The popular Japan Rail Pass is about to become more expensive

This fall, the price of the Japan Rail Pass, one of the most efficient and cost-effective methods to travel around the country, will rise.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, the cost of a 7-day rail pass, known as the JR Pass, would rise from 29,650 yen ($201.19) when purchased from an authorized store to 50,000 yen ($339.28), a roughly 70% increase. The price hike will take effect on October 1 and will be the first in several years.

A spokesman for the JR Group told The New York Times the increase follows improvements to its service, including extending lines and updating reservation systems.

“As a result, the actual benefits greatly exceed the product price,” the spokesman said, adding, “we have decided to revise the price to an appropriate level.”

A 14-day JR Pass will climb from 47,250 yen ($320.62) to 80,000 yen ($542.85) when the price hike takes effect, while a 21-day pass will jump from 60,450 yen ($410.19) to 100,000 yen ($678.56). Children aged 6 to 11 will pay half the adult fee for a pass.

Green Car passes will also increase in price, from 39,600 yen ($268.71) for a 7-day permit to 70,000 yen ($474.99).

Travelers will also be unable to acquire rail passes from ticket offices in Japan under the new system. The passes will instead only be available for purchase online or through approved shops.

Japan’s rail system is noted for having some of the world’s fastest trains, including bullet trains that travel at speeds of more than 200 mph. The trains crisscross the country, allowing passengers to quickly travel between major cities as well as access smaller lines.

However, while Japan raises the price of unlimited rail passes, some European countries make it easier and cheaper to travel by train. Portugal, for example, has just introduced a new rail pass that allows you to travel up and down its coast for less than €50 ($53.65). In addition, nations such as Spain, France, and Germany offer limitless passes.