Nagoya

1. Train Types in Nagoya

Nagoya’s train system consists of several types of trains operated by different companies. Here’s an overview:

a. Nagoya Municipal Subway

• The subway system is the backbone of public transportation within Nagoya.
• It consists of 6 lines: Higashiyama Line (yellow), Meijo Line (purple), Meiko Line (red), Tsurumai Line (blue), Sakuradori Line (pink), and Kamiiida Line (green).
• The Meijo Line is a circular line, making it convenient for traveling around the city center.

b. JR Central (Japan Railways)

• Operates local, rapid, and Shinkansen (bullet train) services.
• The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Nagoya to major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
• JR local lines, such as the Chuo Line, Tokaido Line, and Kansai Line, connect Nagoya to nearby towns and cities.

c. Private Railways

• Meitetsu Railway: Connects Nagoya to Chubu Centrair International Airport and other regional destinations like Inuyama and Gifu.
• Kintetsu Railway: Links Nagoya to Mie Prefecture (e.g., Ise and Toba) and Osaka.
• Aonami Line: Connects Nagoya Station to the Nagoya Port area, including attractions like LEGOLAND Japan.

d. Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

• The Tokaido Shinkansen stops at Nagoya Station, providing high-speed access to other major cities in Japan.

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2. Fare Structures

The fare system in Nagoya varies depending on the train operator and distance traveled. Here’s a breakdown:

a. Subway Fares

• Fares range from ¥210 to ¥340 for adults, depending on the distance.
• Children (ages 6–12) pay half the adult fare.
• Free for children under 6 when accompanied by an adult.

b. JR and Private Railways

• Fares are calculated based on distance and train type (local, rapid, or express).
• For example, a one-way ticket from Nagoya to Chubu Centrair International Airport on the Meitetsu Line costs around ¥890.

c. Shinkansen Fares

• Fares depend on the distance and seat type (reserved, non-reserved, or Green Car).
• Example: A one-way ticket from Nagoya to Tokyo costs around ¥10,560 for a non-reserved seat.

d. Discount Passes

• Manaca IC Card: A rechargeable smart card that can be used on subways, buses, and most trains in Nagoya. It offers convenience and small discounts compared to paper tickets.
• 1-Day Subway Pass: Unlimited subway rides for ¥740 (adults) or ¥370 (children).
• Donichi Eco Kippu: A weekend/holiday pass for unlimited subway and bus rides for ¥620.

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3. Ticketing Procedures

• IC Cards (Manaca): Purchase and recharge at ticket machines or convenience stores. Simply tap the card on the reader at the ticket gates.
• Paper Tickets: Buy from ticket machines at stations. Insert the ticket into the gate and retrieve it after passing through.
• Shinkansen Tickets: Purchase at JR ticket counters (Midori no Madoguchi) or online via the JR Central website.
• Passes: Available at subway stations or tourist information centers.

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4. Navigation Tips

• Google Maps: Reliable for planning train routes in Nagoya. It provides real-time schedules and fare information.
• Hyperdia: A popular app for detailed train schedules and route planning in Japan.
• Station Signage: Signs are in Japanese and English, making navigation easier for non-Japanese speakers.
• Color-Coded Lines: Subway lines are color-coded and numbered, simplifying transfers.
• Platform Indicators: Look for electronic boards showing train destinations and departure times.

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5. Major Stations

Nagoya has several key train stations that serve as transportation hubs:

a. Nagoya Station

• One of the largest train stations in Japan.
• Serves JR lines, Shinkansen, Meitetsu, Kintetsu, and the subway.
• Connected to shopping malls like JR Takashimaya and underground shopping streets.

b. Kanayama Station

• A major transfer point for JR, Meitetsu, and the subway.
• Close to Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines.

c. Sakae Station

• Located in the city’s downtown area.
• Serves the Higashiyama and Meijo subway lines.
• Surrounded by shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

d. Chubu Centrair International Airport Station

• The gateway to Nagoya for international travelers.
• Connected to Nagoya by the Meitetsu Airport Line.

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6. Cultural Etiquette

• Queueing: Always line up in an orderly manner at designated spots on the platform.
• Quietness: Keep conversations low and avoid talking on the phone while on the train.
• Priority Seats: Reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Offer your seat if needed.
• Eating and Drinking: Generally discouraged on local trains but acceptable on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen.
• Luggage: Avoid blocking aisles or seats with large bags. Use overhead racks or designated luggage areas.

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7. Nearby Tourist Attractions Accessible by Train

Nagoya’s train system provides easy access to many attractions:

a. Within Nagoya

• Nagoya Castle: Take the Meijo Line to Shiyakusho Station.
• Atsuta Shrine: Accessible via JR Tokaido Line or Meijo Line to Atsuta Station.
• Osu Shopping District: Take the Tsurumai Line to Osu Kannon Station.
• Nagoya City Science Museum: Near Fushimi Station on the Higashiyama or Tsurumai Line.

b. Day Trips from Nagoya

• Inuyama Castle: Take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line to Inuyama Station.
• Gifu: Accessible via JR Tokaido Line or Meitetsu Line.
• Ise Grand Shrine: Take the Kintetsu Line to Ise-shi Station.
• LEGOLAND Japan: Take the Aonami Line to Kinjofuto Station.

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8. Additional Tips

• Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM) if possible.
• Luggage Delivery Services: Consider using luggage forwarding services (e.g., Takkyubin) if you’re traveling with large bags.
• Tourist Information Centers: Located at major stations like Nagoya Station, offering maps, brochures, and assistance in English.

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By understanding the train system in Nagoya, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the city and its surroundings efficiently and comfortably. Enjoy your trip!