JR timetables and prices

Where can I see prices as well as details of journeys BEFORE I buy the JR pass? I want to decide whether one week would be most economical for me or whether I would be better off investing in a two week pass. Thank you.

Depends on how much travelling you are going to do. Tokyo to Osaka return is about the same as a 7-day pass. If you are going to Nagano/Kanazawa/Hiroshima then depending on your schedule the 14 day pass might pay off.

http://www.hyperdia.com/en/

Pamela - look in the main Japan Guide website (top left hand of every page will take you there) and go to the transport section.

It's full of useful info, both to answer this question and for general trip planning.

Thank you both for your helpful advice :)