Tokyo Travel
Find out about the variety of Tokyo travel options available to you for getting around the city, as well as some essential city travel tips.
Tokyo transport is one of the best known systems in the world for it's reliability, convenience and affordability. You just need to know how to use it.
Having a little bit of know how can really take the stress out of your stay, maximize your leisure time, and ensure a smooth ride.
Check below for info on trains, buses, the Japan Rail Pass, the bullet train, and more...
Tokyo Trains
Tokyo Train - When you're visiting Tokyo, travel by train is cheap, reliable and convenient. The system here is - well - phenomenal. I've never seen or experienced infrastructure like it.The busiest station, Shinjuku, sees approximately 3 million people pass through it each working day. It's most definitely a hats off to the Japanese for this one.
Average waiting time for a train - maximum 6 - 8 minutes. There's the Tokyo subway, the regular overground lines, the Yamanote Line that loops around the center of the city, the monorails, the Disney train, and, of course, the world famous Shinkansen - or perhaps as it's better known - the bullet train.
Japan Rail Pass
Japan Rail Pass - You can get tickets for a specific journey, for a day or a re-chargeable card that works on any line.The subway offers the Pasmo rail card option whilst JR East offers the Suica card. Both are used in exactly the same way and can be used on both JR and subway lines.
If you're here as a tourist on a Japan visa, you can take the option of the Japan Rail Pass for the duration of your stay.
Be aware, if you only plan on traveling in Tokyo then it really isn't worth the financial outlay - only get this one if you intend to visit other parts of Japan as well. Follow the link to find out more to find out more about this method of Tokyo travel.
Staying Out Late
A word of caution - if you're on a big night out be aware that the trains stop around midnight. If you're up for it you can wait for them to start again at about 5am, otherwise your options dwindle to a much more expensive taxi.
Tokyo Taxis
Tokyo Taxi - Not the cheapest option by any means but if you want a door-to-door service, this could be for you.Taxis are metered and many now have the satellite navigation option which helps when you're not too sure about where you're going.
Generally, it's the international etiquette of stick your hand out and flag a taxi down. Exceptions include popular night spots, shopping centers and outside train stations where there is usually a taxi rank with a designated area for queueing.
Tokyo Car Rental
Tokyo Car Rental - So you want to drive? Ok. I can tell you where to go and what you'll need with you to rent a car in Tokyo. It's relatively easy to do once you find someone who can deal with you in English or your required language.What I can't do is share with you any experiences about this one. Public transport is so convenient and cheap that I've never yet taken the bit between my teeth and driven in Japan. If this changes, I'll let you know how I get on : )
Bus Routes In Tokyo
Bus Routes in Tokyo - Travel by bus is supported by an extensive local bus network although, hmmmm....., if you're worried about knowing when to get off, I'd stick to the trains. For the majority of tours, trips and journeys you will need to make, they are more than enough.Still need/want to use the bus? No problem - just follow the link above.
The Narita airport limousine bus is a different matter all together. When you first land in the city, this is a great Tokyo travel service and easy to use. You can book your ticket at either airport and go directly to one of the major hubs in the city center of Tokyo.
Cycling In Tokyo
Cycling in Tokyo - Two wheels are sometimes as good as, if not faster, than four. Especially when you're in the big city.Don't expect to cycle on the roads though. Most people cycle on the pavements or sidewalks - when there are any - which can lead to some rather dodgy pedestrian moments. Watch out for someone ringing their bell behind you or the slightly deranged person weaving across the pavement as they head towards you!
Walking Your Way Round Tokyo
Walking - Last but not least - legs.
If you like taking a stroll it's well worth putting your orienteering head on and negotiating your own Tokyo travel route from A to B. Go at your own pace so you can stop and stare in wonder at some of the sights you will undoubtably see - and don't forget your camera!
Get off the beaten path and onto the back streets of Tokyo to really see what this city is all about. As the song says - take a walk on the wild side...... only joking.
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