JR Group Launches Winter Seishun 18 and Hokkaido Shinkansen Tickets
The JR Group is set to launch the Winter Seishun 18 Ticket and the Hokkaido Shinkansen Option Ticket for the upcoming winter season. This initiative aims to provide travelers with flexible travel options across Japan’s expansive rail network.
Seishun 18 Ticket Details
The Seishun 18 Ticket allows unlimited travel on non-reserved ordinary cars of JR lines, bus rapid transit (BRT), and even includes the JR West Miyajima Ferry. This ticket comes in two variants:
- 5-Day Ticket: Priced at 12,050 yen, usable for five consecutive days.
- 3-Day Ticket: Available for 10,000 yen, valid for three consecutive days.
Valid Periods for Tickets
Travelers can use these tickets during specific seasons:
- Spring: March 1 to April 10
- Summer: July 18 to September 8
- Winter: December 11 to January 11, 2027
Sales Information
Sales for these tickets will start on:
- March 1 for Spring
- July 18 for Summer
- November 27 for Winter
Tickets are available at major JR stations, JR travel centers, and through authorized travel agencies across Japan.
Usage Guidelines
While the Seishun 18 Ticket generally does not cover Shinkansen or limited express trains, exceptions allow limited usage on specific routes:
- Between Shintoku and Shinyubari stations on the Sekisho Line
- Between Higashi-Muroran and Muroran stations on the Muroran Line
- Between Aomori and Shin-Aomori stations on the Ou Main Line
- Between Haiki and Sasebo stations on the Sasebo Line
- Between Miyazaki Airport and Miyazaki stations
Pass-Through Travel
Pass-through travel is also permitted on several railways, including:
- Aomori Railway
- Ainokaze Toyama Railway
- IR Ishikawa Railway
- Hapi-Line Fukui
Hokkaido Shinkansen Option Ticket
Travelers can enhance their experience by purchasing the Seishun 18 Ticket Hokkaido Shinkansen Option Ticket. This add-on allows passage on:
- The Hokkaido Shinkansen between Shin-Aomori and Kikonai stations
- The South Hokkaido Railway between Kikonai and Goryokaku stations
The price for this option is 4,650 yen, allowing for an integrated travel experience through the scenic Hokkaido region.
With the new ticket options from the JR Group, winter travel in Japan is more accessible and enjoyable for all. Whether it’s a short trip or an extensive journey, the Seishun 18 Ticket provides a valuable means to explore the nation’s railways.
