Daniel-san,
We think this will be our final travel itinerary for our upcoming October trip to Japan. Before we purchase our Rail Passes, please confirm that we can use the JR Rail pass to catch a Shikansan to and from all these locations. Without a rail pass, would the individual cost to purchase seperate tickets be more or less expensive. From what I have been told, since we are planning to visit multiple cities, it will definitely be cost effective to purchase a rail pass. Today's price is approximately $297 per 7 day JR Rail Pass.
Mahalo!
Mike