
@@eatalllday Thanks. It will still be our same link.
Great informative video and suggestions.
Glad it was helpful! Are you considering using the Hokuriku Arch Pass?
I'd love to see a sample itinerary for the Hokuriku Arch Pass. I will be traveling to Japan in March 2025 and will be there for 13 days. Thanks! Love your videos!
It’s on my list of videos to make! 🌸 Heidi
Can you explain more about new Hokuriku? How will it change for Arch Pass between Osaka Tokyo?
The Hokuriku Shinkansen line will be extended past Kanazawa to Tsuruga Station, which will make getting from Tokyo to Tsuruga Station faster. It will probably save at least half an hour.
Looking forward to try this route on my next trip!
Exciting! There is so much to see and explore. We already want to do the arch again, so we can visit different places than we did last time.
One side trip from Nagano are the spa resorts in the surrounding mountains. You may have suggestions on nice places to stay. I stayed at Kanaguya near Yudanaka Station. The hotel had wooden beams, a fireplace, and maze like halls leading to small onsen baths.
Sounds lovely!
May I know the exact name of your stay?)
@@PratikLawate Kanaguya Ryokan at the town of Shibu Onsen
Thank you for this video. Your videos are always so helpful. In scanning the Arch Pass, there is just one class of tickets? No Green Car option like other Shinkansen tickets. I understand there is an additional charge for Reserved and Gran Class Seats. How do I reserve these seats once I have the pass? Thanks again!
Hi. The Hokuriku Arch pass covers Ordinary Reserved Seats and Ordinary Non-Reserved Seats. However, some of the trains only have reserved seating. You can reserve seats using a Reserved Seat Ticketing Machine or by visiting a JR office. If you purchase the pass directly through JR East, you can also reserve seats through their website www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/hokurikuarch.html It might be possible to pay extra to upgrade to Green or Gran Class, but I don't have any experience with doing that. I would ask at a JR ticket office. 🌸 Heidi
Thanks for this great video! Saved! I would love to hear about more of the sites and things to do with families around Kanazawa and Nagano!
More to come!
Hi! First of all let me thank you for this detailed video, it is very clear and actually a life saeviour! My boyfriend and me both want to go yes or yes to Nagano for a couple of days, and was like a jigzaw puzzle with many missing parts until we saw your video ❤
My only question is if It's possible to buy two 7 day tickets in a row (to travel 14 days) or as it goes with passport they will know you already purchaised once and won't allow you a second time? Thanks
Hi. It's normally possible to purchase two of the same pass, as long as the dates don't overlap. However, I'm not sure if purchasing two Hokuriku Arch Passes for 60,000 Yen total per person would be helpful to you. Most passes are beneficial when you are moving onto the next city each day or two. It's also possible to purchase the individual Shinkansen tickets you need, such as Tokyo to Nagano. Here's our separate vide on buying Shinkansen tickets online: ruclips.net/video/GD0Tp7zGSeo/видео.html
You may also find this other video on traveling Japan by train helpful: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.html
🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Thank you again so much for the detailed response.
We are still organizing the trip, and trust me, we will considere SO MUCH your suggestions and advices, since from all the vídeos I've seen on your chanel, are always right about Japan... I really can't understand why your channel doesn't have the reach it deserves 💔
I would love an itinerary using the pass!
thanks !
this was helpfull
You're welcome! Thanks for watching :)
Thank u so much for ur tips. I’ve been crying bc I’m traveling to Japan tomorrow and unable to secure jrpass online and had to find an alternative way to get to universal studios
Hi. If you just need to go directly from Tokyo to Osaka, you could purchase a Shinkansen train ticket from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. Here's our video explaining how to purchase online from Klook: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html You could also buy Shinkansen train tickets once you arrive in Japan. Either at a ticketing office or ticketing machine.
OMG i was able to call the JR East people and realized the website was "down" because it is unavailable during non-business hours in japan. I was just able to buy the JR pass online, and the rep on the phone said it's ok that I have not printed them, as long as i have the reservation number.. i hope it works@@KenshoQuest
Thanks to all your videos we are doing this in late October! Planning on renting a car in Kanazawa. Do we need to reserve it now or are they pretty easy to reserve a few days before?
Hi, you can rent up to several months in advance. I recommend checking the availability ahead of time to check. Toyota rental car service has been very good for us.
It looks like JR Group is raising the price of the Hokuriku Arch Pass by 5000 yen this March. Now while it isn’t a major price increase like the JR Rail Pass was, it’s still significant as most of the regional passes have had price hikes.
Very true. We knew the increase was coming with the Shinkansen extension but it does seem a little high.
Hi! We are going to travel with the Hokuriku pass! So excited. Is your video about the Kurobe Gorge ready? We are still doubting to go or not to go.....🙂
Hi. We're still working on the video. It you are visiting in the winter, the train to Kurobe Gorge will not be operating.
Very informative video! I have just subscribed to your channel today. I am thinking of a 14-Day trip to Japan in May 2024. The places I am thinking of going to include Tokyo, Hakone, Yamanashi, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Takamatsu, Hiroshima and Takayama. Do you think a JR pass would be viable given the increased prices and, if not, what other passes, like this one, should I look into? Thanks in advance.
Hi. For a side trip from Tokyo to Hakone, we recommend the Hakone Free Pass. Here's our video on that: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html For the rest of your trip, you can use the JR Fare Calculator to add up what it would cost for reserved seats and compare that to the JR Pass: kenshoquest.com/recommends/jrpass-fare-calculator/ Whether you are going round trip back to Tokyo makes a big difference on whether the JR Pass is worth it. Here's our Beginner's Guide to the JR Pass, where we demonstrate using the fare calculator: ruclips.net/video/fUn5MCYFjNU/видео.html
I'm so grateful for your informative content. I've used many of your amazon links, will buy July luggage, and now have questions about transport before I use your affiliate links to buy public transportation passes. 1st time traveling to Japan and need your help please. Which Shinkansen, Regional pass, Hokuriku, JR pass, etc. should our family of 4 get for our 20-day trip. Details: 7.25.24 (day 1) arrive in Osaka ITM, (day 1-3 stay in Osaka). Travel Osaka to Kyoto (days 3-8 stay in Kyoto) with a day trip to Nara. Kyoto to Takayama (stay in Takayama days 9-10) with a day trip Nikko. Go Takayama to Kanazawa (stay in Kanazawa day 11-13). Kanazawa to Tokyo (stay in Tokyo days 14-20) with day trip to Hakone and other areas. Fly out of Tokyo Narita Airport. Thank you so very much for your help, I'm lost when it comes to public transportation, but feel encouraged by your videos that I'll be able to manage it with your help.
Hi. For the first portion of your trip, you could use an IC card to pay for local transportation. When you arrive in Osaka you can each get an ICOCA card. It's a rechargeable card that you can use to pay for local trains and buses. That should be sufficient for the Osaka, Kyoto, Nara portion of your trip.
For going from Kyoto to Takayama, you may wan to consider the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, which is a 5 day pass (19,800 Yen). Here is the info: touristpass.jp/en/takayama_hokuriku/ Where do you want to visit as a side trip from Takayama? Nikko is very far from there. Perhaps Shirakawago?
After using the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass you would still need to buy a ticket for the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa to Tokyo (which is around 14,380 Yen for an ordinary reserved seat).
Another option would be to get the Hokuriku Arch Pass which can take you from Kyoto to Toyama. You would need to pay separately to get from Toyama to Takayama. The Hokuriku Arch Pass would also cover Kanazawa to Tokyo. It's a 7-day pass and costs 30,000 Yen per adult. This is probably the option I would choose, but please look at the map: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/hokuriku-arch-pass/ It only covers the specific route on the map, so going other places like Takayama or Shirakawago you would need to be paid for separately from the pass.
Within Tokyo you can again use the ICOCA IC card for local transportation. For a day trip to Hakone I recommend getting the Hakone Free Pass. Here's our video on that: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html
You might also find our other video on traveling Japan by train helpful: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.html
🌸 Heidi
Welcome to Japan!
why do they only allow 7 days for the train pass? its nowhere near long enough to explore all of the places we want to see. i feel like you need at least 2-3 weeks
The Hokuriku Arch Pass is valid for 7 days, allowing time to make the arch from Tokyo to Osaka. You don’t have to use the pass. You could buy individual Shinkansen and limited express train tickets and go at your own pace. Or you could spend a few days in Tokyo, use the pass for 7 days, and then spend as long as you want in Osaka/Kyoto area. 🌸 Heidi
Um I am not too sure if this pass is actually cheaper without doing a round trip.
Tokyo to Kanazawa: ¥14380
Kanazawa to Kyoto: ¥7720
Total = ¥22100
Total < Hokuriku Arch Pass = ¥30000 (still cheaper before the hike)
If you intend to backtrack at all or visit a town that's on a branch (such as Wakuraonsen) then it may payoff.
Thank you for the very useful video! If you only had one or two side quests to do (as I'm pressed for time) what would it be - using the hokuriko arch pass. Thanks :)
Hi. I would definitely stop in Kanazawa and stroll through Kenrokuen park. You might want to take a side trip from Nagano to visit Matsumoto Castle. More on that in this video: ruclips.net/video/noob9UpGTNw/видео.htmlsi=NsszuznNb3_Ri0el Or if you like dinosaurs, the museum in Fukui! 🦕 🦖 And from Fukui you can also visit Eihei-Ji temple.
Hi, I love your videos! We plan to take the Hokuriku Pass and travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, and return with a stop in Kanazawa. Question: How do you book seats for each time you get into the train on different days for different trips? thank you in advance
Hi, there are multiple ways. If the ticketing office is not busy you can book all at once. But it does require you to know the dates, times and where you will be traveling. Otherwise, we also use the ticketing machines if we decide on day of travel. Third option is you can book online through the JR East reservations site, but you still need to pickup your tickets at either the ticketing machine or ticketing office and will require your passport.
Will do. Thank you so very much!
Very useful and informational video. Thanks! I have a question: I've already paid online . Before we pick up the Hokuriku Arch pass in Japan, can we reserve shinkansen seats before our trip?
Hi, Yes, If you purchased the Hokuriku Arch Pass, I believe you can. Use the JR East website here: www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index
Do note, that if you reserve online, you must pick up your tickets the day before 9PM! Otherwise, your reservation will automatically be canceled.
Good luck!
Hello Heidi and George! I am from India and absolutely enjoy watching your very informative videos. I wanted to know if I could start using the Hokuriko Arch Pass from Osaka then go on to Kyoto and Tokyo. Our point of entry would be Osaka and exit is Tokyo. Since our trip is about 10 days our pass will expire by the time we are in Tokyo, to cover transport for the rest of the days we intend to use an IC card in Tokyo.
Also, should we stay the night in Nagano and Kanazawa? Or can we just hop off the train see the city and get back on the train later in the day? Please let me know if this plan is doable or does the pass work from Tokyo onwards only. Thanks you for your time. ❤
Hi @charudatta1718, Thank you for the kind words :) Yes! You can certainly start from Osaka and use it going to Tokyo. You will love it. There are so many hidden gems along this route :). Please get ICOCA IC card in Osaka since they are in short supply in the Tokyo area.
@@KenshoQuest thank you so so much for your prompt reply and suggestion to pick up an ICOCA card in Osaka. Really appreciate it 🤗
Hi Both,Thanks for the video.Could you please confirm if we can use the H pass since we re looking to go Tokyo and then Kyoto - Nara and then Kyoto-Osaka
Hi, yes, the Hokuriku Arch Pass covers these areas. However, if you are only visiting these places then you can opt for the cheaper option of purchasing individual shinkansen tickets.
Great Video thanks for sharing. I will be heading to Japan for 14 days in May. Flying in and out of Tokyo. I really want to travel the Hokuriku Arch, but have to travel back to Tokyo. Is this pass still worth it if i have to get a separate Shinkansen back to Tokyo?
Hi, yes, it can be worth it to use the arch pass. We did a similar route and returned to Tokyo purchasing an individual ticket. Do note, the price of the Hokuriku Arch pass will increase starting 15 March. If you want to lock in the current price, you can if you purchase through a vendor like Klook. ( affiliate link ) geni.us/hokurikuarchpass
Hi, Thanks for your video. Are there some cases where the 7 days national JR rail pass would be better than the Hokuriku Arch Pass? Price, more accessible trains, easier way of use...
Yes, there are some itineraries where the 7-Day Whole Japan Rail Pass is a better option. If you will travel long distances and spend the night in a different city almost every night. For example: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Himeji, Tokyo. Here's our video explaining how to figure out if the JR Pass is worth it for your trip: ruclips.net/video/hsrZpVYH-ls/видео.html
Hello Thank you for this video! So using this pass allow you to travel from tokyo to osaka and you can also use it to go back to tokyo? We are traveling next month and we are only traveling from tokyo to osaka and kyoto.
Hi, yes this pass does include your route. However, if you do not plan to spend anytime in places like Kanazawa then you will save money and time by purchasing individual Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka
How to Buy Shinkansen Train Tickets on Klook, No JR Pass Needed!
ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html
Thank you so much for the information. Do you know that if a travel in october, can I buy the ticket now? Or do I have to wait until is a closer date?
Hi, if you purchase directly from JR then you can only purchase within 30 days of using the pass. However if you purchase from a vendor like Klook then you can purchase 90 days from your journey. So you need to wait a little while before you can purchase for October
Hi, Thank you for this information.. I am going there this october. I just want to ask.. Do you need to buy the pass when im in UK or can I buy it when I am in Japan already?
Hi, you cannot purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass in person in Japan. However, you can purchase it online from the official website while in Japan. But please note, that often times the JR websites do not accept foreign credit cards. So we highly recommend that you purchase before you arrive in Japan.
@@KenshoQuest Thank you so much.. Your videos are so helpful.. I also heard the new tokyo greater pass.. is that now in effect?
Does the Hokuriku Arch Pass cover local trains in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe which are included in the JR group?
Hi, yes it does include some trains, but I do not believe it covers Kobe. The best way to know is download the Japan Travel app by Navitime then filter by Hokuriku Arch Pass.
hi ! could you please give details for the Arch Pass Hokuriku transportation other than the Shinkansen & JR Line in tokyo such as yamanote line ? example, could you take a JR bus or other buses while routing to tourist spots along the way ?? thks a lot mates, cheers
Hi. The Hokuriku Arch Pass does not include any buses. You can see the included train lines on this website: www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/hokurikuarch.html
I’m going use Hokuriku Atchway pass. Would like to add Kurobe gorge to our trip in November. Would you be posting your Kurobe Gorge trip?
Hi, yes, it will be posted before November for sure!
thank you for sharing this! would 7 days enough to cover all the points?
7 days is plenty for stops along the Hokuriku Arch, such as Nagano, Kanazawa, and Fukui. You may want to spend additional days before or after in Tokyo and Osaka.
@@KenshoQuest thank you! part of the 7 days , say if I start on 11th May 00:00, does it end of 17th May at 11:59PM? :)
@@jjann657 yes, that’s correct.
Hi, thank you for your videos on how to travel Japan. It is very helpful especially for first timers. I have a question, can I purchase the Hokoriku arch pass on Haneda airport without reservation? We plan to go to Japan on Monday, its a spontaneous trip so I didn't have time to book the pass thru klook. So there is not enough time to wait for the Exchange order in the mail.
Sorry, but the Hokuriku Arch Pass can no longer be purchased in-person at JR offices in Japan. Your best option is to purchase through the JR West website:
www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
Another great video! Do you recommend booking a rental car in advance in Kanazawa? We will be there for 4 nights and don’t know how many days we will want a rental car.
Thanks for the great video, extremely helpful. I’m trying to see if I could purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass before the price increase March 16. Is the 90 days restriction for entry date or start date usage of the pass? My entry to Japan is June 14 and I plan to use the pass in June 17. Do you think I can purchase the ticket on March 15 would work? Thank you for your help.
Hi, so glad the video is helpful! Great question, the 90 days is the date of activation, not entry into Japan. Please take into consideration that Japan is almost a day ahead. You don't want to make a mistake. Good luck and have a great trip, it's an amazing area to visit :)
Thank you very much for the detailed explanation! Just a quick question regarding pick up. If I want to take advantage of this pass starting from Kyoto to Tokyo, where in Kyoto can I pick up the pass? I couldn’t find pick up location for Kyoto on East JR website. Thanks again!
Hi, In Kyoto, you are in the JR West region so please visit the JR West office at Kyoto Station.
Thank you for the informative video, my wife and I will be going to Japan for our honeymoon in April 2024. I am strongly considering this pass after watching your video. Hopefully the Shinkansen extension will be complete by then.
Do you know if I'll be able to lock in the old rate if purchased, say in early March or late feb? (Traveling first week of April)
Thanks again
Hi. You can purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass from Klook within 90 days of redeeming it in Japan. That means you could purchase it in February and use it in April. 🌺 Heidi
Is there an option that includes getting to Takayama via Nagoya?
You could buy and individual ticket, or look into the Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass.
We're arriving and departing from Kansai airport in April. We'd like to explore mainly Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo. Looking to save money on transport. Would you recommend this pass or is there another pass to consider?
Hi. With sticking to those major cities, I’m not sure you’d save money with a transportation pass. You could pay for transportation in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Tokyo with an IC card. Then purchase single-journey Shinkansen tickets to and from Tokyo. We share tips on this approach in this other video: ruclips.net/video/7ejmnpcFFJg/видео.htmlsi=o2d6JKt9D1emJrg7
There are a variety of passes for the Kansai area, so you could look into those and see if they match your plans. Such as: Kansai Thru Pass, JR Kansai Area Pass, JR Kansai Wide Pass. 🌸 Heidi
Great information, though i have a doubt, so i can use this pass roundtrip from tokyo - osaka-tokyo? Im visiting tokyo 5days tokyo, 3 days Kanazawa and 3 days kobe, using the pass until i go to kanazawa
Yes, you can use the pass both directions, as long as you follow the arched route.
@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the information 👏
Thank you for the video, want to ask
Is hokoriku arch pass cover this route?
- KIX to Kyoto
- Osaka to Okayama
- Kyoto to Kanazawa
- Kanazawa to Tokyo
- Tokyo to Narita
Hi, the Hokuriku Arch Pass will cover most of your route, with the exception of Okayama.
Thank you! First visit in March: If I wish to go from Tokyo to Kyoto and spend 4 days in each, what is my best option for Bullet Train? Thank you.
Hi. To go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto you can buy a single journey bullet train ticket. Here's our video explaining how to get to Kyoto from Tokyo without a JR Pass: ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html
I was really hoping to use this to go Kyoto to Tokyo in October 2024 but that still seems to be a long trip 😅
Hi, yes, it is long since it requires both the Thunderbird Express as well as the Hokuriku Shinkansen but it is a beautiful trip :) Probably only worth it if you have the time.
But why does the return trip not require the same? Same distance from Kyoto to Tokyo as Tokyo to Kyoto?
The Hokuriku Arch Pass requires following the arched path both directions. So both Tokyo - Kanazawa - Kyoto and Kyoto -Kanazawa - Tokyo take about 5 hours. That's compared to not using this pass and going directly Kyoto to Tokyo, which is about 2.5 hours on the Tokaido Shinkansen. @@kerri-annkumar5752
Planning to come to Japan for the 2025 expo. Does this route also cover Mt Fuji?
HI, no it doesn't. there really isn't any pass that will cover Mt Fuji, you might be interested in the Fujikyu options, we have a video on that: ruclips.net/video/4828J9OtNiY/видео.html&lc=UgyjtQQ8Ry5ShTDrJfB4AaABAg
@@KenshoQuest thank you for the response. What advice would you give me a first time traveler to Japan… on the type of pass I should get during the four days I am in Osaka for the Expo?
@@thelmzgoronga977 I’d just get an ICOCA IC card for traveling around Osaka.
Hello!
Thank you very much for this video!
We decided to choose this pass instead of the JR Pass. Which city you absolutely recommend to make a stop before Kyoto? We will have 1 or 2 night to spend before to go to Kyoto. Thank you in advance for your answer.
Hi. We recommend stopping in Kanazawa. We highly recommend a walk through Kenrokuen Park and the castle grounds. There are also many museums and ninja related attractions. 🌺 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Thank you for your quick reply :)
Thank you so much for this video. We are visiting Japan end of November and are planning to do Tokyo - Osaka - Kyoto and return home from Tokyo. Since the Hokuriku Arch Pass is only valid for 7 days, is it possible to renew the pass after 7 days? Do you have any tips on how to make it work for a 12 to 13 days trip? We would be spending roughly 4 days in each destination. Thanks again!
Hi. First of all, I only recommend getting the Hokuriku Arch Pass if you plan to stop somewhere along the arched route, such as Kanazawa. If so, you could use the arch pass one direction: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka. And then separately buy a Shinkansen train ticket directly back to Tokyo on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. If you only want to see the three major cities and aren't interested in sightseeing along the arched route, you can simply buy Shinkansen train tickets to go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto on the fastest route. Here's our video explaining how to get from Tokyo to Kyoto: ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html And our other video showing how to buy Shinkansen train tickets online: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html Please let us know if you have any other questions! 🌺 Heidi
Thank you so much for your videos. I'm planning a trip in 8/2024. Can I buy the pass to use in August? How many days in advance do you reserve your spots on the train. Is it better than driving a rental car? I'm thinking of going from Osaka, and fly home from Tokyo. 10 days trip
Hi. It’s still too early to buy the Hokuriku Arch Pass. You can pre-order it from Klook within 90 days of redeeming it in Japan. Train seats can be reserved up to 30 days in advance. This is a great option for a one-way trip from Osaka to Tokyo. 🌸 Heidi
Hi thank for the sharing, with this pass can I book the ticket direct from tokyo - kanazawa ? or need to go through many many small stop?
Yes, with the Hokuriku Arch Pass you can reserve a seat from Tokyo all the way to Kanazawa. The train will stop along the way, but just stay on the train. 🌺 Heidi
Hi Heidi and George, thanks so much for your helpful videos. (Looking at Japan Travel by Navitime and online info) Fukui dinosaur museum seems to quite a long trip, either as a daytrip from Kyoto or (preferably) when travelling Kyoto-Kanazawa (same day). Do you think this will be easier / quicker once the Hokuriku Shinkansen extends? I am currently debating dropping the dinosaur musuem off our itinerary because it would mean so many changes and a long day Kyoto-Fukui-Kanazawa... When the Shinkansen extends, do you know if the Tunderbird will still also run Kyoto/Kanazawa or will it only go as far as Tsuruga? Thank you!
Hi, once the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension opens to Tsuruga station it should cut travel to Fukui station by about 1/2 hour. It will also significantly shorten the time from Fukui Station to Kanazawa, making that final trip of your day about 20 minutes compared to about 45 minutes now. So while your time between destinations will be quicker, once you arrive in Fukui, it's still going to take at least one hour to get to the dinosaur museum.
We do not know if the Thunderbird will continue to run from Kyoto to Kanazawa but we hope so as it will be a nice alternative.
Hello! I'm planning on heading to Japan last week of May going into the first week of June next year and was wondering if you would recommend doing the Hokuriku Arch Pass or do you think it will be raining? Thanks!
Yes and yes. We recommend doing the Hokuriku Arch Pass. But you probably will get some rainy days. It’s still nice even if it rains. And you could visit museums for indoor time.
Thanks for veru helpful videos👍👍🙏🏻
I plan to go to japan on 3-12 April, landed at Osaka, plan to visit kyoto, matsumoto, hakuba, including the snow corridor (if possible) and fly back from tokyo.
Can you share the best itinerary for the trip?
Should we stay the might in matsumoto?
This Hokoriku pass seem very interesting for my trip.
And last question always about luggages, is there any way to send my luggages from kyoto to final hotel in tokyo? Or what you suggest for me and my family? Approx. 3 big luggage and 2 cabin luggage, 5 adults.
Again thanks again and looking forward to your valuable experiences. Regards, Herby
Hi Herby, it sounds like you have a pretty good plan and yes the Hokuriku Arch Pass would work perfect for your trip. Of note, on this route you are not required to make special seat reservations for oversized luggage as long as it is not over a combined L+W+D 200cm. Otherwise, if you want to ship, which we do recommend you can have it shipped directly from your hotel in Kyoto to Toyko. Your hotel will most likely be able to assist you with this. We have a separate video on this: ruclips.net/video/TRHupDS-kAk/видео.html
Also, yes, we highly recommend spending the night in Matsumoto: ruclips.net/video/noob9UpGTNw/видео.html
Why not prefer using plane? When only going to Osaka-tokyo, it is almost 4x cheaper
The purpose of the Hokuriku Arch Pass is to explore the Hokuriku area of Japan. We don’t fly between Tokyo and Osaka, as the Kansai airport is outside of Osaka. Going directly to Shin-Osaka Station is much more convenient. Plus we don’t like going through airport security and waiting for an airplane. It ends up taking a long time. Trains are our favorite! 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Ah thats makes sense! Since I need directly Osaka to Tokyo perhaps the plane option more suitable for me. I will exploring Japan in May!
Thanks Heidi
Hi! This video is really informative, thanks! But I do have a question: if in case I will buy this arch pass on klook by last week of feb, and will be using it my april 29th, is there any possibility that we can pass by the new tsuruga station by then? I was hoping we can cut some travel time with that 😅
That sounds like a good plan. Purchase before March 16, 2024 to get the current price. The Shinkansen extension should open on March 16, so you'll be able to take advantage of it. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest thanks for the response! I highly appreciate it :)
Thank you. I will be visiting Japan for 2 weeks. Is it possible to buy t2 passes and activate them on different dates?
Yes, it is possible to buy two passes, as long as the dates don’t overlap. Another option is to buy one pass and then separate Shinkansen train tickets. Here’s our video on how to buy Shinkansen tickets:
ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.htmlsi=HhLI8rcKIWtFN6N-
Hi, if i want go to amanohashidate, can i use the hokuriku arch pass ?
Hi, I just looked at the map and I don't think it goes quite that far. I can see it goes as far as Kameoka but from there you might need to pay separately to get to Amanohasidate.
@@KenshoQuest Hi, thank you for your response. I looked at the map, I can go to the amonohashidate with JR limited express from kyoto station, the name is JR hashidate. Is JR Hashidate included in the hokuriku arch pass ?
Great video. Sadly the links in the description doesn't work
Sorry the links aren't working for you. Is it specifically the link to the Hokuriku Arch Pass? This might work instead: affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=769476&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F2781-7-day-jr-hokuriku-arch-pass-jr-pass%2F
Hi Kensho! Can you please clarify - I'm a bit confused about purchasing the pass through Klook vs directly via the JR website. If I buy directly from the JR website, does the pass have to be activated within 30 days of purchase? I thought I read somewhere that if you purchase the pass on their site you can do the online reservation, is that right? We are traveling to Japan during the last week of May, but we wanted to avail of the current price (before the increase on 3/16), does this mean our option would be to purchase it through Klook since we won't be in Japan until May? If I do that, does that preclude us from making online reservations? Thanks so much!
Yes, you can purchase the Hokuriku Arch Pass directly from JR within 30 days of the activation date (first day of use). That would allow you to book seats online once you have purchased.
To take advantage of the current price you can preorder from Klook within 90 days of redeeming the Exchange Order in Japan. When you redeem your pass you can set the activation date for within the next 30 days, and also make seat reservations. 🌸 Heidi
Thanks so much Heidi!!
Hello, how can I find out which train lines specifically are covered in this Arch Pass in TOKYO ? All I've gathered so far is that Yamanote Line is covered, thank you
Hi. This website has a map of the covered routes. Tokyo is magnified on the map. www.jreast.co.jp/e/hokurikuarch/terms.html You can also install "Japan Travel" by Navitime on a smart phone, go to "route" and set the tourist pass filter to Hokuriku Arch Pass. Then you can enter departure and destination and see if something comes up that is covered by the pass.
Hi we will be in Japan this April going to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka for about 3 weeks. Do you think the Arch pass is worth it? Is it only slow travel time going back to Tokyo? Would really appreciate any other passes that you recommend
Hi. Yes, definitely! The Hokuriku Arch Pass is perfect for the first part of your trip. You could use it to go Tokyo to Kanazawa to Kyoto to Osaka (all within 7 days). We recommend pre-ordering it before March 16, 2024 as the price is going to increase in March. If you purchase it through our Klook affiliate link, you can redeem it in Japan within 90 days of purchase: geni.us/hokurikuarchpass By April, the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen will be open, so it will be a bit faster to complete the whole arch.
For the rest of your trip, if you are going straight from Osaka to Fukuoka, you could buy a single-journey Shinkansen ticket. Here's our video on how to do that: ruclips.net/video/zwMKE3pmBP4/видео.html
But, if you want to stop off along the way at places such as Kobe, Okayama, or Hiroshima, then you may want the Sanyo San'in Area Pass. Here's our affiliate link for that one: geni.us/sanyosaninpass
We'll be talking about these regional passes in our next video! 🌸 Heidi
Hi Heidi. Thank you so much for the information. I really appreciate it. There’s a whole lot of information out there and it can get quite overwhelming. Your videos are very informative. Subscribed
Also want to check if there’s anyway that I can reserve seats in advance for those legs. Heard the lines is very long and the seats gets booked out quickly
@@user-hg7fu4hg6c Hi. If you want to reserve seats online in advance, then it’s probably best to purchase your pass directly from JR. You can do this up to 30 days before you start using your pass. Here’s the website: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
Thanks so much !
What’s the travel time from Tokyo to Osaka and Kyoto using this?
It's currently about 5-6 hours to make the arch from Tokyo to Kanazawa to Kyoto. Once the Hokuriku Shinkansen is extended to Tsuruga Station in March 2024, it will be about an hour quicker. That's compared to about 2 hours to go directly from Tokyo to Kyoto on the Tokaido Shinkansen, which is not covered by this pass. 🌺 Heidi
Hi, we are planning a trip to Japan in March 2024, about 12-13 days. We plan to cover the golden route, tokyo, kyoto and Osaka.
Any suggestions on the travel pass? Also, we are open to suggestions. This would be our honeymoon and we don't want to tire ourselves out.
If you are interested in stopping at least in Kanazawa, this Hokuriku Arch Pass is certainly an option. Otherwise, you can pay for individual train tickets between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. It's easy enough to buy separate Shinkansen train tickets: kenshoquest.com/recommends/japan-train-tickets/ At this point, I only recommend purchasing the Whole Japan Rail Pass if you are going to move quickly from city to city and go farther than just the Golden Route.
@@KenshoQuest thankyou so much!
We are not shoppers really, we prefer walking and exploring the culture of a place + eat local
That was "stopping in Kanazawa" not "shopping".😉If you like slow paced exploration without the crowds, you might really enjoy the Hokuriku region. @@mrittikabanerjee7386
@@KenshoQuest oh my bad! Thankyou so much
Hi we are planning a trip in April going to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka for nearly 3 weeks. Do you think the Arch pass is worth it? Is it only slow travel time if you travel back to Tokyo? I would appreciate any other passes that you can recommend 😊
Hi, we are traveling to Japan in May, arriving at Narita. We plan to purchase the Hokuriko Arch pass, and planning to travel from Narita to Osaka, upon arrival. Do you think this is doable with an arrival time of 3pm in Narita? Thank you.
Hi, it is possible but you will be traveling late. Also, the Kagayaki shinkansen is reserved only, but there are a couple of others that are not. Where is your first destination?
Is it possible to activate it in Tokyo?
Im staying a few nights in Tokyo before I travel to kanazawa then to kyoto then to osaka, if i activate it to early my pass would expire while i am in kyoto.
Hi, what you can do is set your activation date in Tokyo. So you don't actually need to activate it until your start date, this way it will last for your whole 7 days to Osaka. Visit the JR ticketing office and when you pick up your tickets inform them of your start date. They will ask you this anyway :)
@@KenshoQuest does this pass offer unlimited rides in the Tokyo district as well? If so this is awesome!
Yes, it includes JR trains in Tokyo and the Tokyo Monorail. Here's the info about the coverage area: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/@@Fargo_024
This rute are incluide in the normal JR PASS whit 7 days?
Yes, the trains running on the Hokuriku Arch are JR trains, so they are also included in the Whole Japan Rail Pass. Here's our Guide to the JR Pass: ruclips.net/video/fUn5MCYFjNU/видео.html
@@KenshoQuest thanks friends :D
Planning to travel this route for 5 days in December. Narita airport > Kyoto > Kanazawa > Tokyo > Narita airport. Is this pass worth it for this itinerary? Will I still need to purchase a Suica card? Do you recommend I make reservations for the train rides?
Hi. You would need to purchase separate tickets to get to Kyoto. You could buy an individual Shinkansen ticket to get from Tokyo to Kyoto: kenshoquest.com/recommends/japan-train-tickets/ *affiliate link. Then it would be worth it to activate a Hokuriku Arch Pass and use it for: Kyoto - Kanazawa - Tokyo - Narita Airport. We still like to have a SUICA card for any local trains or buses that are not covered by the pass. 🌺 Heidi
I don’t understand. Isn’t the Narita > Tokyo > Kyoto journey covered by the Hokuriku Arch Pass?
The Tokaido Shinkansen that goes directly from Tokyo to Kyoto is NOT included in the Hokuriku Arch Pass. If you want, you could follow the arch both ways. Just know that it currently takes about 5-6 hours to complete the arch. So you could go: Narita > Tokyo > Kanazawa > Kyoto > Kanazawa > Tokyo > Narita. We show the route in the video. @@audreyc52
Hello! Is it convenient to travel anytime between 6am to 10pm using this pass? Thanks.
HI, yes, shinkansens start around 6am so you should be all set during these travel times as they run past 10pm. However, please check the schedules and check if your train is reserved only. For instance the Kagayaki is a reserved only train. Good luck!
Hello good day sir i would like to ask
I will be availing this pass and i would ask if can i book a reservation for my trip in advance
Example:
May 2
tokyo to kanazawa
Then Kanazawa to kyoto.
And vice versa back to tokyo?
Thanks will wait for your feedback
May i ask also sir what station can i ride the hokuriko shinkansen? Thanks
Hi, yes you can and it is recommended since some of the trains may be reserved only trains. You can reserved at the ticketing office or by using the ticketing machine and possibly online
@@KenshoQuestthank you for the reply sir
how can i reserved seats online? i will be buying the klook service
@@kevinseankho1 If you purchase through Klook, you will need to wait until you pick up your actual pass in Japan to reserve seats. You can board the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station. Here is our Guide to the Hokuriku Arch Pass, which explains more:
ruclips.net/video/Z_BlVF-h_xk/видео.htmlsi=O_5061-rpCLB1F5C
Hi, I am planning for a trip this late october: Haneda > Tokyo Station > Kanazawa + Shirakawago > Kyoto > Osaka > Kansai, and fly back to Tokyo Narita/ Haneda. From what I have read and watch, I think the Hokoriku Pass suits the best. Just wanted to make sure that the pass covers the Haneda > Tokyo Station journey, and if it's possible to exchange the pass in Haneda Airport? Thanks in advance, cheers
Hello! Does this hokuriku pass includes the joetsu shinkansen from Tokyo going to Niigata?
Hi, sorry but it does not. You might be interested in the JR East Pass which includes getting to Niigata.
Hi, Im just wondering of whether we are allowed to take our lugagges with ur during our journey (expecially riding the shinkansen). Also, does this ticket include certain area (for instance tokyo area that covers shinjuku, shibuya, odaiba,etc)? Please let me know 😊
Hi, if you are asking specifically about using the Hokuriku Arch Pass then you can take your luggage onboard as they do not have restrictions other than max size is 250cm L+W+D. If you are taking other shinkansen lines such as to Kyoto from Tokyo ( Tokaido Shinkansen ) then there will be restrictions. As for riding local trains in Tokyo, the pass will cover the main trains such as the Yamanote line which loops around the city and stops at both Shinjuku and Shibuya. But it will not cover going to Odaiba. I hope this helps :)
hello can i have sample itinerary covered by the hokoriku arch pass. and budget. thank you.
Hi, yes, we are working on it :)
If i landed in narita airport. I planned to go to osaka, kyoto, shirakawago, and then back to narita airport..is Jr hokuriku is the best option for us? Or could you recommend any jr or may be a plane for efficiently?
The Hokuriko Arch Pass is a great option for visiting those cities. Just note, that in order to be covered by the pass, you would need to follow the arched route both directions: Tokyo, Kanazawa (side trip to Shirakawa-go), Kyoto and then Kyoto, Kanazawa, Tokyo on return. It currently takes about 5 hours to complete the arch.
The Hokuriku Arch Pass does not include the Tokaido Shinkansen, which directly connects Tokyo to Kyoto (and takes about 2 hours).
We do not recommend flying from Tokyo to Osaka, as the Kansai airport is located quite far from central Osaka, so it could still take an hour to get into Osaka.
hi, i am planning for a trip to japan from the 7th july 2024. My family and I are planning to cover the golden routes but since JR pass prices are to increase, we are kinda confused on whether to buy tickets seperately from tokyo to kyoto then to osaka or take the hokuriku arch pass. We will be flying in from haneda and leaving japan from osaka. Hope you could give a few tips as this is my first time going there thanks!
Hi, the Hokuriku Arch Pass will certainly work for you especially since you are traveling one direction only. However, unless you plan to spend time in the Hokuriku region, then a one-way shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto would be much cheaper. Then you could also purchase an express train from Kyoto to Osaka. Let us know if you have further questions.
Do you recommend getting your plane ticket from KIX to Haneda airport in advance ?
For Japan, I always recommend getting tickets in advance. Are you planning to use the Hokuriku Arch Pass one direction and fly back? The pass can be used both directions, as long as you follow the arched route.
@@KenshoQuest I believe in the video it was mentioned the return from Kyoto to Tokyo was five hours? It may be a better option for me to fly for the return. I am thinking the Arch Pass I can use in Tokyo, maybe my day trip to Fuji lakes, then move to Kyoto , day trip to Osaka but the return is unlikely.
May I ask if I can use this JR Hokuriku Arch Pass from Kyoto to Mishima Station (that I want to transit to Mt Fuji)?
Hi, sorry no, the Hokuriku Arch Pass travels along the western coast of Japan in an arch. If you want to get to Mishima station then you might be interested in an individual Shinkansen ticket. We have a separate video on how purchase from Klook.
Thank you so much !
Can you recommend places to stay that have access to theam parks as well as historical places. . We are traveling with 5 adults and one child from the UK and what railway passes would you recommend. We are looking at going for 7-14 nights
Hi. You might like visiting the Kansai region. Kyoto for historical places, Osaka for Universal Studios Japan with Super Nintendo World, Himeji for the castle. If you explore just that area, the Kansai WIDE Area Pass is a good option. *affiliate link kenshoquest.com/recommends/jr-kansai-wide-area-pass/ It doesn't include going to Tokyo. If you also want to visit Tokyo you could pay for a separate Shinkansen ticket there. First thing is to decide which cities you would like to visit, then you can see whether a railway pass will serve you well. 🌺 Heidi
so the hokuriku train that i can use using this pass is only Kagayaki? or can i use other the hokuriku?
Hi, you can also ride the Hakata Shinkansen. Do note that the kagayaki is reserved only.
Can you make video on air travel (like LLC) in Japan beside trains OR maybe a combination of air and train (cheapest way) for the fastest way to get to your destination? The in-between cities, stops maybe use the train passes but the long-haul do it with the airlines. Time is money, right?
Thanks for the idea! We will be using a combo of airplane and train on our next trip. I much prefer the trains. LLCs in Japan tend to be very strict about the 7kg per person carry-on limit. They even weigh our toddler's tiny backpack. But sometimes it does make more sense to fly.
@@KenshoQuest Ok cool. Maybe just a little more just take the 2 main carriers (JAL and ANA) so no baggage issues PLUS earn points/status with the airlines.
@@KenshoQuest Maybe a family of 3 is more feasible over 5 people.
We'll be taking JAL to Japan. They are a little more generous with their cabin baggage allotment of 10kg per person.
For flights within Japan it's the whole airport process we don't care for (checking in with weighing bags, complying with liquids rules, going through security, waiting at gate). The flight itself may be short, but the airport procedure takes a couple hours. We will fly Tokyo to Sapporo, and then take the train south afterwards. The train does take much longer, but we will stop along the way to enjoy the sights. @@theinternationalist1357
@@KenshoQuest How do the kids go to school in JP? For us, my son is Japanese so he can just attend 1, 2 or 3 months then leave back to California. We been doing this for 6 yrs already, just back and forth to JP and doing a side trip to SEA (SE Asia).
Can we also use it to travel around Tokyo metropolitan area?
Yes. The Hokuriku Arch Pass includes some JR lines within Tokyo, as well as the Tokyo Monorail. This website shows what is included. You can scroll down to see the Tokyo area:
www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
I am planning on a 8 day trip to Japan starting from 18th Oct, I wish to cover Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka mostly but I also want to visit shiragawa go village. I thinking of buying this pass because it coveres the areas I wish to visit except the Mount Fuji area. What are your suggestions? Please help
Hi. I recommend visiting Mt Fuji first, and then you can use the Hakone Free Pass starting from Tokyo. Will you fly out of Osaka?
How close would you like to get to Mt Fuji? If you want a quick day trip from Tokyo with views of Fuji, you could visit Hakone. Here's our video explaining the Hakone Free Pass: ruclips.net/video/XpuGU_2zNuQ/видео.html
If you would like to get even closer to Fuji, you can visit Kawaguchi. Here's an example of a day tour that visits both Hakone and Kawaguchiko (affiliate link): affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759571&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F95318-hakone-lake-kawaguchiko-day-tour-tokyo-hakone-lake-kawaguchiko%2F
@@KenshoQuest No actually I will be visiting Japan through Tokyo Narita Airport and my departure flight is also from Narita. I don't wish to buy JR Pass cos its pretty expensive. I want to visit the areas that I mentioned earlier. For Mount Fuji, I want to visit Fuji Five Lakes Area.
Ok. I'd still recommend visiting the Kawaguchi Five Lakes area first.
Then you could use the Hokuriku Arch Pass (25,500 Yen per adult): Tokyo to Kanazawa. Pay separately for a bus or rental car to Shirakawa-go. Then use the pass Kanazawa to Kyoto. Coming back, you would need to take the same arch route through Kanazawa, which takes about 5 hours to get from Kyoto to Tokyo.
Here's a tour bus that goes to Shirakawa-go: affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759630&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F94040-shirakawago-takayama-hida-takayama-bus-tour-kanazawa%2F
There is also this bus option that would take you: Tokyo, Fuji, Shirakawa-go, Kyoto. But the price is only for one direction, so you would still need to pay for transportation from Kyoto back to Tokyo. affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=29280&aff_adid=759630&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F94401-bus-pass-tokyo-osaka-kyoto%2F
@@Ak-qk1fw
@@KenshoQuest okay thank you so so much for your help, i really appreciate it. this helps big time.
also any suggestions on how to book accomodation for cheap in japan?
Hey guys! I have a question.
Do you guys know how I can purchase a halloween horror nights ticket for universal studios Japan? I tried calling directly but no luck.
Hi. I've never attended, but I think most of it is included with an admission ticket to USJ (Studio Pass). There may be additional tickets for certain aspects, once you are inside the park. Info on USJ website: www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/events/halloween-2023/halloween-horror-night-2023
Blog post from TDRExplorer from last year: tdrexplorer.com/universal-studios-japan-halloween-horror-nights-2022/
@@KenshoQuest thank you!!
Also, would you guys happen to know a link to check the current price to buy yen at NRT? Or how I can get a somewhat estimate of what it’s going for?
@@lbabe1996 Sorry, I don’t know if there is a way to check that ahead of time. We usually just withdraw cash from the ATM. We hardly ever use a currency exchange counter.
ruclips.net/video/J6AziGwySZo/видео.htmlsi=HlpQ4oFDle-Zhufc
Hokuriku a paradise? LOL. I don't think so. And you really have to plan to use local rail and bus, unless you can rent and drive a car or can afford to use taxis. Kanazawa is a nice medium-size city to visit. Much of the rest of Hokuriku is concrete and rice paddies.