Tokyo is known for having one of the most intense metro systems in the world. this is both a good and a bad thing. here’s our guide to navigating transport in tokyo, without spending time having (too many) meltdowns in subway stations and more time having sushi and ramen!
apps for navigating the tokyo metro system
1. tokyo metro official app
This is the official Tokyo metro line app, which is helpful for navigating the nine tokyo metro lines. you can calculate your fare, search for the best route for your destination including train timings and frequency, and check for real-time delays.
the main drawback is that it only covers the tokyo metro lines – not the private lines or Jr lines, which can be problematic depending on you r destination.
2. JNto japan official travel app
jnto = Japan national tourism organization. this app includes trains, subway lines, buses and some ferries across the country. you can search for routes across just about all the rail lines in tokyo including the private, jr and metro lines and it will even tell you which exit to use for your destination. Stations in tokyo can be massive, so where you exit from really matters – for example shinjuku station has over 200 exits, easy to get lost down there! you can also download the map for offline use.
3. Suica/pasmo
this is ideal because you can load your credit card onto these apps and simply tap your phone on the fare gate for access. it works for trains, subways and buses in tokyo and eliminates the need for fare calculations (since you’re just using your credit card, not cash at the ticket machines. you can also use this for vending machines and in certain shops too! it exists in a cute physical card form as well, but the phone version is sooo easy.
4. google maps
Google maps can definitely be super helpful when navigating in and around tokyo, however it definitely has limitations. part of the difficulty lies in the fact that there are multiple types of lines that exist on the tokyo metro (subway lines, jr lines, private rail lines) and it’s possible that these may all need separate fare tickets. that means some pretty intense fare calculation, and knowing when to swipe in and out of the fare gates. that being said, we did use google maps the first several times we visited tokyo, and it was manageable though a bit confusing at times.
Consider alternate modes
we’ve used plenty of ubers while getting around tokyo, in addition to the rail lines. sometimes, if you’re going to have to take 2-3 different lines to get back to your hotel after a long day of shopping in ginza, you just want the easy option. we’ve found uber prices to be much more affordable than in Los angeles, and sometimes the convenience aspect can be priceless.
pro tips for transport in tokyo
- pay attention to the color of the line you need, as this makes it easier to follow (this can be overhead, but sometimes on the floor as well)
- make sure to download the offline google map of tokyo while on wifi (and wherever else in japan you plan to visit)
- try to book a hotel convenient to a train station! see our page for hotels in tokyo for more info, but the hilton is really close and convenient to shinjuku station!
- lines can be super busy during rush hour, which means veryyy packed train compartments and possibly longer waits to get on board
- if you don’t have a phone with web browsing service while in japan, consider renting a pocket wifi at the airport on arrival! super easy, relatively affordable, can connect multiple devices and make route planning a lot easier
now you have the tools you need to succeed at navigating the Tokyo metro system! wanting more japan travel tips and inspo? head right on over to our japan page!