Public Transport in Tokyo

Tokyo’s world-renowned public transport system is efficient, punctual, and connects the entire metropolitan area. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about navigating trains, subways, buses, and IC cards in one of the world’s most advanced transit networks.

Key Sections

IC Cards & Payment Transport Modes Travel Tips Airport Transport Pass Options Scenic Routes

IC Cards & Payment Methods

Tokyo’s transport system offers several convenient payment options. IC cards are the most popular and efficient way to travel, accepted on all trains, subways, and buses throughout the metropolitan area.

Welcome Suica

🟢 Tourist Option

How it Works:

Rechargeable IC card – tap at ticket gates and on buses
Works on all JR lines, Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and most private railways
Valid nationwide on compatible transit systems
Can be used at convenience stores, vending machines, and shops

Where to Buy:

Narita & Haneda Airports only (JR East Travel Service Centers)

Cost: No deposit • Pre-loaded value (¥1,000-¥10,000)
Valid for 28 days • Balance non-refundable

Pasmo Passport

💳 Tourist Option

How it Works:

Identical functionality to Suica – fully interchangeable
Works on all trains, subways, and buses in Tokyo
Accepted at Tokyo Metro, Toei, and private railway stations
Same nationwide compatibility as Suica

Where to Buy:

Narita & Haneda Airports only (specific ticket counters)

Cost: No deposit • Pre-loaded value (¥1,000-¥10,000)
Valid for 28 days • Balance non-refundable

Mobile IC Cards

📱 Recommended

How it Works:

Digital Suica/PASMO on iPhone or compatible Android
Tap your phone at gates – same as physical cards
Recharge via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit card
No physical card needed – all benefits of IC cards

Setup Requirements:

Compatible smartphone with Apple Pay/Google Pay

iPhone: All models (8 and later) worldwide
Android: Japan models only (limited international support)
Setup: Free (no deposit required)

Single Tickets

🎫 For Occasional Use

How it Works:

Purchase paper tickets from vending machines at stations
Select destination and fare on ticket machine screen
Insert ticket at entry gate, retrieve at exit gate
Available in English, Chinese, Korean on most machines

When to Use:

Single trip only, or if you don’t want to purchase an IC card

Cost: Varies by distance (¥180-¥600+ typical)
Less convenient than IC cards for multiple trips

Important Update: Regular Suica and PASMO card sales are suspended due to chip shortages. Tourists should get Welcome Suica/Pasmo Passport at airports or use Mobile IC Cards. All IC options work interchangeably across Japan’s transit systems and offer fare discounts vs paper tickets.

Transport Modes in Tokyo

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JR Lines

Japan Railways operates major lines including the famous Yamanote Loop Line circling central Tokyo, plus express services to suburbs and neighboring cities. Most accessible network for tourists.

Yamanote Line loops every 60 minutes • Chuo Line crosses Tokyo east-west • Accepted: Suica, PASMO, IC cards

🚇

Tokyo Metro

Nine subway lines (Ginza, Marunouchi, Hibiya, Tozai, Chiyoda, Yurakucho, Hanzomon, Namboku, Fukutoshin) forming the backbone of Tokyo’s underground network. Clean, efficient, and extensively connected.

9 lines, 180+ stations • Hours: 5:00am-1:00am • Extensive coverage of central Tokyo and major districts

🚈

Toei Subway

Four additional subway lines (Asakusa, Mita, Shinjuku, Oedo) operated by Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Complements Tokyo Metro with different coverage areas and connections.

4 lines, 100+ stations • Separate operator from Tokyo Metro • Same IC cards accepted

🚃

Private Railways

Multiple private railway companies (Keio, Odakyu, Tokyu, Seibu, Tobu) connect Tokyo to suburbs and popular destinations like Hakone, Nikko, and Yokohama. Essential for day trips.

Access to Mount Takao, Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura • Express and limited express services • IC cards accepted

🚌

City Buses

Extensive bus network operated by Toei and private companies. Useful for areas not served by trains, though trains are generally more efficient for longer distances.

Flat fare: ¥210 (adult), ¥110 (child) • Pay when boarding or exiting • IC cards accepted

🚢

Water Buses

Scenic boat services along Sumida River and Tokyo Bay connecting Asakusa, Odaiba, and other waterfront locations. Tourist-friendly alternative to trains with unique perspectives.

Asakusa-Odaiba: 70 minutes • Tokyo Cruise, Tokyo Mizube Line • ¥1,000-¥1,500 typical fares

Tokyo Transport Travel Tips

Get an IC Card Immediately

Purchase a Suica or PASMO card at the airport upon arrival. It’s the most convenient way to travel and accepted everywhere – trains, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines.

Download Transit Apps

Google Maps works excellently in Tokyo for route planning. Also consider Japan Transit Planner or Hyperdia apps for detailed train schedules and platform information.

Master the Yamanote Line

The green JR Yamanote Line loops around central Tokyo and connects all major areas. Learn this line first – it’s your foundation for navigating the city.

Avoid Rush Hour

Morning rush (7:30-9:30am) and evening rush (5:30-8:00pm) are extremely crowded. Plan sightseeing to avoid these times, especially on weekdays.

Station Names in English

All major stations have English signage, announcements, and ticket machines. Don’t worry about the language barrier – Tokyo’s transit is very foreigner-friendly.

Check Last Train Times

Trains stop running around midnight (12:30-1:00am). Missing the last train means expensive taxis or waiting until 5:00am. Plan accordingly for late nights.

Women-Only Carriages

Available during rush hours on most lines, typically marked with pink signs. Located at specific platform positions – look for markings on the platform floor.

Mind Train Etiquette

Queue in lines on platforms, let passengers exit first, keep conversations quiet, put phones on silent, and don’t eat or drink on trains (except Shinkansen).

Consider Multi-Day Passes

If making 4+ trips per day, Tokyo Metro/Toei passes can save money. Calculate based on your itinerary – IC cards may still be more convenient.

Tokyo Airport Transport Guide

Getting to/from Tokyo Airports

From Narita International Airport (NRT)

Narita Express (N’EX)

Cost: ¥3,070 to Tokyo Station, ¥3,250 to Shinjuku

Duration: 53 minutes to Tokyo, 80 minutes to Shinjuku

Details: JR’s premium airport train with reserved seats, luggage space, and comfort. Direct service to major stations.

Schedule: Every 30-60 minutes, 7:00am-9:00pm

Keisei Skyliner

Cost: ¥2,570 to Nippori, ¥2,570 to Ueno

Duration: 36 minutes to Nippori, 41 minutes to Ueno

Details: Fastest option to central Tokyo. Reserved seats, modern trains, connects to Yamanote Line at Nippori.

Schedule: Every 20-40 minutes, 7:00am-11:00pm

Airport Limousine Bus

Cost: ¥3,200 to Tokyo Station hotels, ¥3,200 to Shinjuku hotels

Duration: 80-120 minutes depending on traffic and destination

Details: Direct to major hotels, comfortable with luggage storage. Subject to traffic delays.

Schedule: Frequent departures to various destinations

Keisei Access Express / Local

Cost: ¥1,270-¥1,370 to central Tokyo

Duration: 60-90 minutes with transfers

Details: Budget option connecting to Toei Asakusa Line and Tokyo Metro. More stops, longer journey.

Schedule: Frequent service throughout the day

From Haneda Airport (HND)

Tokyo Monorail

Cost: ¥500 to Hamamatsucho (connects to Yamanote Line)

Duration: 13-18 minutes to Hamamatsucho

Details: Fast, frequent, connects to JR Yamanote Line. Most convenient for JR Pass holders.

Schedule: Every 4-10 minutes, 5:00am-midnight

Keikyu Line

Cost: ¥300-¥600 depending on destination

Duration: 11 minutes to Shinagawa, connections to Yamanote Line and Tokaido Shinkansen

Details: Direct access to major stations, connects to multiple lines. Very convenient and affordable.

Schedule: Frequent departures, 5:00am-midnight

Airport Limousine Bus

Cost: ¥1,300-¥1,500 to major hotels

Duration: 30-60 minutes depending on destination and traffic

Details: Direct hotel service with luggage handling. Good for groups or heavy luggage.

Schedule: Various routes throughout the day

Taxi

Cost: ¥5,000-¥10,000 depending on destination

Duration: 30-60 minutes depending on traffic

Details: Most convenient but expensive. Fixed-rate options available to certain areas.

Schedule: 24/7 availability at airport taxi stands

Airport Transport Tips

Haneda is much closer to central Tokyo (30-40 minutes) compared to Narita (60-90 minutes)
Purchase IC cards at airport stations for immediate use throughout your trip
JR Pass holders can use Narita Express and Tokyo Monorail for free
Consider your hotel location when choosing airport transport – direct routes save time
Last trains leave airports around midnight – plan late arrivals accordingly
Book Airport Limousine Bus tickets in advance during peak season
All airport trains have luggage storage areas – don’t worry about space
English signage and announcements available on all airport transport

Tokyo Transit Pass Options

Choose from IC cards for pay-per-ride convenience or unlimited passes for extensive sightseeing. Each option suits different travel styles and durations.

Suica / PASMO IC Card

Pay-per-ride system – tap in and out at gates
Automatic fare calculation for any journey
Works on ALL trains, subways, and buses in Tokyo
Valid nationwide on compatible transit systems
Can be used at shops, vending machines, lockers
Slight discount vs paper tickets on most routes

¥500 deposit (refundable) + charge amount (¥1,000-¥10,000)
Best for: All travelers, any length of stay

Tokyo Metro 24/48/72-Hour Ticket

Unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro lines only (9 lines)
Does NOT include Toei Subway or JR lines
Available in 24, 48, or 72-hour versions
Good value if staying in Metro-accessible areas
Purchase at Tokyo Metro stations or airports

24hr: ¥600 | 48hr: ¥1,200 | 72hr: ¥1,500
Best for: Tourists focusing on central Tokyo Metro areas

Tokyo Subway Ticket (Tokyo Metro + Toei)

Unlimited rides on ALL Tokyo Metro AND Toei Subway lines
Covers all 13 subway lines in Tokyo
Does NOT include JR lines or private railways
Available in 24, 48, or 72-hour versions
Tourist-only pass – requires passport
Best value for subway-focused itineraries

24hr: ¥800 | 48hr: ¥1,200 | 72hr: ¥1,500
Best for: Tourists using subways extensively

JR Tokyo Wide Pass

3 consecutive days of unlimited JR travel
Covers Tokyo, Yokohama, Nikko, Hakone, Mount Fuji area
Includes Narita Express to/from airport
Great for day trips outside Tokyo
Does NOT include Tokyo Metro or Toei Subway
Foreign visitors only – passport required

¥10,180 for 3 consecutive days
Best for: Tourists planning multiple day trips from Tokyo

Which Pass Should You Choose?

Choose Suica/PASMO if:

✓ Want maximum flexibility
✓ Traveling any length of time
✓ Using mix of JR, Metro, and buses
✓ Want convenience store access

Choose Subway Passes if:

✓ Making 4+ subway trips per day
✓ Staying in central Tokyo
✓ Not planning JR travel
✓ Want unlimited rides

Choose JR Wide Pass if:

✓ Planning day trips to Nikko, Hakone
✓ Need Narita Express airport transfer
✓ Staying 3+ days
✓ Want regional exploration

Combine IC Card + Pass if:

✓ Have subway pass but need JR occasionally
✓ Want pass convenience + flexibility
✓ Using buses or private railways
✓ Maximum convenience

Tokyo’s Most Scenic Public Transport Routes

Experience Tokyo’s diversity from traditional temples to futuristic skylines using these memorable train and boat routes.

Yamanote Line Loop

Circle Tokyo’s major districts on the iconic green loop line, passing through Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Ueno, Akihabara, and Tokyo Station.

JR Yamanote Line 60 min full loop

Tokyo’s signature train line – window seat shows urban transformation

Sumida River Water Bus

Cruise from historic Asakusa to futuristic Odaiba, passing under 12 distinctive bridges with views of Tokyo Skytree, traditional districts, and modern waterfront.

Asakusa ↔ Odaiba 70 minutes

Unique perspective of Tokyo’s architectural evolution

Yurikamome Line to Odaiba

Automated elevated train crosses Rainbow Bridge with panoramic Tokyo Bay views, connecting Shimbashi to Odaiba’s entertainment district and waterfront attractions.

Shimbashi to Odaiba 22 minutes

Best views from front car – watch driverless operation

Chuo Line to Western Tokyo

Journey from ultra-urban Shinjuku through progressively suburban landscapes to Mount Takao, experiencing Tokyo’s transformation from concrete to nature.

Shinjuku to Takao 50 minutes

Watch city gradually give way to mountains and forests

Ginza Line – Tokyo’s Oldest Subway

Ride Japan’s first subway line from Asakusa’s temples through upscale Ginza shopping to modern Shibuya, experiencing layers of Tokyo’s history underground.

Asakusa to Shibuya 40 minutes

Historic retro-style stations showcase 1927 architecture

Enoden Line (Kamakura)

Charming local train hugs the Shonan coastline between Kamakura and Fujisawa, passing beaches, temples, and residential streets just 50 minutes from Tokyo.

Kamakura to Fujisawa 34 minutes

Perfect day trip – coastal views and historic temples

Tokyo Transport FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Suica card cost in Tokyo?

A Suica card requires a ¥500 refundable deposit plus your initial charge amount (typically ¥1,000-¥10,000). The deposit is fully refundable when you return the card. You can recharge at any station ticket machine or convenience store.

What’s the difference between Suica and PASMO?

There is no functional difference – they’re completely interchangeable and work on all trains, subways, and buses throughout Tokyo and Japan. Suica is issued by JR, PASMO by private railways and Tokyo Metro. Choose based on convenience of where you purchase.

How do I get from Narita Airport to Tokyo?

The fastest option is Keisei Skyliner (41 minutes to Ueno, ¥2,570). The most comfortable is Narita Express (53 minutes to Tokyo Station, ¥3,070). Budget travelers can use the Access Express (60-90 minutes, ¥1,270). All options have English signage and IC card compatibility.

Do I need to speak Japanese to use Tokyo trains?

No – Tokyo’s transit system is extremely foreigner-friendly. All major stations have English signage, announcements, and ticket machines. Google Maps works perfectly for navigation. Staff at major stations often speak basic English, and IC cards eliminate the need to read fare charts.

What time do Tokyo trains stop running?

Most trains run from approximately 5:00am to midnight (12:30-1:00am for last trains). There is NO 24-hour service. Missing the last train means expensive taxis (¥3,000-¥10,000+) or waiting until morning. Check last train times when planning late nights.

Is the JR Pass worth it for Tokyo only?

Generally no for Tokyo-only travel. The 7-day JR Pass (¥29,650) is designed for inter-city travel. For Tokyo only, use Suica/PASMO or subway passes. However, if combining Tokyo with trips to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, or using Narita Express multiple times, the JR Pass becomes valuable.

How crowded are Tokyo trains during rush hour?

Extremely crowded during morning rush (7:30-9:30am) and evening rush (5:30-8:00pm) on weekdays. Trains can reach 200% capacity with passengers literally pushed into cars by station staff. Tourists should avoid rush hours when possible. Weekends and midday are much more comfortable.

Can I use my Suica card outside Tokyo?

Yes – Suica and PASMO work nationwide on compatible IC card systems including Osaka (ICOCA), Kyoto, Fukuoka (Suica accepted), Sapporo, and most major cities. They also work at convenience stores, vending machines, and lockers throughout Japan. It’s truly a nationwide payment system.

Accessible Public Transport in Tokyo

Accessibility Features in Tokyo Transit

♿

Wheelchair Accessibility

Most major stations have elevators, accessible toilets, and tactile paving. All newer trains have wheelchair spaces and priority seating. Station staff provide boarding assistance – look for the accessible icon on station maps.

🎧

Audio & Visual Announcements

All trains have visual displays showing next stations in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Audio announcements in multiple languages help passengers with visual impairments. Platform edge doors at major stations improve safety.

🦯

Tactile Guidance

Yellow tactile paving throughout stations guides visually impaired passengers to platforms, exits, and facilities. Braille on handrails and elevator buttons. Audio signals at ticket gates and crosswalks.

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Station Staff Assistance

Staff at major stations can arrange boarding assistance, ramp deployment, and help navigating transfers. While English may be limited, staff are trained to assist foreign passengers with accessibility needs. Use the station office (marked with “i” symbol).

🗺️

Accessible Route Planning

Tokyo Metro and JR East apps show elevator locations and accessible routes. Google Maps indicates wheelchair-accessible routes. Station maps clearly mark elevators, escalators, and accessible facilities with international symbols.

Getting Accessibility Support

📱

Useful Resources

Download the “Tokyo Metro for Tourists” app for accessibility information. JR East’s website has detailed accessible facility guides. For personalized assistance planning, contact station offices in advance or use the Tourist Information Centers at major stations.

JR East Accessible Travel Info: jreast.co.jp/e/customer_support

Tokyo Transport Resources

Official Tokyo Transport Resources

Tokyo Metro Official JR East (Suica & Trains) Toei Transportation Narita Airport Access Haneda Airport Access JR Pass Information