How is Transportation in Tokyo?
- berfinozelsel
- May 2
- 12 min read
Updated: May 3
Urban Travel Tips in Japan
When it comes to transportation in this seemingly most complicated city in the world, people are really scared. I remember the moment when we first landed at the airport and tried to find our way after the 8-hour trip, seeing the Japanese alphabet everywhere, I really wanted to go back to Türkiye. But when I tell you that it is not so complicated as to be scary, and how systematic and orderly it is, the city will take shape in your mind and you will say, "Let's plan our trip to Japan."
In fact, the system is so organized that within a few days you may feel like you have been living here for years. The most common means of transportation in the city are the metro and trains.
Tokyo subway and JR train lines extend to almost every corner of the city. The subway network is very developed, you can easily go anywhere. Google Maps works very well here, it will be your hand and foot, it even shows you which exit to get out of the subway.
Tokyo Metro Station Numbering System: Transportation
Metro stations are identified by a system of letters and numbers:
1️⃣ Letter: Represents the metro line.
2️⃣ Number: Indicates the order of the station on that line.
3️⃣ Color in Circle: Shows the color of that line.
💡 Example:
G06 → Ginza Line, station 6
M15 → Marunouchi Line, 15th station
H08 → Hibiya Line, 8th station
Thanks to this system, it is very easy to find stations on the map.
The JR Yamanote Line runs in a circular pattern around central Tokyo, providing easy access to many major destinations including Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ueno, Akihabara and Tokyo Station.
The subway system is operated by different companies, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway , which are owned by different companies and generally work in an integrated manner. However, it is useful to be careful when transferring between stations; some transfers may incur new fees. Therefore, it is very useful to use applications such as Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner when planning your journey. At the entrance of each station, you will see the subway sign and the name of the subway station. Do not forget the station name, number and line color of the subway line you want to take. You will see a combination of a letter (representing the line) and a number (representing the station) in a circular colored frame (representing the color of the line), called the station number.
To facilitate subway use, Tokyo Metro Tourist Information is available at Ueno, Ginza, Shinjuku, Ometesando, Tokyo and Ikeburo Stations.
City trains and subways are usually on time, arriving every few minutes, but can be very busy in the morning and evening hours, especially in larger stations like Shinjuku and Tokyo.
Taxis are quite comfortable but quite expensive compared to other transportation options. That's why they are usually preferred late at night or in emergencies. Also, public transportation in Tokyo largely ends after midnight, so it's useful to think about your return trip in advance when making plans for the night.
You don't need any other application other than Tokyo Subway Map and Google Maps. You may have a hard time the first day, but then you'll be surprised how you get used to it.
🗼 Your Greatest Assistant in Transportation in Tokyo: PASMO Card!
When you first step into a giant metropolis like Tokyo, one of the things that will bother you the most is transportation. Which line should I take? Where can I buy a ticket? How much yen will I pay? At this point, we come across the most practical answer of Japanese technology: Pasmo Card!
🎟 What is this Pasmo?
Pasmo is a magnetic transportation card that is valid on almost all public transportation in Tokyo. In fact, it is a contactless card that you can use not only on the subway and trains, but also on buses, monorails, and even some vending machines and convenience stores (yes, even in conbinis!).
You can think of it as a kind of transportation wallet.
📍 Where to Buy?
You can easily buy a Pasmo card at Haneda or Narita Airport , or at vending machines or ticket booths in major train stations. There is a small deposit (usually 500 yen) when you first get the card, but you can get this fee and any unused balance back when you return the card.
💡 Why Should You Buy Pasmo?
No more trouble buying separate tickets for each journey!
You won't be surprised by extra charges when switching between different lines and companies.
Using a Pasmo is usually a few yen cheaper than a single-ride ticket.
Fast, practical, contactless: just scan and go!
It functions exactly the same as the Suica card. It doesn't matter which one you find.
🧳 Giving Back Pasmo?
You can return the card upon your return and get back the unused money. You can even keep it and use it later if you think you will come back to Japan one day, because the cards have a long expiration date!
If you want to make your transportation easier in a fast and complicated city like Tokyo, Pasmo won't tire you, it will speed you up. Moreover, the cards are super cute with their cute Japanese designs! 😍
In short, you can buy a card like our Akbil, load money into it from the machines with cash or a credit card and use it during your holiday, and even return it when you go to the airport and get your card money. Do you have to buy this? No, there are single-boarding floors and 24-hour cards, you can use them too.I'm leaving a link for you to examine them one by one .
📌 So, when is a single-trip ticket preferred?
If you’re only in Tokyo for a day, don’t have more than a few stops to make, or are only going to take one route, a single ticket might make sense. But let’s face it: you’re going to be transferring in Tokyo. So in 90% of cases , Pasmo makes a lot more sense .
If you're only going to be traveling a short distance (for example, a short trip of just 1-2 stops) or only using certain lines once (for example, only the Skyliner or a special line), a single-ride ticket may work.
But if you're going to be transferring on multiple lines in a complex city like Tokyo (which you often are), dealing with a single ticket is a waste of time and energy .
→ If you are going to stay in Tokyo for even a few days, definitely buy Pasmo (or Suica). It is both more practical and advantageous in the long run. You can return Pasmo upon your return and get your remaining balance back (there may be a small deduction).
🎟️ What is JR Pass?
The JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) is a transportation card available exclusively to tourists . It grants unlimited travel on most of Japan's JR (Japan Railways) train network — and it extends to almost every corner of the country.
📌 What is it used for?
You can use many long-distance trains, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), for free.
Urban JR lines (such as the Yamanote Line in Tokyo) are also included in the JR Pass.
Some buses and JR ferries are also covered.
How Many Days Can Be Taken?
7 days old
14 days old
21 days (price varies depending on duration)
How Profitable?
If you are going to travel a lot between cities in Japan, such as Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka, this will save you a lot of money . For example, a one-way Tokyo → Kyoto Shinkansen ticket is around ≈ 100 USD, while a 7-day JR Pass is around ≈ 250-300 USD.
🔑 Important Notes:
Only foreigners with a tourist visa can get it.
It should be purchased online or from authorized agents before going to Japan (some types can also be purchased in Japan, but are more expensive).
It will have your name on it and will be displayed with your passport.
On some trains that require reservations (especially Shinkansen) , seat reservations can be made free of charge.
🎯 Should I Get a JR Pass or Not?
JR Pass Worth Buying:
✅ If you are going to visit many cities: For example, if your route is like this: Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Hiroshima → Tokyo , then the JR Pass will definitely be very profitable .
✅ If you are short on time: If you are going to quickly move between cities, the JR Pass will save you both time and money.
You Can Do Without Getting a JR Pass:
🚫 If you are only staying in Tokyo: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway are generally used for transportation within Tokyo, but these are not included in the JR Pass . So the JR Pass is wasted.
🚫 If you are planning a slow-paced trip: If you are doing a short route like Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka and will be staying for a long time, it may be more economical to buy individual tickets.
🚫 If you will use Shinkansen less: JR Pass will be expensive if you will only use 1-2 train tickets. I would recommend not buying it without doing the math.
Mini Calculation Before You Decide
For example:
Tokyo → Kyoto (one way): Approximately 13,000 yen (~$85)
Kyoto → Osaka: 1,500 yen (~$10)
Osaka → Tokyo (one way): 13,000 yen (~$85)Total ≈$180→ 7-day JR Pass ≈$250-300It may not be worth the small difference here, but if you add extra excursions it will still be profitable.
✨ In summary:
If you have a busy route → Buy.
Just one city or short distance → Pickup.
There are two airports in Tokyo that you can probably reach, Haneda and Narita. B
If you landed at Haneda Airport: This is the airport closer to Tokyo city center, so even if it is out of your control, something good has happened to you and you will reach your home/hotel in less time. At this point, if we go deeper into your options to reach Tokyo city center;
1. Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line (Most Popular Option)
The most common way to get from Haneda to the city center is by using the Tokyo Monorail .
You can take the Monorail from Haneda's Terminal 3 or Terminal 1/2 stations.
You can easily reach central areas such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo Station by getting off at Hamamatsucho Station and transferring to JR Yamanote Line.🕒 Approximate time: 30–40 minutes💴 Average fee: 500-600 yen
2. Keikyu Line (Alternative with Metro)
The Keikyu train line is also a fast and affordable alternative.
You can board from Haneda and transfer directly to stations on Shinagawa or Asakusa Line .
With this line, you can reach places like Tokyo, Ginza, Asakusa directly or with a single transfer.🕒 Approximate duration: 30–45 minutes💴 Average fare: 400–600 yen
3. Airport Limousine Bus (Ideal for Passengers with Luggage)
If you don't want to deal with luggage, airport buses are a comfortable alternative.
It goes directly to major hotels and main stations.
Especially for areas like Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Roppongi.🕒 Approximate duration: 45–70 minutes (varies depending on traffic conditions)💴 Average fee: 1000–1500 yen
4. Taxi (Comfortable but Expensive Option)
It is of course possible to go to the center by taxi from Haneda, but it is quite expensive.🕒 Approximate time: 30–60 minutes💴 Average fare: 7,000–12,000 yen💡 Night tariff may be more expensive.
✨ Mini Summary:
Fast and convenient : Monorail + JR
Alternative : Keikyu Subway
Comfortable : Limousine Bus
Luxury : Taxi
If you landed at Narita Airport: This airport is quite far from the city center, but with Tokyo’s king-like transportation system and superior Japanese technology (I’ve always wanted to say this sentence), there’s no problem for you, friends, unpleasant, but not insurmountable. There are also many transportation options from Narita. Since we’re starting to fear that this article will be a book-length article if we talk about each one, we ’ll leave the following link here, which summarizes all these options in great detail.
Narita Airport is located a bit outside Tokyo, but you have many convenient and fast options to get to the city center. Here are the most practical ways to get from Narita to Tokyo:
1. Narita Express (N'EX) – The Most Comfortable and Fast Option
If you want to go directly from Narita to major destinations such as Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shinagawa, Ikebukuro and Yokohama , Narita Express (N'EX) is for you.
The trains are fast, comfortable and have special areas for carrying luggage.
If you have a JR Pass, you can ride for free!🕒 Duration: 50–60 minutes (to Tokyo Station)💴 Price: Approximately 3000 yen (Free if you have a JR Pass)
2. Keisei Skyliner – Especially If You’re Going to Ueno and Nippori
If your route is around Ueno or Nippori station, the Skyliner is faster.
You can take the bus from Narita and reach Keisei Ueno or Nippori station in about 40 minutes.
You can take the subway from these stations and continue wherever you want.🕒 Duration: 36–45 minutes💴 Price: Approximately 2500 yen
🚇 3. Keisei Access Express – Affordable Alternative
For those who want a more affordable but still direct connection , the Keisei Access Express line is a good choice.
You can go to areas such as Shimbashi, Asakusa, Nihombashi without a transfer.🕒 Duration: 60–90 minutes (depending on your destination)💴 Price: Approximately 1300–1500 yen
🚌 4. Airport Limousine Bus – Comfortable for Those Traveling with Luggage
If you have a lot of luggage and want a comfortable journey on the bus, you can go directly to many hotels or stations with Limousine Bus.🕒 Duration: 90–120 minutes (extended if there is traffic)💴 Price: Around 2800–3500 yen
🚖 5. Taxi – Luxurious But Quite Expensive
It is possible to take a taxi from Narita to the city center, but it is very expensive.🕒 Duration: 60–90 minutes💴 Price: 20,000–30,000 yen (approximately 130–200 USD)
✅ Result:
If you want comfort and speed : Narita Express (free with JR Pass)
For the Ueno area : Skyliner
Economic way : Access Express
Travel comfortably with luggage : Limousine Bus
I'm in a hurry, my budget is big : Taxi
Shinkansen is the proud high-speed train system of Japan, and is both a marvel of technology and an extraordinary travel experience.
While you are in Japan, getting on a Shinkansen at least once is a cultural experience! Shinkansen, which means “bullet train”, is not only a symbol of speed, but also of comfort, punctuality and courtesy . This system, which first started operating on the Tokyo-Osaka line in 1964, now extends to every corner of the country and can reach speeds of 320 km/h. In fact, it is possible to go from Tokyo to Kyoto in just 2 hours!
Traveling by Shinkansen is as fast as flying, but much less stressful. No security checks, no hours-long waits, no check-in confusion. Just go to the station, step onto the platform, and board your on-time train. It’s that simple! The seats are wide and comfortable, legroom is much better than on an airplane, and the cleanliness of the train interior is legendary.
There are two types of tickets on the Shinkansen: Reserved (seat reserved) and Non-Reserved (seat not reserved) . If you’re travelling during rush hour, it makes sense to reserve a seat. You can also buy bento boxes called “ekiben” at the stations before boarding the train, turning your train journey into a small gastronomic feast.
If you are going to visit more than one city in Japan, it might make sense to get a Japan Rail Pass, as it allows you to travel freely on JR lines, especially the Shinkansen. But remember: This ticket must be purchased before you go to Japan, i.e. while you are outside the country!
One last note: It is rude to talk on the phone on the train, silence is preferred. As part of Japanese politeness, you can read a book in peace during the journey and enjoy the view. If you even catch a view of Mount Fuji outdoors, you can make this moment unforgettable.
Transportation in Japan is world famous for its punctuality and order; however, at first glance, it can be a bit intimidating because the subway map looks like a piece of modern art. So my first suggestion: definitely download apps like Google Maps or Japan Travel (Navitime) . They even show you in detail which train and carriage to get on, and which exit to exit from! Since there are so many station exits in Japan, getting out of the right door saves time.
Secondly, it is part of Japanese culture to not talk and be quiet on trains. Talking on the phone is frowned upon, so silence is the most polite thing to do on public transport.
If you are going to take a long train journey (for example to other cities like Kyoto or Osaka), you can choose Shinkansen , or bullet trains. Although they are a bit expensive, they save time. For such trips, getting a JR Pass reduces the cost, but it is only given to tourists and must be purchased in advance.
Using a Pasmo or Suica card for city transportation is much more practical than buying a single ticket. You can also use these cards at markets, vending machines, and even some restaurants.
Finally, you won’t have to worry about being late on public transport in Japan, as trains usually arrive promptly. Sometimes, apologies are even announced for delays of up to 20 seconds! So getting to the station a few minutes early can help you both find a seat and avoid chaos.
The Tokyo Metro is one of the largest and busiest transportation networks in the world. It consists of two main systems, the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway . Although there are different companies between them, in practice the system works integrated.
With 13 main metro lines and hundreds of stops, the city is surrounded like a spider's web.
Whichever area you want to go to, there is always a metro stop.
Each line has a color and letter code (for example: G – Ginza Line ), making it easy to find directions.
Trains usually arrive every 2-3 minutes .
It runs like clockwork; there is almost no delay.
It gets crowded in the morning and evening hours, but everyone follows the line and is quiet.
With IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo , you can travel easily on all metro lines, trains and buses.
You just scan your card at the turnstile and pass, everything is contactless and practical!
Metro maps, digital displays and announcements are often in English as well .
It is tourist friendly. The names of the stops are also written in Latin letters.
Apps like Google Maps and Japan Transit Planner are great for finding routes and checking times instantly.
It shows you step by step which train you should take, where you should get on and where you should get off.
Bonus Tip 🎁 During rush hour (especially between 7am and 9am), trains can get very crowded. Some trains even have “women-only carriages”.
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