I am an expat Brit, been here 15 years - so I don't qualify for a Rail Pass.

When I travel around Japan I usually go by highway bus. The reason? Cost - it is very cheap - often half the price of the train - convenient, usually VERY reliable and extremely safe. Buses are frequent, clean, have toilets and "just work". You can book them over the internet in advance or, often, just turn up on the day.

Most major cities are linked by bus - and a lot of minor ones as well. Take the night bus and you will be provided with blankets.

Strange but true: going by bus is sometimes even faster than going by train to the same destination.

The driver is unlikely to speak English of course - but someone in the booking office will speak a smattering, possibly - enough to make sure you don't get lost. At many places you buy your ticket through a machine - and it may well have a button to display English instructions.

If you DO have problems, simply "look lost". You will probably be pounced on by someone desperate to practice their language skills.

So - if your Rail Pass has run out, why not give it a go?