Your Essential Guide to the Transport System in Tokyo

Tokyo, the bustling metropolis of Japan, boasts a world-class transportation system that seamlessly connects its diverse neighborhoods and extends far beyond the city limits. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, understanding Tokyo’s transportation options will ensure a smooth and efficient journey.

Trains and Subways: The Backbone of Urban Mobility

Tokyo’s extensive network of trains and subways forms the backbone of its transportation system, offering efficient and reliable travel throughout the city. Two major railway companies, JR East and Tokyo Metro, operate the majority of train lines, while Toei Subway manages four subway lines.

JR East: JR East, responsible for the iconic Yamanote Line, encompasses a wide range of train lines that connect Tokyo to its surrounding areas. Popular lines include the Keihin-Tohoku Line, Chuo Line, and Saikyo Line, each serving specific areas and destinations.

Tokyo Metro: Tokyo Metro operates nine subway lines within the 23 wards of Tokyo, providing convenient access to major attractions, business districts, and residential areas. Notable lines include the Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line, each offering unique routes and connections.

Toei Subway: Toei Subway’s four subway lines, including the Tozai Line and Asakusa Line, complement the JR East and Tokyo Metro networks, extending the reach of underground transportation throughout the city.

PASMO and Suica: Your Electronic Travel Companions

PASMO and Suica are prepaid IC cards that revolutionize your transportation experience in Tokyo. These cards can be used not only on trains and subways but also on buses, taxis, and even some vending machines and convenience stores.

Purchasing PASMO and Suica Cards:

PASMO and Suica cards can be purchased at most major train stations and convenience stores. A refundable deposit of ¥500 is required, and the cards can be topped up at ticket machines or convenience stores.

Benefits of PASMO and Suica Cards:

• Convenience: Eliminate the need to purchase individual tickets for each journey.
• Efficiency: Quickly tap your card at ticket gates and fare readers for seamless travel.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Enjoy slightly discounted fares compared to paper tickets.

Additional Convenient Passes

Tokyo offers a variety of passes that cater to different travel needs and durations. These passes often provide significant savings and simplify your transportation arrangements.

Tokyo Subway Ticket: This 24, 48, or 72-hour pass grants unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines, offering convenient and affordable travel within the city center.

Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokunai Pass): This pass provides unlimited rides on JR trains within the 23 wards of Tokyo, making it ideal for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Bus Options

Tokyo’s extensive bus network provides a convenient and affordable way to travel both short and long distances. Operated by various companies, including Toei (city-operated) buses, the fare for one journey typically ranges from ¥210 to ¥220, with one-day passes available for ¥600.

Flat Rate Buses:

For flat rate buses, board from the front door and insert the fare into the machine next to the driver or use your PAS-MO or Suica card. Some machines provide change, but others may require you to have the exact fare. Notify the driver of your desired stop by pressing the buzzer when the announcement is made.

Non-Flat Rate Buses:

For non-flat rate buses, board from the rear door and disembark from the front. Take a ticket from the machine when you board and pay the corresponding fare according to the distance traveled when you get off. Alternatively, use your Suica or Pasmo IC card to swipe upon boarding and disembarking.

Community Buses:

Community buses, operating on a smaller scale within specific wards or city divisions, offer flat rate fares of ¥100 or ¥200.

Night Buses:

Night buses, operating between central Tokyo and outlying areas after regular bus services end, provide an economical alternative to late-night taxis.

Taxis

Taxis offer a convenient but pricier mode of transportation, especially for short distances. Fares are calculated by distance and time, with the minimum rate starting at ¥500 for the first 1,052 meters in the 23 wards of Tokyo plus Mitaka and Musashino cities. In other areas, the minimum fare is ¥500 for the first 1.2 kilometers. Fares increase incrementally thereafter, and late-night fares (between 10pm and 5am) are usually higher.

To Catch a Taxi:

To hail a taxi, simply wave your hand. Taxi doors are opened and closed by the driver, and tipping is not customary. Many taxis accept payment by credit card, PASMO, or Suica. Uber also operates in Tokyo, but its fares are similar to those of regular taxis.

Other Transport Options

Shinkansen: Bullet Trains to Distant Destinations

Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet trains, connect Tokyo to major cities across the country. From Tokyo and Ueno stations, Shinkansen lines reach destinations like Nagano, Niigata, Yamagata, Akita, and Hokkaido in the north, while Shinkansen from Tokyo and Shinagawa stations serve Kansai and western Japan.

Highway Buses: Affordable Intercity Travel

Highway buses offer a cost-effective alternative for longer journeys within Japan. Connecting most major cities, highway buses provide direct routes with minimal stops along the way. Many buses depart from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, while Yokohama offers services from Yokohama Station and Sakuragicho Station.

What Next?

At Housing Japan, we specialise in buying, selling, and managing residential luxury real estate. Whether you are a local resident or simply seeking a second home or temporary residence for business trips, we have you covered. Our one-stop service includes expert management services, so you can sit back and relax knowing that everything is taken care of. Whether you are looking for a luxurious living experience or an investment opportunity, we are here to help you every step of the way.