Best way to get around Tokyo: Helpful tips and tricks

Best way to get around Tokyo: Helpful tips and tricks

From travel passes to public transportation, these tips and tricks make getting around Tokyo easy.

Understanding how to get around in Tokyo is essential for navigating the city and making the most of your visit. With one of the most efficient transit systems in the world, public transportation in Tokyo makes exploring landmarks and hidden gems easy. From trains and subways to buses and water buses, there’s a mode of transit for every traveler. Whether using a Tokyo travel pass or an IC card like Suica, this guide will simplify your journey.

Getting around Tokyo: tips and tricks

  • Master the Suica or Pasmo Card: These rechargeable integrated circuit (IC) cards are your best friend for Tokyo’s trains, subways, and buses. Tap your card at the gates for quick and easy travel. They’re also accepted at convenience stores and vending machines.
  • Get familiar with train and subway lines: Tokyo’s rail network is huge, with JR lines (like the Yamanote Line) and private subway systems like Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.
  • Consider the Tokyo subway ticket: Ideal for short trips, this pass offers unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for 24, 48, or 72 hours. It’s perfect for travelers planning to explore central Tokyo intensively, as it can save money compared to single rides with a Suica or Pasmo card.
  • Avoid rush hour: Trains are notoriously packed during the morning (7:00–9:00 AM) and evening (5:00–7:00 PM) commutes. Travel outside these times for a more relaxed experience.
  • Consider a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): If you’re planning day trips or exploring beyond Tokyo, the JR Pass can save you money on unlimited rides across JR-operated trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train).
  • Use buses for local adventures: While trains dominate, buses can take you to quieter neighborhoods or areas not served by rail. Most buses accept IC cards for payment.
  • Taxis for late nights: Taxis are reliable and safe but pricey compared to public transport. They’re great for late-night trips when trains have stopped running or for areas with limited access.
  • Walk or cycle for close distances: Exploring on foot or renting a bicycle is perfect for discovering Tokyo’s hidden gems, like tucked-away shrines or quiet backstreets.

Useful apps

  • Google Maps: A reliable app for real-time directions on Tokyo’s trains, subways, and buses. It provides detailed instructions, including transfer times and platform information.
  • Japan Travel by Navitime: Perfect for navigating Japan’s complex transportation system. It includes route maps, train schedules, and tips for finding free Wi-Fi hotspots.
  • Tokyo Subway Navigation: Designed for tourists, this app offers offline access to subway maps and helps you find the best routes across Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines.
  • Suica or Pasmo App: Manage your IC card balance and top up digitally through these apps.
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Tokyo’s JR trains make navigating the city quick, easy, and seamless.

1. Getting around by train in Tokyo

Tokyo’s train system is world-renowned. It covers everything from local commutes to regional and bullet train travel. Tokyo has 13 subway lines, nine operated by Tokyo Metro and four by the privately owned Toei Subway. A transfer ticket is needed to change between the two networks.

The Japan Railways (JR) lines service both suburban and city areas in Tokyo and beyond. The Yamanote Line is a circular route linking key hubs such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station, and Akihabara. The JR lines, like the Keihin-Tohoku Line or Saikyo Line, extend beyond the city center into suburban areas. JR also operates the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and regional lines for longer trips, such as heading to Kyoto, Osaka, or even nearby day-trip destinations like Nikko or Hakone.

How to plan your journey

Use apps like Japan Travel by Navitime to find the fastest routes, including transfer times and platforms. Check schedules, especially during rush hour, to avoid crowds.

How to buy and use train tickets in Tokyo

Purchase single tickets at station machines or use a Suica or Pasmo card for easier travel across subways, JR lines, and buses. Tap your IC card at the gates and top it up when needed. For Shinkansen trips, book tickets at JR counters or online.

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Efficient and reliable, Tokyo’s buses are perfect for reaching hidden gems.

2. Taking the bus in Tokyo

While Tokyo’s train system is the go-to for most travelers, buses are perfect for reaching spots that trains miss, like smaller neighborhoods or less touristy attractions.

You generally cannot buy bus tickets in advance. Payment is made when boarding the bus, either by tapping your Suica or Pasmo card or by paying the exact fare in cash.

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Glide through Japan’s cities in style—trams offer a cool and scenic way to explore the streets, day or night.

3. Taking the tram in Tokyo

Subways and buses have largely replaced Tokyo’s once extensive tram network. Today, the Toden Arakawa Line, the Tokyo Sakura Tram, is the city’s remaining traditional streetcar line. Spanning 12.2 kilometers with 30 stations, it connects Minowabashi Station in Arakawa Ward to Waseda Station in Shinjuku Ward. This line offers a nostalgic journey through less-touristed neighborhoods.

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See Tokyo from a new perspective aboard a waterbus along the city’s rivers.

4. Getting around Tokyo by water bus

While not as central to Tokyo’s transportation as trains, water buses offer a unique way to explore parts of the city. Operated by companies like Tokyo Waterways and Tokyo Mizube Line, these boats travel along the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay, connecting neighborhoods like Asakusa, Odaiba, and Toyosu.

Water buses are great for combining travel with sightseeing, as they offer views of iconic spots like the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree. Tickets can be purchased at piers or online, with some lines accepting Suica and Pasmo cards.

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Discover Tokyo on two wheels—cycling is a fantastic way to navigate the city’s streets.

5. Getting around Tokyo by bike

While dedicated bike paths are limited, you’ll find cycling lanes in some areas like parks (e.g., Yoyogi Park) and along the Sumida River. In most cases, cyclists share sidewalks with pedestrians or ride on the streets. For rentals, app-based services, like COGI COGI, Docomo Bike Share, and Hello Cycling, offer pickup and drop-off at docking stations across the city. Traditional bike rental shops are found near parks and tourist areas.

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Hail a taxi for a quick and convenient ride through Tokyo’s streets.

6. Using taxis and ride-sharing services in Tokyo

Taxis in Tokyo are clean, safe, and reliable, though they can be pricey compared to public transportation. They’re ideal for late-night travel, short distances, or reaching areas not well-connected by trains or buses. While taxis are convenient, they’re best reserved for specific situations due to their high cost.

Fares are metered with additional charges for late-night rides or highway tolls. Payment can be made by cash, credit card, or IC cards like Suica.

Uber is available, and there is another app, JapanTaxi, although it might not be as tourist-friendly.

FAQs

What’s the best way to get from Tokyo airport to the city center?

Take the Narita Express (N’EX) or Skyliner train from Narita Airport for a fast, comfortable trip. The Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line connects to central Tokyo from Haneda Airport. Taxis are available but expensive, while airport limousine buses are a convenient alternative with direct stops at major hotels.

How accessible is public transportation in Tokyo?

Public transportation in Tokyo is highly accessible, with trains, subways, and buses reaching almost every corner of the city. Most stations have elevators, escalators, and wheelchair-friendly facilities, though smaller stations may lack full accessibility. Apps like Navitime can help plan barrier-free routes. Accessible Japan is an excellent resource for inclusive travel.

Does public transportation run all night in Tokyo?

No, most trains and subways stop around midnight and resume at 5:00 AM. Some buses and taxis operate overnight, and late-night travelers can use apps to book taxis if public transport isn’t available.

Is it safe to use public transportation late at night?

Tokyo’s public transportation is very safe, even late at night. Stations and trains are well-lit and monitored. However, avoid empty cars and stay aware of your surroundings, especially if traveling alone.

Are there any transportation passes in Tokyo?

Tokyo Subway Ticket offers unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for 24, 48, or 72 hours. The Japan Rail Pass is ideal for those traveling beyond Tokyo. Preloaded Suica or Pasmo cards are also convenient for seamless travel.

What’s the best mode of transportation for travelers in Tokyo?

Thanks to their speed and extensive coverage, trains and subways are the best way to get around Tokyo. Walking is great for exploring neighborhoods, while taxis and buses provide backup options.

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