Hi everyone, my posts from before seem to have been deleted. Odd! Anyways, I'm hoping yall can send some tips and recommendations for Osaka. As well, I'm looking for some thoughts on the Japan Rail Pass. Many thanks!!

I've heard the Japan rail pass is best if you're going for a week. I was told that if you're staying less then it may be cheaper to pay as you go

If you're using it for multiple trips and destinations outside of Tokyo it's worth it otherwise just pay as you go. The JR and metro aren't expensive the Tokyo - Kyoto - Osaka etc trips are what really make up the costs of buying a pass.

Thank you!
Can the rail pass be used within Osaka? I keep reading that it can't be used inside cities except for the Yamanote line in Tokyo.

http://www.jrpass.com/.../can-the-jr-pass-be-used-freely...
I've only just purchased a rail pass myself for my trip on the 29th but basically most JR lines work aside from certain exclusions. As long as it's a JR line I assume it works. Metro or private lines however don't work for very obvious reasons
JRPASS.COM
Japan Rail Pass Questions: Can the JR Pass be used freely within the subway network in Tokyo,...

Thanks so much! Would love to hear any recommendations you have after your trip! What parts of Japan are you visiting?

Only Kyoto and Nara aside from Tokyo this time! I've visited Tokyo 3x prior. I haven't been to Osaka so I can't thoroughly give suggestions but definitely in Tokyo their shrines are some of my favourite places to be aside from eating (all the time).

Nice! I was in Tokyo in March and loved it! I was only there for a few days so I'm excited to be in Japan for a longer stay this time. I think I'll be spending most of my time in Osaka though this time.

If you're a fan of theme parks universal is in Osaka
it's considerably cheaper than the states universal I believe 7300yen of smth around there.

I'm all about unique and historical architecture and best food spots. Would love to hear any recommendations for such.

I'm going to japan next month for 15 days and does anyone know of a good place in Toronto to buy the JR pass? I'm hearing that the prices are competitive? Sorry to ride your post lol

No worries. That's a great question. I've heard Jtown is a good spot. That's at Woodbine and Steeles.

Thanks a lot Breena

Nisa, you can also buy it online and they will ship it to you through JTB (I just purchased mine!). http://www.jtb.ca/eweb/index3.aspx?id=HE72
JTB.CA
JTB CANADA

Stephani, how long does it take to arrive? Also are you buying any passes additionally for local travel within cities?

^ For mine, it took me about 1 week, maybe 2? Go to jtb.ca or call 1-800-268-5942 (8:30am-5pm) and they can help you - they're REALLY helpful.
i had to pay out of pocket for travel within cities and paid anywhere from $10-20 depending on how many places I went. (You'll know when your JR Pass doesn't work because it won't be accepted.) You can buy one of those cards that you can add money to, to make things easier, but sometimes it isn't worth it if you aren't staying too long...

Breena - it took me the same amount of time ( 1 to 1.5 weeks, this is with express shipping). I also didn't buy passes for local travel within cities. I found this website (http://www.hyperdia.com/) was very helpful with figuring out if the JR pass was applicable for a route (just make sure to de-select Airplane, NOZOMI/MIZUHO/HAYABUSA (SHINKANSEN)
Private Railway). Hope this helps!
HYPERDIA.COM
HyperDia | 乗換案内 路線検索 時刻表 旅費精算 通勤費 ダイヤ作成なら

All of this information is incredibly helpful!! Thank you all

So great! Thank you everyone!!