Global Major Cities Guide

Tokyo's extensive train system includes subways, commuter trains, and high-speed rail, making it the backbone of the city's transportation network.

Tokyo’s train system is a combination of several operators, with the most prominent being:

JR East (Japan Railways East): Operates major lines like the Yamanote Line, which is a circular line connecting key areas in Tokyo.
Tokyo Metro: A private subway operator with 9 lines covering central Tokyo.
Toei Subway: Operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, with 4 subway lines.
Private Railways: Companies like Keio, Odakyu, Tobu, Seibu, Keikyu, and Tokyu operate lines connecting Tokyo to its suburbs and neighboring prefectures.

Each system is integrated, making it easy to transfer between lines, though separate tickets or passes may be required depending on the operator.

Local Trains: Stop at every station on the line.
Rapid/Express Trains: Skip smaller stations to provide faster service.
Limited Express Trains: Require a reserved seat ticket in addition to the base fare and are faster than express trains.
Shinkansen (Bullet Trains): High-speed trains connecting Tokyo to other cities in Japan. These are not typically used for intra-city travel.

There are several ways to pay for train rides in Tokyo:

Suica (by JR East) and Pasmo (by Tokyo Metro) are rechargeable IC cards that can be used on almost all trains, subways, and buses in Tokyo, as well as in convenience stores and vending machines.
How to Use: Tap the card on the ticket gate when entering and exiting. The fare is automatically deducted.
Cost: A deposit of ¥500 is required when purchasing the card. You can load it with any amount (increments of ¥1,000 are common).
Where to Buy: Ticket machines or counters at train stations.

You can purchase single-use tickets at ticket machines in stations. Fares are based on the distance traveled.
Cost: Typically ranges from ¥140 to ¥300 for most intra-city trips.

Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket: ¥600 for unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro lines.
Toei Subway One-Day Pass: ¥700 for unlimited rides on Toei Subway lines.
Tokyo Combination Ticket: ¥1,600 for unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and JR East lines within central Tokyo.

If you’re traveling across Japan, the JR Pass allows unlimited rides on JR trains, including the Yamanote Line in Tokyo. However, it’s not cost-effective for local travel alone.

Base Fare: ¥140–¥300 for most trips within Tokyo.
Express/Limited Express Surcharges: ¥500–¥2,000 depending on the train and distance.
Shinkansen: ¥3,000–¥15,000 depending on the destination.

Operating Hours: Most trains run from around 5:00 AM to midnight. The last trains can vary by line and station, so check schedules in advance.
Frequency: Trains run every 2–5 minutes during peak hours and every 5–10 minutes during off-peak hours.
Apps for Schedules:
- Google Maps: Provides accurate train routes and schedules.
- Navitime: A Japan-specific app with detailed train information.
- JR East App: Useful for JR lines.

Punctuality: Trains in Tokyo are extremely punctual. Arrive at the platform a few minutes early.
Platform Etiquette: Stand in line at the designated boarding areas. Allow passengers to exit before boarding.
Priority Seats: Reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children. Avoid using these seats unless necessary.
Quietness: Keep conversations quiet, and avoid talking on the phone while on the train.
Eating and Drinking: Generally discouraged on local trains but acceptable on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen.
Crowds: Trains can be extremely crowded during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM). Avoid these times if possible.

Plan Your Route: Use apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia to plan your journey. They provide detailed information on train lines, transfers, and costs.
Avoid Rush Hours: If you’re not used to crowded spaces, avoid traveling during peak times.
Look for English Signage: Most train stations and ticket machines have English instructions.
Use the Women-Only Cars: During morning rush hours, some trains have women-only cars. Look for pink signs on the platform.
Keep Your IC Card Handy: You’ll need it to enter and exit stations, so keep it in an easily accessible place.
Lost Items: If you lose something on a train, contact the station staff or the train operator’s lost and found service.

Yamanote Line (JR East): A loop line connecting major areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Akihabara, and Tokyo Station.
Chuo Line (JR East): Runs east-west through Tokyo, connecting Shinjuku and Tokyo Station.
Ginza Line (Tokyo Metro): Connects Asakusa, Ueno, Ginza, and Shibuya.
Hibiya Line (Tokyo Metro): Connects Roppongi, Ginza, and Akihabara.
Keio and Odakyu Lines: Connect Tokyo to popular day-trip destinations like Mount Takao and Hakone.

Most train stations in Tokyo are equipped with elevators, escalators, and ramps for wheelchair users. Look for signs indicating accessible routes.

By understanding the train system, ticketing options, and local etiquette, you’ll be able to navigate Tokyo with ease. Enjoy your travels!