Shinkansen Nozomi and Mizuho bullet trains (reserved and non-reserved) will be included in the JR Pass from October 2023. Both types of train operate on the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. To use these trains, JR Pass holders must purchase a special complementary ticket.

The Nozomi and Mizuho—the fastest trains on the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines—are not fully covered by the standard Japan Rail Pass. To ride these specific trains, JR Pass holders must purchase a special supplemental ticket (the "Nozomi Mizuho Ticket") for each journey. This supplement fee can be significant, ranging from approximately 4,000 to 8,000 Yen depending on the distance. However, the JR Pass does provide full, "free" coverage for the Hikari and Sakura trains, which follow the same routes and use the same tracks but make slightly more stops. In 2026, many travelers still prefer the Hikari to avoid the extra cost, as the time difference between Tokyo and Kyoto is only about 20 minutes. If you choose to pay for the Nozomi supplement, you gain more frequent departure options and the convenience of the fastest possible transit across Japan's main island.