Getting Around Tokyo

A giant metropolis like the Japanese capital is a daunting prospect to navigate, but there are lots of transport options in Tokyo.

It’s quite strange that hardly any streets are named, and it certainly makes getting around a lot harder, but the first tip on using public transport is to take note on how many minutes’ walk your hotel/restaurant/museum is from the nearest train station. Many places advertise walking time to help you get around, and it’s the single biggest tip to take on board.

If you are coming out of a station, look for the yellow platform signs that tell you which exit to use for certain attractions. There are lots of trains in Tokyo, as well as a subway system, and this is the cheapest way to see the city. You can also take buses.

Each mode of transport takes a different individual ticket, but there are passes that will get you onto all of them. Look out for Suica or PASMO pre-paid cards, which will deduct fares on all public transport when you tap in.

You can also use them in some shops and restaurants. Another option is the one-day Tokyo Combination Ticket, which lets you make unlimited journeys on all public transport for one day. Remember to download the Tokyo Subway Navigation app to help you get around.

You can also get in a taxi, which is more convenient if expensive. You also run the risk of getting stuck in traffic and watching the cost of your journey rise slowly but surely.