Don't miss the important part of jib-san's post. If you are going back out to NRT at the end of your trip, the Rail Pass will cover that expense as well, making the total saving pencil out. Otherwise, maybe not but remember that with the Pass, you don't have to buy tickets for day trips such as Kyoto-Nara, Kyoto-Osaka or Tokyo-Nikko, etc. In my mind, that pays for itself just in less hassle. Don't worry about the "extra walking," as the manned gates are at the end of the wicket line - about 4 or 5 extra steps. Also, the attendants are very good about pointing out the way to your next platform.