Nagoya

1. Overview of Nagoya’s Transportation System

Nagoya’s public transportation system is primarily operated by:

• Nagoya Municipal Subway: The backbone of the city’s transit system, with six lines (Higashiyama, Meijo, Meiko, Tsurumai, Sakura-dori, and Kamiiida).
• City Buses: Operated by the Nagoya Transportation Bureau, covering areas not served by the subway.
• JR Trains: Operated by JR Central, connecting Nagoya to regional and national destinations.
• Private Railways: Includes Meitetsu and Kintetsu lines, which connect Nagoya to nearby cities and airports.
• Aonami Line: A rail line connecting Nagoya Station to the Port of Nagoya.

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2. Types of Tickets and Passes

Nagoya offers a variety of ticketing options for its public transportation system. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Single Tickets

• Subway: Fares are distance-based, ranging from ¥210 to ¥340 for adults and ¥100 to ¥170 for children.
• Buses: Flat fare of ¥210 for adults and ¥100 for children within the city.
• How to Purchase: Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines in subway stations or directly from the bus driver (exact change required for buses).

B. IC Cards

Nagoya uses the manaca IC card, which is a rechargeable smart card that can be used on subways, buses, and most trains in the region (including JR, Meitetsu, and Kintetsu lines). It is also compatible with other IC cards in Japan, such as Suica and Pasmo.

• Cost: A refundable deposit of ¥500 is required when purchasing the card. You can load it with amounts starting from ¥1,000.
• Where to Buy: Available at subway station ticket machines, manned ticket counters, and convenience stores.
• Benefits:
  • No need to calculate fares; the system automatically deducts the correct amount.
  • Discounts of ¥10 per ride on subway and bus fares compared to single tickets.
  • Can be used for purchases at convenience stores and vending machines.

C. Day Passes

Nagoya offers several convenient day passes for unlimited travel:

1. Donichi Eco Kippu (Weekend Eco Ticket):
   • Unlimited rides on subways and buses for ¥620 (adults) and ¥310 (children).
   • Available only on weekends, public holidays, and the 8th of each month (designated as "Environment Day").
   • Can be purchased at subway ticket machines or on buses.
2. One-Day Subway Pass:
   • Unlimited subway rides for ¥740 (adults) and ¥370 (children).
   • Ideal for tourists exploring the city.
3. One-Day Bus & Subway Pass:
   • Unlimited rides on both subways and buses for ¥870 (adults) and ¥430 (children).
   • Great for areas not fully covered by the subway.
4. Shoryudo Nagoya Subway & Bus 1-Day Ticket:
   • Specifically for tourists, this pass includes unlimited subway and bus rides and discounts at select tourist attractions.
   • Costs ¥600 for adults and ¥300 for children.

D. Tourist Passes

1. Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus (Me~guru) Pass:
   • A dedicated sightseeing bus that stops at major attractions like Nagoya Castle, Toyota Commemorative Museum, and Atsuta Shrine.
   • Costs ¥500 for adults and ¥250 for children for a one-day pass.
2. Shoryudo Welcome Card:
   • A free card available to foreign tourists that provides discounts at attractions and shops. While it doesn’t cover transportation, it pairs well with the above passes.

E. Regional Passes

If you plan to travel outside Nagoya, consider these:

1. JR Central Passes:
   • Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass: Covers travel to Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa.
   • Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Area Pass: Covers travel to Ise Shrine and Kumano Kodo.
2. Meitetsu Rail Pass:
   • Covers travel on Meitetsu trains, including the airport line to Chubu Centrair International Airport.

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3. How to Purchase Tickets and Passes

• Ticket Machines: Found at all subway and train stations. Machines have English language options and are user-friendly.
• Manned Counters: Located at major stations like Nagoya Station, where staff can assist in English.
• Convenience Stores: Some passes, like the manaca card, can be recharged at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart.
• Online: Some regional passes can be purchased online in advance.

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4. Costs and Discounts

• Children’s Discounts: Children aged 6–12 pay half the adult fare, while children under 6 travel for free (up to two children per adult).
• Tourist Discounts: Passes like the Shoryudo Nagoya Subway & Bus 1-Day Ticket and Me~guru Pass are designed to save money for tourists visiting multiple attractions.
• Eco Discounts: The Donichi Eco Kippu encourages eco-friendly travel on weekends and holidays.

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5. Cultural and Practical Considerations

• Queueing: Always queue in an orderly line when waiting for subways, buses, or trains. Follow the arrows and markings on the platform.
• Punctuality: Trains and buses in Nagoya are extremely punctual. Arrive a few minutes early to avoid missing your ride.
• Quietness: Public transportation in Japan is generally quiet. Avoid talking loudly or making phone calls while on board.
• Exact Change for Buses: If you don’t have a manaca card, ensure you have exact change for bus fares. Drivers do not provide change.
• Accessibility: Most subway stations and buses are wheelchair accessible, and priority seating is available for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
• Eating and Drinking: It’s considered impolite to eat or drink on public transportation, though bottled drinks are generally acceptable.

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6. Tips for Tourists

• Plan Your Route: Use apps like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner to navigate the subway and train systems. Both provide accurate schedules and fare information.
• Carry Cash: While IC cards are widely accepted, some buses and smaller stations may only accept cash.
• Visit Tourist Information Centers: Located at major stations like Nagoya Station, these centers provide maps, brochures, and assistance in English.

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By understanding the ticketing options and cultural norms, you’ll find Nagoya’s transportation system easy to navigate and highly efficient. Enjoy your time exploring this dynamic city!