How does transportation work in Tokyo?
Tokyo is one of the largest and most populated cities in the world, so public transportation in Tokyo is vital for getting around. Tokyo is one of the best connected cities and with all the tourist spots it has, it's great to be able to get anywhere by public transport.
Transportation in Tokyo: Subway
Transportation in Tokyo, including its train system, is very comprehensive and is one of the most popular forms of transportation in the city. There are several train companies operating in Tokyo, each with their own lines and fares. Some of the best-known companies include:
Japan Railways (JR): JR is Japan's largest train company and operates several lines in Tokyo. The main line is the Yamanote Line, which circles the city centre and connects many of the most popular neighbourhoods. LThe best way to get around Tokyo is without a doubt the train., especially the JR Yamanote Line.
Tokyo Metro: Tokyo Metro is the subway company of Tokyo and operates nine lines in the city.
Toei: Toei is another subway company that operates in Tokyo and has four lines.
Tokyo's train system is very efficient and easy to use, although it can be a bit tricky for non-Japanese speaking visitors. However, most stations have signs in English and there are plenty of ticket machines that accept credit cards and foreign currencies. Additionally, there are mobile apps available that can help you plan your train journey.
Transportation in Tokyo: Buses
Within transportation in Tokyo, there is an extensive network of public buses that connect different parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to reach destinations that are not as well connected by train or subway. Some of the advantages of using public buses in Tokyo include:
They connect many parts of the city: Buses cover much of Tokyo, so you'll likely be able to get to your destination.
They are cheaper than other means of transport: Buses are usually cheaper than the train or subway.
They offer panoramic views: The buses have large windows, so you can enjoy panoramic views as you move around the city.
They are accessible: Many buses in Tokyo are adapted for people with disabilities and have a section reserved for wheelchairs.
Price
Adult: ¥210 (IC card: ¥210)
Child: ¥110 (IC card: ¥105)
Daily Economy Passes (Toei Marugoto Kippu and Daily Economy Passes for Toei Bus) are also available on Toei buses.
Transport IC cards
IC technology is common in Tokyo transportation, which stands for “integrated circuit” – the technology that allows the card to be read. IC cards have a variety of uses in different countries, but were first introduced in Japan as a prepaid transportation card and have been expanded in recent years to become a payment method for other services.
Since IC cards are prepaid, they must be loaded with money before they can be used. This can be done at the same ticket machines that sell the cards, and it is often possible to load using a machine for a different IC card brand (such as loading a Suica card into a PASMO machine).
Suica
Suica is perhaps the most popular IC card for transportation in Tokyo and Japan in general, as it is sold by JR East for the Tokyo metropolitan area up to the Nigata and Sendai areas. The Suica card allows you to use most public transportation (subway, trains, buses, monorails and taxis) in Japan. The card is loaded for each trip or purchase by simply touching the terminals displaying the Suica card logo.
Price
The Suica card has an initial cost of 1.000 ¥ (7,10 €) of which 500 ¥ (3,60 €) are credit and the other 500 ¥ (3,60 €) are charged as a depositThis amount is fully refunded upon returning the card to the Japan Rail offices (Suica).
Where to buy?
You can purchase these cards at the Japan Rail offices (Suica) or those of other train companies (Pasmo).
Pasmo Passport
This is a special card with privileges only available to foreign travelers visiting Japan.
It can be used for train and bus travel in the Kanto area and nationwide where cards are accepted, and for making electronic payments when shopping.
Presenting this card at participating establishments and stores in the PASMO area entitles you to special discounts.
Price
Price: 2,000¥ (Cumulative rate of 1.500¥ + issuance costs of 500¥)
Expires after 28 days
(The stored fare balance cannot be refunded)
Where to buy?
You can purchase this card at Narita and Haneda airports, as well as at other points you can see here.
The card is sold attached to a special paper holder after presenting your passport to prove that you are a foreign visitor.
Here You have all the information about the Pasmo Passport.
Tokyo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Explore Tokyo's most iconic landmarks in a comfortable and entertaining way: on the tourist bus. Hop on and off at any of its stops and discover the city at your own pace. With two different routes and a convertible roof!
