Getting Around Tokyo: Trains, IC Cards, the Last Train and Taxis

Tokyo's trains are fast, clean and always on time, but the system can feel huge on day one. Here's everything you need to move around like a local.

From the airport

  • Narita: Narita Express (JR) or Keisei Skyliner into the city, or the Airport Limousine Bus to major hotels.
  • Haneda: Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail. It's close to the city, so a taxi is also an option at night.

Get an IC card: Suica or PASMO

An IC card is a rechargeable card you tap at the ticket gate. One card works on almost all trains, subways and buses in Tokyo, plus convenience stores and vending machines. You can add Suica or PASMO to the wallet app on your phone (iPhone and many Android phones), or get a visitor version such as Welcome Suica at major airports and stations. Top it up with cash at station machines.

Riding the train

  • Follow the line colors and station numbers (for example G09). They're on every sign and map.
  • Queue at the marks on the platform and let people get off first.
  • Rush hour is roughly 7:30–9:30 a.m. and 5:30–7:30 p.m. Avoid it with big luggage if you can.
  • Some lines have women-only cars during the morning rush. Look for pink signs on the platform and the car, and choose another car.
  • No phone calls on the train. Keep your voice low.

Watch the last train

Most lines stop running around midnight to 1 a.m. and start again around 5 a.m. Check your last train before your night out. If you miss it, your options are a taxi, a 24-hour place, or waiting for the first train.

Taxis

  • The back door opens and closes automatically. Don't touch it.
  • Show the address or the place name on your phone. Many drivers don't speak English.
  • Taxi apps such as GO and Uber work in Tokyo, and most taxis take cards.
  • Late-night rides (from 10 p.m.) cost more than daytime rides.

Words that work

  • ___ made onegaishimasu — To ___, please (taxi)
  • Shuuden wa nanji desu ka? — What time is the last train?
  • ___ wa doko desu ka? — Where is ___?

Planning your route around Tokyo? Ask John.

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