Since the big JR Pass price rise in 2023, it's only worth it if you take several long Shinkansen trips in a short time.
- Just Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka, flying home from Osaka: single tickets are usually cheaper.
- A Tokyo – Osaka round trip, or adding Hiroshima or Kanazawa within 7 days: worth doing the maths.
- Cheaper regional passes exist (Kansai, Hokkaido, JR East) if you stay in one region.
- Within cities, a Suica or ICOCA card is all you need.
Note: add up your single fares on the JR website or a route app before buying a pass.