JR East Japan will lower the price of the “Off-Peak Commuter Pass” starting from sales on October 1. Currently set at about 10% cheaper than regular commuter passes, it will be reduced to approximately 15% cheaper after the price cut.
The Off-Peak Commuter Pass was launched in March 2023 to alleviate congestion during weekday morning commute hours, targeting commuter passes (Suica and Mobile Suica). The pass can be used outside of the peak morning hours on weekdays, and is offered at a cheaper price than regular commuter fares. Additionally, starting from March 2024, a 5% JRE POINT will be awarded when purchasing the Off-Peak Commuter Pass.
The aim of the price reduction is to increase the number of users. For example, the six-month commuter pass between Tachikawa Station and Shinjuku Station, which normally costs 70,350 yen, will be priced at 59,200 yen with the Off-Peak Commuter Pass, reflecting a discount of about 15%.
Furthermore, if the Off-Peak Commuter Pass is purchased via Mobile Suica and paid with the View Gold Plus card, a total of about 11% (6,504 points) will be refunded: 5% (2,960 points) from the Off-Peak Commuter Pass purchase points, 2% (1,184 points) accumulated from train use, and 4% (2,360 points) from card benefits.
In addition to the price reduction, new benefits will be offered, and a new promotion featuring actor Hayato Sano will be launched. The benefits include “Counter Coffee Discount Coupons” from NewDays and “500 yen Tickets” from Lumine, among others. Additional perks will be available for working spaces, gyms, and hotels. Some benefits may require the use of apps from each store or service, and others may be subject to a lottery.
The applicable areas for Off-Peak Commuter Fare are within specific train zones in Tokyo, and there will be no changes to the designated areas or peak hours at each station after October 1, aside from the pricing.
Specific train zones in Tokyo