How To Ride Subway In Japan: Travel Guides And Tips For Tourists

YOGYAKARTA - Riding a subway in Japan is one of the most practical and efficient ways to explore tourist attractions. The system is known to be on time, clean, and has a wide network that is connected to almost every corner of Tokyo. No wonder tourists rely on this transportation while in Japan.

For tourists who first went to Japan, taking a subway could be a bit confusing. But don't worry, here will be discussed basic steps to take the subway in Japan, ticket and IC card options, to tips for smooth travel.

Reporting from Go Tokyo, there are two main operators serving the mobility of millions of subway passengers in Japan, namely Tokyo Metro and Toei Transportation. With more than 280 stations, the Tokyo subway allows you to reach various tourist attractions quickly and easily.

Tokyo Metro is Tokyo's largest subway operator with nine routes that span 195 km. Its network connects the northwest to east of the city, and some of its lines are directly connected to other trains to facilitate travel. Most tourists rely on Tokyo Metro because access is broad and easy to understand.

Meanwhile, Toei Subway operates four main routes, namely Asakusa, Mita, Shinjuku, and Oedo. The Oedo route is very popular because it forms a circular route around the city, while the Asakusa Route is directly connected to the airport. During peak hours, Toei is also relied on by millions of passengers every day.

Apart from Tokyo Metro and Toei, there are also other train lines operated by JR, Keio, or Odakyu. Each operator has its own ticket system that can be purchased via automatic engine at the station. The JR line can be used with JR Pass, while other lanes need separate IC tickets or cards.

When you want to take a subway in Japan, the first step is to buy a ticket or use an IC card. Multilanguage ticket machines are available at each station to help you choose travel rates according to your distance.

Ticket prices vary, Tokyo Metro ranges from 180 to 330 yen (Rp19,500-Rp35,500), depending on your travel distance. Toei fares are slightly more expensive, ranging from 180 to 430 yen (Rp19,500-Rp46,000). After the tickets are obtained, simply add the tickets to the gate engine and take back tickets that come out on the other side.

If you prefer something more practical, use an IC card like Suita or PASMO. Just stick the card on the gate engine and your trip can start without the need to buy a ticket every time. The IC card can also be used to shop at minimarkets, automatic seller machines, to certain restaurants.

For tourists, there are Tokyo 1-3-day subway tickets that provide unlimited access to all routes from Tokyo Metro and Toei. This ticket allows you to save if you change lanes frequently in one day. You just need to show your passport to prove that you are a foreign tourist.

To make your journey more comfortable, it is important to understand ethics and habits on the Japanese subway. Japanese people really respect order, so basic rules such as queuing and prioritizing passengers going down must always be obeyed.

While waiting for the train, make sure you stand in the line that has been provided. When the train arrives, let the passengers get off first before you get on. This procedure makes the passenger flow more orderly and avoids buildup on the train door.

In addition, when on the train, avoid talking loudly or calling. Speaking on the phone is considered disrespectful and public spaces such as trains are respected as a place of calm. If you are carrying a large backpack, wear it in front of your chest or place it below so as not to disturb other passengers.

Make sure you also pay attention to the operating hours of the subway in Japan. The last train usually departs at around 23.30 p.m., while the first train starts at 05.00 a.m. Avoid going out too late if you don't want to be trapped without transportation home.

No less important, don't forget to give priority seats to passengers in need. This seat is intended for pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Respecting fellow passengers is an important part of the ethics of taking a subway in Japan.

That's how to ride a subway in Japan. By understanding the above discussions, it is guaranteed that your trip in Japan will be more comfortable and enjoyable with fast and easy access to various tourist attractions.

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