It is often said Japanese transport networks are punctual and safe. However, they are very complicated, too. If you understand the transport system, your stay in Japan will be more comfortable!
Contents
1. TRAINS IN JAPAN
Shinkansen
Shinkansen is a high-speed railroad service. Shinkansen runs between the major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka. You can buy Shinkansen’s tickets at JR ticket office(Midori-no-madoguchi みどりの窓口).
Private Railway
Japan has dozens of private railway companies which are not owned by JR group. Private railway lines intersect with the JR, and also provide service to areas where the JR group has not yet come.
Japan Railways(JR)
The Japan Railways Group, known as JR group, lies at the heart of Japanese railway network. It is a good idea to buy a JR Regional Pass if you are traveling in a single region.
How to ride a train
STEP 1 PURCHASE A TICKET
- Shinkansen / Limited Express
You can buy a ticket at Ticket Office or ticket vending machines.
2. Special Rapid / Rapid / Local
You can buy a ticket at ticket vending machines (not a ticket office).
STEP 2 GO THROUGH THE TICKET GATE
Insert tickets into the automated ticket gate, and then the ticket will be returned at the other side of the gate. Don’t forget to pick up your ticket!
STEP 3 BOARD THE TRAIN
2. SUBWAYS IN JAPAN
Major cities in Japan have their own subway lines. The Tokyo Metro is one of the most famous and popular subways in Japan. The Tokyo Subway Day Ticket is an unlimited pass for travelers that is valid for 1, 2, or 3 days! If you are going around the cities using Tokyo Metro lines and Toei networks, check this pass!
3. USEFUL APPLICATIONS ABOUT TRANSPORT
This is a free application provided by Tokyo Metro. You can search transfer information for the Tokyo Subway network (Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway).
Japan Travel
This is also a free application provided by NAVITIME. This application offers maps, articles with essential information, and so on.
Hyperdia
This is also a free Japanese application developed for commuters and tourists in Japan. It is available in English, Chinese, Japanese. You can easily get transport information in this application. If you use iPhone, Hyperdia by Voice is also useful. You can get the information by talking to your iPhone like Siri.
References
Tokyo Metro, “Welcome to Tokyo Metro”,<https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/travel/index.html> Accessed March 16, 2021.
Header Photo by M.S. Meeuwesen on Unsplash