You found this post. Because you are overwhelmed by the train system in Tokyo, right? I understand it is very complicated because there are many train lines and many different railway companies. Actually it is very very hard to find the route for even the local tourist.
And also there are lots of deals available but you may not be able to find the coverage of the pass.
In this post, I will show you all subway lines and JR lines in downtown core of Tokyo. And I will also tell you about the train system surrounding in Tokyo too. Because some of trains that come from outside Tokyo go to downtown Tokyo via subway line. This is actually one of the reason why it is so difficult to understand train system in Tokyo.
- Overview of train system in Tokyo
- JR train network and coverage of JR deals
- Subway network in Tokyo
- Other deals
- Inter-connected through service (shared track)
- How to access to major spots in Tokyo by train
Overview of train system in Tokyo
Please see the map below:
I show you all subway lines, all JR lines and most of major private railway’s lines in downtown Tokyo on this map. But there are too many stations to show in this map. Only major stations, junctions and the nearest station to major tourist spots are shown in this map.
When you visit the tourist spots in Tokyo, such as Shinjuku, Ueno, Harajuku, Ginza, Asakusa, Skytree, Odaiba, Tsukiji Market, you have to find the locations, the nearest station and route. And you can choose your deal to visit these places. If you will use JR Pass, JR East Pass, Tokyo Wide Pass or other regional pass, you have to make sure the coverage of your pass. And you will find the additional fare on top of these pass if you visit the place where is not covered by your pass.
For the travellers who use Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA or other IC cards
You can take all railway’s trains in the map above. IC card makes your trip be very easy. You can tap your card when you enter and exit the ticket gate. But it does not give you any discount. If you intend to make many train trips, unlimited ride pass, such as subway pass is cheaper.
I would like to show you the coverage of major deals one by one from next chapter.
JR train network and coverage of JR deals
JR train network in Tokyo is much more simple than subway network. There are only three major lines that you need to know. Those are Yamanote line (loop line), Chuo line (Tokyo-Shinjuku-Mitaka), and Keiyo line (Tokyo-Maihama). you can access to many places in Tokyo by JR train only, such as Akihabara, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, Mitaka and Maihama. But there are many more JR lines in downtown Tokyo. If you want to know the detailed information about JR pass and JR deals coverage in Tokyo, please see the post or the movie below:
Some of you are thinking about using JR Pass, JR East Pass or Tokyo Wide Pass. These deals are national or regional deals and those cover Tokyo and many more areas. You can use these passes to take JR trains in downtown Tokyo. But using these deals while staying in Tokyo, please understand that the base fare to travel within downtown Tokyo is quite small. For example, the base fare for Tokyo to Shinjuku by JR local train is only 200 yen. Mostly base fare is around 200 yen. Traveling by these passes do not help to get worth very much. If you have any other trips to be covered by these passes, you should use the pass for other trip.
Japan Rail Pass (a.k.a. JR Pass), JR East Pass Nagano Niigata, JR East Pass Tohoku, JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
The coverage of these passes in downtown Tokyo is shown in the map below:
These cover JR trains and Tokyo Monorail (Hamamatsucho-Haneda) only. Subway and other private railway lines are not covered.
Tokyo Wide Pass
Tokyo Wide Pass covers Tokyo and surrounding area for 3 days. Please see the map below to find the coverage of this pass.
This pass covers JR trains, Tokyo Monorail (Hamamatsucho-Haneda) and Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit Rinkai Line. Rinkai line can take you Odaiba. This is a big benefit for sightseeing in Tokyo. Subway and other private railway lines are not covered.
Hokuriku Arch Pass
This pass cover the route between Tokyo and Osaka via Kanazawa. In downtown Tokyo, this pass covers JR local train network in downtown Tokyo. Please see the coverage of this deal in the map below:
This map shows you the coverage of Hokuriku Arch Pass in downtown Tokyo only. The pass also covers Tokyo to/from Narita airport and Tokyo to/from Haneda airport. Please see the link below to find the post of Hokuriku Arch Pass:
Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokyo Tokunai Pass)
This is one of JR local deals. It covers JR lines only in Tokyo 23 wards. If you do not use any other JR deals but you want to have unlimited ride of JR trains, this suits your plan. The price is 750 yen for one day. Please see the coverage of this deal in the map below:
It covers downtown Tokyo but you cannot visit the places where are outside coverage area, such as Tokyo Disney Resort, Ghibli Museum. Please find some more information about this deal at the link below:
Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokyo Tokunai Pass), good choice for sightseeing in Tokyo.
Subway network in Tokyo
Subway lines network in Tokyo is very complicated but it is most convenient train system in Tokyo. It covers whole part of Tokyo and you can go almost anywhere in downtown Tokyo. Therefore understanding subway system is a key to travel in downtown Tokyo smoothly. First of all, please see the all subway lines in the map below.
As you see, there are so many lines. As long as you know which station you need to go, you will be okay. I think some of you worry about language and it is very hard to remember station name. But in Tokyo subway system, all station is shown by code. Please see the full subway map at the link below:
As you see the map, all stations have code, like “M17” for Tokyo station. This is shown at the station too. I wrote about these signage at the other post. If you worry about Japanese, please refer the post below:
Signage and announcement in the station and train
You may have already noticed that different name stations are located at same place. For example, Yurakucho and Hibiya are same location and you can transfer these subway lines very easily. We can find same thing in JR and subway stations, like Hamamatsucho and Daimon, Mita and Tamachi.
Two subway operation companies
Actually there are two different subway companies, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. There are many kinds of subway passes available. Before choosing the deal, you have to know these subway companies.
First, Tokyo Metro operates nine subway lines. Please see the map below.
Toei Subway is operated by Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Bureau of Transportation. It has four lines and the network is much smaller than Tokyo Metro. Please see the map below:
Toei Subway operates only four lines but Oedo line gives you direct access to Tsukiji Market. Tsukijishijo station is the nearest station to get there. And Asakusa line is very useful because this subway line gives you inter-connected through service with Keisei line from Narita and Keikyu line from Haneda. I will tell you this shared track service later.
Now I would like to show you subway deals.
Tokyo Subway Ticket
This covers both subway lines, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. This is the best deal for subway in Tokyo. Please see the link below to find more information:
Tokyo Subway Ticket (unlimited subway ride pass)
Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro Lines Common One-Day Economy Pass
This covers both Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. The coverage is exactly same as Tokyo Subway Ticket above. But the price is a bit higher. It is 1000 yen for one day. Only one day pass is available. This pass can be purchased at any subway subway stations. You can purchase it at even vending machine.
Average subway fare is around 200 yen. If you make 5 or more trips by subway, this pass is cheaper than single fare or using IC card, like Pasmo, Suica.
Toei One-Day Economy Pass
This deal covers Toei subway lines and other public transportation by Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The price is 700 yen for one day. If you make 4 or more subway rides, it is paid off. But you can take only 4 subway lines.
Tokyo Metro 1-Day Open Ticket
This deal covers all lines of Tokyo Metro 9 lines. The price is 600 yen for 24 hours. This deal has bigger coverage area than Toei subway deal above but the price is cheaper. You may be able to get the worth by 3 subway rides.
Other deals
There are some combined deals, like JR and subway, airport access train and subway.
Tokyo One-Day Free Ticket, Tokyo Tour Ticket, Tokyo Free Kippu, Tokyo Combination Ticket
This deal is called by several different names but it is same. This covers all subway lines and JR lines in Tokyo 23 wards. So it is combined of Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro Lines Common One-Day Economy Pass (1000 yen) and Tokyo Tokunai Pass (750 yen). But the price of this deal is 1590 yen. Actually this is not easy to get the worth of this pass. You have to make train trip at least 8 times. If you visit many places in one day and need to take both subway and JR trains, this pass will work. Otherwise this is not recommended. You may find the detailed information and conditions at JR East official site.
Airport access ticket and subway pass combination deal
There are many types of deals for travelers who arrive at Haneda and Narita airport. Keisei railway (Narita), Keihin Kyuko Railway (Haneda) and Limousine bus (Narita/Haneda) offers transportation to downtown Tokyo and subway pass combination deal. Please find more information at Tokyo Metro official site.
Inter-connected through service (shared track)
There are many many train lines in Greater Tokyo. And also many train companies share the track for the commuter’s convenience. Since trains come from outside city go through subway into the center of Tokyo, commuters can get the work place by minimum transfer. This is “Inter-connected through service”. This makes you be confused. For example, JR train goes through subway line and JR train run on subway track as subway train. Do you understand what I mean? If you cannot understand it at this point. it is okay. I would like to show you some inter-connected services in this chapter. If you understand these services, you can get the place where you want quickly and less transfers.
Narita – Asakusa – Ginza – Shinagawa – Haneda route
This route is probably most useful route for overseas travelers. Keisei Railway, Toei Subway Asakusa line and Keihin Kyuko Railway share the track. Some train connect Natita airport and Haneda airport directly via Oshiage (Tokyo Skytree), Asakusa, Higashi-Ginza, Sengakuji and Shinagawa. If you stay the place along subway Asakusa line, such as Asakusa, Ginza, this route takes you the place to stay directly.
Ikebukuro – Shinjuku – Shibuya – Osaki – Tokyo Teleport (Odaiba) – Shin Kiba route
This is the easiest way to get Odaiba from Ikebukuro, Shinjuku and Shibuya. JR Saikyo line train runs on same route as Yamanote line to Osaki. (But Saikyo line train skips several station on Yamanote line.) JR Saikyo line train goes through Rinkai line to Shin-Kiba via Tokyo Teleport (Odaiba). Rinkai line is not JR line but it is operated as a part of Saikyo line. All JR Saikyo line train run on Rinkai line.
But Rinkai line is covered by only Tokyo Wide Pass. Other JR deals do not cover Rinkai line.
Toride – Kitasenju – Otemachi – Meiji Jingu – Yoyogi Uehara – Hon Atsugi – Hakone Yumoto route
JR train, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Odakyu Railway share the track. When you go to Hakone, Odakyu Railway is very convenient. Odakyu Railway has limited express train “Romancecar” that depart from Shinjuku. But a few Romancecar depart from Kitasenju and goes through Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line until Yoyogi-Uehara. You may find the timetable at the link below:
Odakyu Railway Romancecar timetable between Kitasenju and Hakone-Yumoto
But if you intend to use Hakone Free Pass, you have to purchase the pass in advance because this pass is sold at Odakyu Railway station. You cannot purchase it at any subway stations. In this case, you have to purchase Hakone Free Pass from Yoyogi-Uehara. 2 days pass is 5140 yen and 3 day pass is 5640 yen. This does not include subway fare. You can purchase subway ticket to Yoyogi-Uehara. On the way back, you can pay extra charge for subway when you exit subway station. You can show Hakone Free Pass and subway station staff can understand you need to pay the fare from Yoyogi-Uehara.
How to access to major spots in Tokyo by train
I would like to show you the nearest station to major sightseeing spots in downtown Tokyo. All places below are shown on the map below:
Akihabara
Akihabara is sometimes called “Akiba”. It is very well-known as the center of Otaku (crazy fun) culture, electronics and anime.
Nearest station
- JR Akihabara
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Akihabara
- Toei Subway Shinjuku line Iwamotocho
Iwamotocho station is not located in the center of Akihabara. But it is only 5 minutes away from JR and Hibiya line Akihabara station. You can access to Akihabara easily.
Recommended walking tour [AD]
Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour
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Asakusa
Nearest station
- Tokyo Metro Ginza line Asakusa
- Toei Subway Askausa line Asakusa
- Tobu Railway Asakusa
All stations are located in the center of Asakusa. Senso-ji temple is very closed from these stations.
Please see the post below to find more information about access to Asakusa:
Ghibli Museum
Nearest station
- JR Mitaka
Please see the detail information at the link below:
Complete access guide to Ghibli Museum from Tokyo and Shinjuku.
Ginza
Nearest station
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line Ginza
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line Yurakucho
- Tokyo Metro Ginza line Ginza
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Ginza
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Hibiya
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Higashi-Ginza
- Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line Yurakucho
- Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line Ginza-Itchome
- Toei Subway Asakusa line Higashi-Ginza
- JR Yurakucho
There are many stations in Ginza area. Even if you have only JR deals, you can access to Ginza from Yurakucho station very easily.
Harajuku
Nearest station
- JR Harajuku
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line Meiji-Jingumae
- Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin line Meiji-Jingumae
Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae stations are located at same place as JR Harajuku.
Imperial Palace
Nearest station
- JR Tokyo
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line Otemachi
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line Otemachi
- Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line Otemachi
- Tokyo Metro Tozai Otemachi
- Toei Subway Mita line Otemachi
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line Nijubashimae
- Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line Sakuradamon
- Toei Subway Mita line Otemachi
Imperial Palace is a huge place and you can access from many stations. You should check which part of Imperial Palace you will visit before you go.
Odaiba
Nearest station
- Yurikamome Odaiba-Kaihinkoen
- Yurikamome Daiba
- TWR Rinkai line Tokyo-Teleport
There is no subway and JR stations in this area. Any subway and JR deals do not cover Odaiba area. Only Tokyo Wide Pass by JR covers Rinkai line to get Odaiba. Yurikamome has one day pass but it is too expensive to have only round trip to Odaiba from Shinbashi.
If you have Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA or other major IC card, you can use it to take both Rinkai line and Yurikamome.
Roppongi
Nearest station
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Roppongi
- Toei Subway Oedo line Roppongi
Shibuya
Nearest station
- JR Shibuya
- Tokyu Railway Shibuya
- Tokyo Metro Ginza line Shibuya
- Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line Shibuya
- Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin line Shibuya
Shibuya is one of the hub stations in Tokyo. There are five stations but actually four station because Tokyu Railway (not Tokyo Railway) share the track with subway.
Tokyu Railway Denentoshi line – Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line
Tokyu Railway Toyoko like – Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin line
Shinjuku
Nearest station
- JR Shinjuku
- Odakyu Railway Shinjuku
- Keio Railway Shinjuku
- Toei Subway Oedo line Shinjuku
- Toei Subway Oedo line Shinjuku-Nishiguchi
- Toei Subway Shinjuku line Shinjuku
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line Shinjuku-Nishiguchi
- Seibu Railway Seibu-Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the busiest station in the world.
Seibu Railway and Keio Railways are not shown in the map. These are major private railway lines in Tokyo.
Suibu-Shinjuku station is a bit away from other Shinjuku stations.
Keio Railway has two stations in Shinjuku. This railway shares the track with Toei Subway Shinjuku line at one of these Shinjuku stations.
Recommended walking tour [AD]
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All-in-one bar hopping tour. Drinks & Foods are included. so, you can come to the tour empty-handed.
Check the details.
Shiodome
Nearest station
- Yurikamome Shiodome
- Yurikakome Shinbashi
- JR Shinbashi
- Toei Subway Asakusa line Shinbashi
- Tokyo Metro Ginza line Shinbashi
Shiodome area is connected with Shinbashi station by shopping arcade. It is 10 minutes away from Shinbashi by walk.
Tokyo Disney Resort (Disneyland and DisneySea)
Nearest station
- JR Maihama
The entrance of Disneyland is very close from Maihama station. You can also access to the gate of DisneySea by walk. But it is about 15 minutes walk away. You may take Tokyo Disney Resort Line (Monorail) to get these entrance.
Tokyo Disney Resort Line (official site)
You also can find some more information about Disneyland at the link below:
Tokyo Dome City
Nearest station
- JR Suidobashi
- Toei Subway Mita line Suidobashi
- Toei Subway Mita line Kasuga
- Toei Subway Oedo line Kasuga
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line Korakuen
- Tokyo Metro Namboku line Korakuen
You can also find the access information at Tokyo Dome City official site.
Tokyo Skytree
Nearest station
- Tobu Railway Skytree
- Tobu Railway Oshiage
- Keisei Railway Oshiage
- Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line Oshiage
- Toei Subway Asakusa line Oshiage
There are actually three stations because of shared track.
Tobu Railway – Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line
Keisei Railway – Toei Subway Asakusa line
There are only two “Oshiage” station. If you go to Tobu Railway Oshiage station, that is also Tokyo Metro Hazomon line Oshiage station. If you go to Keisei Railway Oshiage station, it is Toei Subway Asakusa line Oshiage station.
Tobu Railway has two stations near Tokyo Skytree. You can access from these two stations.
Tsukiji Market
Nearest station
- Toei Subway Oedo line Tsukiji-Shijo
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Tsukiji
You can access from both stations. But if you want to go to the inside of market, Tsukiji-Shijo station is located just next to the market and much closer than Tsukiji station. If you go to Tsukiji to eat fresh seafood, you can access from both stations easily.
Ueno Park
Nearest station
- JR Ueno
- Keisei Railway Keisei-Ueno
- Tokyo Metro Ginza line Ueno
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya line Ueno
Ueno is also one of the hub stations in Tokyo. But it is much easier than other hub stations, like Tokyo and Shinjuku. All stations are located in same place. Ueno Park is located just next to the station.
Comments
Hi Takeshi,
So if I get 2 of the Tokyo subway tickets (24 hr.) I don’t actually need buy the Suica or Pasmo prepaid card , right?
Or should I still get a Suica for other uses (Osaka, Hiroshima or Kyoto)??
Thanks again!
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Even if you have subway pass, you cannot take JR train. If you are okay with taking subway only, you don’t need to buy. But please make sure your plan and what train you need to take.
Suica can be used in Osaka and Kyoto. You can use it in Hiroshima too but there are many restrictions there.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Sorry, I forgot to ask this:
I am a bit confused with the Hakone visit.
If I go from Shinjuku and take the Odakyu limited express (Romancecar), do I stop at Hakone Yumoto or Odawara?
I looked at the map and these two are close by.
But which one is the main point to get out to see the Mt. Fuji and vicinity?
What is the difference taking this Odakyu limited express vs. taking the Odawara line express?
Is it better to see Mt. Fuji from Hakone side, or Kawaguchiko side?
Thank you again.
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
You can use Suica or Pasmo. But it’s not the right choice to get Fuji or Hakone. If you go to Hakone, you can use Hakone Free Pass. And express bus is the best way to get Lake Kawaguchi. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
If you want to just see Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is better. You can see Mt. Fuji from Hakone. But you have to go to Lake Ashi area in Hakone. You have to take train and bus or train, bus and cable car to get there.
If you take Odakyu Romancecar, you can get Hakone-Yumoto directly. If you take common Odakyu express, you have to change the train at Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto. And also Romancecar is much nicer accommodation. Express is a sort of commute train but you don’t need to pay extra for seat fee.
Kanazawa and Snow Monkey in one day is not impossible but not recommended. If you really really want to do it, you can go ahead. But you may get Kanazawa around 15:00 in my estimation. You will not have many hours to see Kanazawa until dusk.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Juliet,
One more thing.
I have visited Snow Monkey Park in February. Please see the link below to find the trip report.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/trip-report/2016-winter-tohoku-chubu-chugoku/trip-to-tohoku-chubu-and-chugoku-in-2016-winter-part-9-visit-snow-monkey-park-in-nagano.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
I am so glad to read you went to see those Snow monkeys in February!
They do look adorable from the link you sent to me.
Your report is very interesting and informative…..thanks!
This Nagano Railway’s limited express train called “Snow Monkey”. …..it also go to Nagano station other than the regular express bus??
You visited Kanazawa and snow monkeys!
Was it very hectic?
Ah, I must remembered to buy that snow monkey pass at Nagano!
But I hope they come out in summer when I go in August!
I read that sometimes they may not be seen in summer.
Then it will be wasting my trip to Nagano.
I wish I can go in the winter months, but as of now my schedule does not permit.
I really need to make a Winter Japan trip again later!
By then I will be more experienced with the transportation of Japan.
As of now, I am still freaked out with whether I am going to get lost in Japan…such as taking the wrong trains! So many trains!
It is like taking a 3 credit hour course in “Japan transportation” and am getting a “F” in the course!
Hey Takeshi, thanks for all your advice and time answering my countless questions….truly appreciate it.
I may still have more questions before I leave, so please bear with me.
Arigato!
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Nagano railway connects Nagano station and Yudanaka station. As I wrote, you need to take a bus from Yudanaka station to Snow Monkey Park. Express bus is much better option for the tourists. I love train and I don’t care about spending extra minutes. That was why I took the train on the way back.
I started from Kanazawa but I departed from Kanazawa early morning. So I did not spend any time in Kanazawa when I visited Snow Monkey Park. I visited several places in Kanazawa one day before. That is why I don’t recommend you to visit Kanazawa and Snow Monkey Park in same day.
I have never been to Snow Monkey Park in summer time. So I have no idea how much you can see monkeys there. Just cross the fingers.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Need your advice on this.
I may just make a day trip to Nagano (then back to Tokyo in evening) and perhaps skipping Kanazawa altogether if it is really too crazy to add it into the day trip.
So that means later I will just take the Hikari at 9.33 am from Tokyo directly to Takayama (stay 1 night).
Hyperdia says it arrives about 14:09
Wow! The journey is about 3 and half hours!
Then I check into my ryokan and dumped my luggage there.
And go and visit Shirakawago.
Spend about 3 hours there and come back to Takayama.
But I looked at the Nohi bus schedule and it seemed not that many buses around that time leaving Takayama around 14:00 – 15:00 something for Shirakawago.
Now, will this be possible to do Shirakawago on the day I arrive in Takayama?
Or should I only visit it the next day after check out of ryokan?
But then I may need to rush too if I need to be back in Takayama to take the Wide Hida to Kyoto!
What is my best option to see Shirakawago…..on day of arrival or next day after check out??
Thank you again,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Why don’t you leave Tokyo one hour earlier? If you catch 8:33 departure Hikari, you will be Takayama at 13:10. (By the way, it takes 4.5 hours from Tokyo to Takayama, not 3.5 hours.)
If you arrive Takayama at 13:10, you can catch 13:50 Nohi bus to Shirakawago. You can make 2.5 hours in Shirakawago until the last bus at 17:30 from Shirakawago to Takayama. I believe this is the best option.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Yes, I think your suggestion is very good!
If I catch the 8.33 am Hikari, will I be caught in rush hours?
I am moving with all my luggage, so will they be able to get into the train?
Gosh, the journey is 4 hours. It is really long!
Is Hikari the only train I can take with JR pass?
Also, just in case if I cannot get anyone to help me to get the bus tickets in Tokyo, can I get them from the Nagano station?
I am going to try calling the Nohi bus myself when in Tokyo.
But if there is communication problem with English then I need someone to call for me.
By the way, if I skip Kanazawa, will I be missing out on anything really really interesting that I will later regret?
Also regarding the 24 hr, or 48 hr. subway pass in Tokyo, I like to double check whether the pass is activated on the day it is bought, or on the day when I first ride the subway?
Actually I think the Suica is better as it is more flexible than the 24 hr. or 48 hr. subway pass.
Can the Suica or Pasmo be bought at Narita?
I read some people get a personal Suica card with their names on the card? Is there any difference other than having your name on it……more money???
Thanks again for your guidance!
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
You will be in rush hour. Train is super crazy. But you have no choice if you want to maximize your time in Takayama. Otherwise take taxi from hotel to Tokyo station. I don’t know the fare but you can ask your hotel and think about it.
You can take Hikari or Kodama only by JR pass. But Kodama is much slower than Hikari.
Nohi bus can speak English.
About Kanazawa, I say yes and no. It’s hard to say because it depends on your taste.
When you start using subway pass, it’s start to count 24 or 48 hours, not when you purchase it.
You can purchase Suica at Narita. I have no idea about Pasmo.
Personal suica is for residents. You can purchase it but it’s like suica card with point card at some stores. I don’t think it’s very useful for you.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Yes, I already plan to take a taxi to zoom over to Tokyo station.
Actually, I am staying around Ginza, but still I don’t want to waste time walking when I am in a rush.
If it is rush hour around the 8.30 am time, I think I will have to take the 9.30 train.
I am worried about the big crazy jam in the train as I am moving with my luggage.
This will be too hectic.
By the way, I do not even see the 8.33 am train on hyperdia (this is for Aug. 18th)!!
So that means I arrive around 2 pm in Takayama.
I will try to take the bus at 14:30 to Shirakawago.
Arrive there at 15:20 pm!
Say I spend about 2 hours or so, then take the last bus at 17:30 back to Takayama.
But I need to check with you on this:
If it buy the bus ticket (in Tokyo) for the 14:30 pm bus (Takayama-Shirakawago), and then upon arrival at Takayama, I find I cannot make it to the trip for 14:30 pm bus, can I use the same bus ticket to go to Shirakawago the next day?
Will the Nohi bus allow that since the ticket is not used yet, so it should still be valid, right?
I just noticed that the the Nohi bus reservation centre number is:
81-577-32-1688
If in Tokyo, do I need to dial the digit “81” in front of the number?
Please advise.
Thank you again for everything,
Juliet
Sorry Takeshi,
I forgot to double check something with you.
I am getting a bit confused with the transportation to the Hakone/Fuji area, as I was scanning through some notes I made!
Are these the same:
From Shinjuku station:
1) The Odakyu Railway (limited express Romancecar)
2) The Odawara line express
#1 is best recommended?
Or the Hikari shinkansen from Tokyo station to Odawara, then from there we need to change or transfer again to Hakone Yumoto…….this is wrong??
Many thanks!
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
I could find 8:33 Shinkansen on hyperdia:
http://www.hyperdia.com/en/cgi/en/search.html?dep_node=TOKYO&arv_node=TAKAYAMA&via_node01=NAGOYA&via_node02=&via_node03=&year=2016&month=08&day=16&hour=08&minute=17&search_type=0&search_way=&transtime=undefined&sort=0&max_route=5&faretype=0&ship=off&sprnozomi=off&lmlimit=null&search_target=route&facility=reserved&sum_target=7
Anyway if you purchase a ticket for 14:30 bus, that means your seat is secured and you have to take 14:30 bus.
When you call, you don’t need 81 because it’s country number. But you have to add 0. The phone number is shown in Nohi bus PDF timetable and now online booking in English is available too.
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/english/highwaybus/shirakawago.pdf
Odakyu express is totally different from Odakayu Romancecar. Odakyu Express is a sort of commute train. You cannot book your seat and you may need to stand up. It’s same type of trains in downtown Tokyo or subway.
If you take Odakyu Romancecar, your seat is secured and can get Hakone-Yumoto directly from Shinjuku. If you take Shinkansen, you have to change train at Odawara and cannot get Hakone directly.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Thanks for your quick response……appreciate it!
Ah, now my mind is more clear on how to get to Hakone/Mt. Fuji area.
I double checked hyperdia for 8/18 from Tokyo-Takayama, and found the 8.33 am train.
But I am still very worried about the rush hours as I am moving with ALL my luggage.
Without any luggage, it is not a problem at all.
I may be stepping on some people and get dirty looks from them!
Say if I take the 9.33 am train and get into Takayama around 14:09, and if it is crazy rushing for the bus to Shirakawago, I am thinking of visiting Shirakawago the next day.
Say if on 8/18 stay in Takayama.
Explore the place that day.
Check out of ryokan next day 8/19 by 9.00 am or 10 am.
take bus from Takayama – Shirakawago…….either:
1) 9:50 am (arrive in Shirakawago 10:40 am), or
2) 10:50 am (arrive 11:40 am)
By the way, I noticed from the schedule, these two buses no reservations required???
So that will give me 2-3 hours there.
Then take the 13:35 pm bus from Shirakawago…..get back into Takayama at 14:25 pm.
Are the above times correct??
Hyperdia says the Limited express Wide view Hida 36 from Takayama – Kyoto (8/19) leaves at 15:35 pm, so I will still have enough time to get my luggage back from Ryokan.
What do you think of above? Please advise.
By the way, where do I find the schedule for the express bus that leaves Nagano station for the Snow monkey park??
I am visiting Nagano on another day (day trip).
The Kagayaki leaves Tokyo around 9:20 am for Nagano and arrives about 10:45 am.
But I need some time to get the snow monkey pass, etc. (in case I get lost!).
So how often is that express bus (Nagaden bus?)??
This bus does go directly to the snow monkey park entrance, right?
I was also scanning through the Nagano Dentetsu train to Yudanaka……45 mins.
Should I stick to the express bus or this train?
Arigato!
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
As long as you see it on Nohi bus schedule, that is correct. There are a few buses that you can take without reservation. But that means you may not be able to take that bus because you cannot reserve it. I have no idea how busy it will be. So the choice is yours. And you can go there whichever 18th or 19th. This is your choice too. I don’t think it’s much different.
You may find the timetable to snow monkey park at the link below:
http://www.snowmonkeyresorts.com/access/
I think I have showed you how to get Snow Monkey Park before. Please read it carefully again.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/trip-report/2016-winter-tohoku-chubu-chugoku/trip-to-tohoku-chubu-and-chugoku-in-2016-winter-part-9-visit-snow-monkey-park-in-nagano.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
I wanted to check with you on that Totoro house in the Aichi Perfecture.
Sorry, it is getting a little messy here.
I was trying to google and research a bit into that and read that I need to take Higashiyama subway line from Nagoya to somewhere called Fujigoaka.
Then limino to Aichichikyuhaku-kinen-koen.
This limino is some sort of monorail.
This Totoro house is supposedly in a park called Moricoro Park??
I am not sure if I am right as I cannot find other information.
I am wondering if you have information on exactly how to get there.
Thank you again for your time.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Yes. It’s in Moricoro Park.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
I am planning to visit Japan for about a week in December (probably around Dec. 22nd – 28th).
My main goal is to visit the Snow Monkeys in Nagano, and also Mt. Fuji.
I am thinking of a couple of day trips from Tokyo for Nagano and Mt. Fuji
So I will be based in Tokyo where the hotel is as I do not want to move around too much with luggages, especially in the winter.
And I read that Karuizawa is an interesting town in the Nagano, so might drop by to have a look.
I am not planning to get a JR pass as I would not be traveling far out of Tokyo (long distance) too much.
If I do not get a JR pass, would the shinkansen ticket cost a lot for round trip from Tokyo-Nagano-Tokyo?
Please also advise the best and most convenient way to get to the Snow Monkeys upon arrival at Nagano station.
I read one can take the bus directly to the Snow Monkeys entrance.
Or take some subway from Nagano to get there?
Would Karuizawa be possible to drop by after Snow Monkeys, if not too far?
Lastly, for Mt. Fuji, I am wondering whether it is best to go to Hakone or just go around Lake Kawaguchiko to get an excellent view (considering it is winter).
Logistically, which is a better itinerary above if want to enjoy the beautiful scenery (and not climbing to the top)?
What would be the best affordable travel pass to Mt. Fuji (Hakone v.s Lake Kawaguchiko)?
I appreciate very much your advice on the above.
Thank you for your time.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
If you ride Shinkansen by regular fare, it costs more than 16,000 yen for round trip. JR East pass Nagano Niigata is sold at 17,000 yen. If you use this pass for other trip, you can get the worth.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/jr-east-pass-niigata-and-nagano-flex-5-days-pass-in-14-days-period-to-cover-kanto-region-nagano-and-niigata.html
You can use this pass to get Lake Kawaguchi or Hakone but this pass covers partially. Please see the link below. You may find the other deal too:
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
If you just want to see Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is better place. If you want to see Mt. Fuji and enjoy other things, Hakone is better.
At last, please see the link below to find the info about trip to Snow Monkey Park.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/trip-report/2016-winter-tohoku-chubu-chugoku/trip-to-tohoku-chubu-and-chugoku-in-2016-winter-part-9-visit-snow-monkey-park-in-nagano.html
You can drop by Karuizwa if you are okay to spend a couple of hours there.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Thank you so much for your reply.
It sounds good to get the JR East pass Nagano as it is Yen 17,000 and allow s a bit more coverage of areas.
By any chance do you know where to get it online (in English)?
But the pass only provides partial coverage to :
a) Hakone
b) Lake Kawaguchi
So how far does this pass take me if I go either of the above places?
Does it mean I need to get the Tokyo Wide pass for travel to parts of Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi ?
Or is it more practical and convenient to take:
1) the train from Shinjuku to Lake Kawaguchi. Otsuki is the gateway, so take the Limited Express Azusa or Kaiji from Shinjuku?
2) take the Romancecar (Odakyu Railway trains ) at Shinjuku to go directly to Hakone from Tokyo?
Sorry I am getting a little confused as so many different trains in Japan.
Based on your personal experience to the Snow Monkeys, is it more convenient to take the express bus from the Snow Monkeys back to Nagano station, or the train (Nagaden express snow monkey train) at Yudanaka station to Nagano?
Is this train fare included in the snow monkey pass?
When you said “The Snow Monkey 1 day pass is sold at 2,900 yen and it includes round trip fare and admission to enter Snow Monkey Park”, is the round trip fare the bus fare to Snow Monkeys?
Also, are all stores and attractions closed during Christmas time?
Will traffic or big crowds be a big issue around that time?
And does it snow a lot around late December in Japan?
I am just trying to get a feel of how cold it can get.
Once again, thanks so much for your time in addressing my questions.
I appreciate your kind help.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Please see the link below about JR East Pass.
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/eastpass_n/index.html?src=gnavi
When you go to Lake Kawaguchi, just add the fare for Otsuki – Kawaguchiko.
You may use Hakone Free Pass if you like. Even though you need to add more, it’s more convenient.
Snow Monkey pass covers both express bus and train/local bus. All trips which I made in my trip were covered.
Christmas is not holiday in Japan. In Japan, New Years season are holiday. Most of stores and restaurants are closed early in 31 Dec and most of them are closed in New Year’s day. Please see the link below about peak season of transports in the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/2017-busiest-period-to-travel-by-train-tips-to-book-your-seat-in-even-busy-period.html
Regarding snow, it depends on the place. In Tokyo, usually not. Nagano and Fuji area will have it.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Thanks for your reply.
By the way, can the JR East Pass Nagano be used also for the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route on the Hokuriku Shinkansen?
Logistically, is it reasonable and convenient to visit this Alpine route after Snow Money?
Will it be too rushing and not enough time?
How far is Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route from Nagano?
If time is not sufficient, would it be more worthy and interesting to visit Karuizwa or the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route?
Thanks very much again for your time in addressing my questions.
Appreciate very much.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
JR East Pass does not cover Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. You need to have Tateyama Kurobe option ticket beside JR East Pass.
http://www.jrtateyama.com/e/
It’s about 2 hours away from Nagano to Ogizawa where is the gateway to Alpine route.
https://www.alpen-route.com/en/timetable/
After Alpine route, you need to take train from Toyama. Toyama is outside coverage area of JR East Pass. You need to pay about 5000 yen for base fare and Hokuriku Shinkansen surcharge to go back to Joetsu-Myoko. It’s the border station of JR East Pass. It’s two stations away from Nagano by Hokuriku Shinkansen. You can purchase this extra ticket and Tateyama Kurobe option ticket when you purchase JR East Pass.
In my opinion, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is much more attractive than Karuizawa if you visit before the end of October.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
HI Takeshi,
Thanks again for the information.
By the way, do you know if there are any shinkansen machines in Tokyo station which accept credit cards for payment of the JR rail passes?
Also, is there JR East Nagano office in Tokyo station where I can reserve seats?
Other than the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano, can I go on any other shinkansen (like the Kagayaki or Hakutata) to Nagano (for the same price of Yen 17,000)?
I read one can take the express train to Nagano from Shinjuku, but longer time.
Is this true?
Please advise whether this option is feasible or not.
Thank you again.
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
Most of ticket machine accept credit card. But if you intend to purchase JR East Pass, you cannot purchase it at the machine. You need to go to the window. I think you get the link of JR East pass in previous reply. Please refer it.
You can reserve your seat at any major JR station. In downtown Tokyo, most of station have a reservation window which is called “midori no madoguchi”. You can book it there. Or you can reserve your seat when you get JR East Pass.
You can take any Shinkansen trains by JR East pass.
I think someone talked about other express trains which are Azusa and Shinano via Matsumoto.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/limited-express-azusa-super-azusa-and-kaiji.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/shinano.html
If you are interested in visiting Matsumoto, you can take this route. These trains are covered by JR East Pass. But if you take this route, you cannot save any costs. JR East pass is still the best choice.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Ok, thanks again for your kind advice.
Something just ring a bell in my mind.
I am only going to be in Japan for about 6 to 7 days.
A JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) is valid for 14 days and can be used for any 5 days within that 2 weeks.
But if I am only in Japan for just about a week, can I still buy this pass outside Japan ( or even in Japan), if my period of stay in Japan noted in the passport is shorter than the validity period of the pass??
I am a bit confused here.
Please advise.
Thank you so much.
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
You can purchase JR East pass online or at the window after you arrive in Japan. But price in Japan is a bit higher. Once again, please see the link of JR East Pass.
As long as you enter Japan as a short term visitor, you can purchase a pass. It doesn’t matter how many days you will stay.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks so much.
It is good to know that I can sill get the JR East pass, even if my stay is less than a week.
I am planning to get it online (Yen 16,000) from the link you sent me earlier.
You mentioned previously that if I go to Mt. Fuji via Lake Kawaguchi, I can just add the fare for Otsuki – Kawaguchiko.
But if I decide to go to Hakone, can I use the JR East pass to cover part of journey?
If so, up to which point?
And what extra ticket do I need to buy to reach Hakone for Mt. Fuji from Tokyo or Shinjuku station?
Since I may only spend a few hours or half a day there, I am not thinking of getting the Hakone Free pass.
Although may be more convenient, it may not worth the price for a short visit.
Do you think so?
Very grateful for all your helpful advice.
Best,
Juliet
Hello Takeshi,
I am wondering if you know if there is anything wrong with the link you sent to me previously to get the JR East pass Nagano.
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/eastpass_n/index.html?src=gnavi
I clicked on “Purchasing online”, and it takes me to this link below:
http://www.eastjapanrail.com/#/product/JR%20EAST%20PASS%20-%20NAGANO%20NIIGATA%20AREA
When I try to get the JR pass east , it asked me to enter the number of passengers.
I put in 2 to get the prices, but instead got the following error:
“date wrong format”
Even though I do not see any dates showing up.
No boxes to ask me for any dates!
I tried many times, and the same error message about “date wrong format” keeps showing up.
Do you have any idea what is going on?
Thank you so much.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
I have tried it several times and I saw same issue. I have no idea about it. Please contact to ACP rail which is JR East official seller. You can find the email address and phone number at the bottom of the page.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
I did drop them an e-mail. But no reply.
The link still did not work.
By the way, can I just take some express bus directly from Shinjuku to Mt. Fuji (Lake Kawaguichi area), instead of the train?
Will the bus journey be too long?
Thank you.
Best,
Juliet
Hi Juliet,
You can take an express bus to get Lake Kawaguchi. Please see the links below:
jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
http://bus-en.fujikyu.co.jp/highway/detail/id/1
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi there,
This is a great website and is very detailed and thorough thank you so much! I am really debating if the JR rail pass is the best option or not for me, this is my brief itinerary below and I was curious is there is a more cost effective pass that will help me get around?
Day 1-4: Tokyo- major attractions to visit like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, DisneySea, and a day trip to Hakone
Day 5-7: Kyoto and visiting temples and tourist attractions
Day 8-10: Osaka and major attractions
Is the JR pass the best option or is there something more cost effective for this brief itinerary, my major concern is the train cost from Tokyo- Kyoto- Osaka.
I really appreciate your assistance.
Hi Nancy,
JR pass is not a good choice for Tokyo – Osaka/Kyoto one way traveler. Please see the link below. You can basically follow this sample.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/basic-itinerary-of-tokyo-kyoto-and-osaka-in-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
My husband and my two children are going to Japan for 13 days. I would appreciate your feedback.
Day One – Arrival from KIX at noon will stay in Shin Osaka area
Day Two – Day trip to Nara
Day Three – Osaka
Day Four – To Kyoto, will stay near Shijo Station
Day Five – Kyoto
Day Six – Kyoto
Day Seven – To Tokyo
Day Eight – Day trip to Mt. Fuji (5th Station or perhaps Lake Kawaguchi)
Day Nine – Day trip to Kanazawa, Takayama and Shirakawago
Day Ten – Tokyo
Day Eleven – Disneyland
Day Twelve – Day trip to Kamakura, Yokohama
Day Thirteen – NRT Airport to home
Thank you!
Allison
Hi Allison,
You may use JR pass 7 days from day 3 to 9. I suggest you to switch day 2 and 3 because Shin-Osaka to Nara is covered by JR pass.
For day 1 and 2, you may use ICOCA and Haruka.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/icoca-and-haruka-ticket-very-flexible-and-good-deal-for-tourist-who-stay-in-kansai.html
ICOCA e-money covers the trip in Osaka in day 2.
On day 8, JR pass is still valid but it covers the trip to Fuji partially.
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
On day 9, you can use JR pass to get Kanazawa but the bus to Shirakawago is not covered. And it’s too tight to visit Takayama.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1-day/sample-itinerary-of-day-trip-to-kanazawa-and-shirakawago-from-tokyo.html
You can find the trip in Tokyo in the post above. And for trip to Yokohama and Kamakura, see the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/yokohama-and-kamakura-access-guide-find-the-right-deal-and-route-from-your-place-to-stay.html
At last, trip to Narita, there is no deals available. Only budget bus is very affordable.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/narita/the-list-of-deals-for-access-to-downtown-tokyo-from-narita-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks for the reply.
I would like to ask you another question, is it better and time saving if I go to Kanazawa and Shirakawago from Osaka and return to Kyoto on day four? Instead of going there from Tokyo on day nine ?
Thanks for your advice.
Allison
Hi Allison,
It’s not much different. Please see the links below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1-day/sample-itinerary-of-day-trip-to-kanazawa-and-shirakawago-from-osaka-or-kyoto.html
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1-day/sample-itinerary-of-day-trip-to-kanazawa-and-shirakawago-from-tokyo.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi takeshi,
Glad to have this website,it’s help a lot.
I and my family are planning to Tokyo this September,but we stay at matsudo,i find that matsudo station is not cover by tokunai,i would like to ask,which better to take tokunai or subway 3 days passes to travelling around Tokyo?
Hi Willy,
Subway pass is probably better because it covers more than JR Tokunai pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks for your reply. If I take subway,which station should I stopped? I see,there is matsudo station in JR Joban (not covered by tokunai,right?).
Hi Willy,
Ayase is the nearest subway station from Matsudo.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Can I use Toei Buses and Toei Subways in one full day when I purchase Toei One-Day Economy Pass? But this is not 24 hours pass?
How to use this pass in Toei Bus? (really just showing this pass to the bus driver?) Do all Toei Buses anounce or display the bus stop name before making every stop?
Can I purchase Toei One-Day Economy Pass in Sengakuji Station?
I consider to try Toei Bus because I’m afraid I will spend more time using the stairs, more time to reach the train stations and the train itself, including a chance to get confused inside the big train stations. Besides I hope to see more Tokyo from the street view. But I will use Toei subways to reach far places.
Thank you in advance,
Eddy.
Hi Eddy,
You can purchase it at any Toei subway station, such as Sengakuji. Actually I have never taken Toei bus before. Because subway is much faster. I understand you need to take stairs, escalators to enter and exit station. And also you may lose the way. But there are many many routes of bus and traffic is heavy in Tokyo. So I have never taken bus before in Tokyo. Bus may be faster than subway but I actually have no idea. You can take a bus by this pass. I think you can show your pass to take a bus. The pass is valid for one day, 0:00 to 23:59. As you think, it’s not 24 hours pass.
Sorry but that’s all I can tell.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
Actually I won’t consider to try Toei Bus if don’t find Toei Bus website. I think the website is very good and accurate to learn Toei Bus and the system. From the website I found Toei Bus is not faster than subway. But Toei Bus can reach so many spots in Tokyo, and much closer to the spot than subway. I just think combination of Toei Subway and Toei Bus is the best for my itinerary in Tokyo, and Toei One-Day Economy Pass is really the most suitable pass for me to explore Tokyo in one full day.
Thank you for your advice about Toei Bus and the confirmation to my questions.
Cheers,
Eddy
No problem, Eddy. Enjoy your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi takeshi..im planning on visiting japan this october..places i’d like to visit are yuzawa kogen, gunma, karuizawa and mt fuji..which pass is the best either jr tokyo wide pass or jr east pass? Kindly recommend ur suggestion and thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Sally,
Tokyo Wide Pass is better choice if you can complete these places in 3 days. The place where you want to visit are covered by Tokyo Wide Pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi-san,
My family will be traveling from Kanazawa station to Shin-Yokohama station. We have bought Hokuriku pass, but it doesn’t cover Yokohama. How do we use the pass to travel on the Shinkansen? Do we pay the additional fees at Kanazawa station? Or do we need to get off in Tokyo and add the trip to Yokohama? Your help is most appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Hi Peishan san,
You can pay extra when you exit at Yokohama station.
You will take Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa to Yokohama. And change rapid train to Yokohama at Tokyo station and you will pay only extra base fare. It costs around 500 yen one way. When you exit Yokohama station, show your pass. And they tell you how much you need to pay.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi.
First, thanks for the time and effort you put in to publish such a useful website. It is very helpful.
The question I have concerns the 72-hour Tokyo Subway Tickets. We will be in Tokyo for 6 days and I am wondering if it is possible to buy 2 tickets for each of us (4 tickets total) which would cover all the days we are there. I read your material and went to the Tokyo Metro link but did not find the answer.
Thanks you very much.
Hi David,
Yes you can. You can purchase it as many as you want.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
If i buy tokyo subway 1 day ticket in haneda airport by the time i lamded in japan,does it need to use in the same day, or we can use/activate it at anyday as long as we use it before expire date?
Since i might use it only on the lst day after my jr pass is ended.
And i’m not sure i will be going to bic camera or laox only to buy the ticket.
Thank you
Hi Miranti,
You can purchase it at Haneda and use it later days.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
I would like to ask about Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokyo Tokunai Pass). I want to go to Mt Takaosan ( take JR train to Takao Station and transfer to Keio line to Takaosanguchi station). I know JR line ends at Takao Station for this trip. I know the Tokunai pass doesn’t cover till Takao Station – from the website, I can see it covers till Nishi-Ogikubo station.
My question is can I still use this pass, and travel all the way to Takao station and pay the difference between Nishi-Ogikubo station to Takao station once I arrived in Takao Station ?
Reason I may want to use this pass is because, it still a saving for me. After Mount Takao, I will be travelling other places that covers by JR.
Please advise.
Thank you.
SK
Hi SK,
You can pay extra fare for Nishi-Ogikubo to Takao when you exit Takao station. Just show your Tokunai pass to station staff and they will let you know the extra fare.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks for the Information.
Cheers
No problem, SK.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com