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
Visit stores and game centers to fulfill your gaming fantasies — encounter classic and the lastest game culture. And experience an authentic Japanese maid cafe with guaranteed seating at Akihabara’s most popular maid cafe. Take part in a variety of Akihabara activities, ALL INCLUDED.
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]
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Explore the hidden bars in Shinjuku and enjoy eating local street food & drinks like locals with a friendly local food tour guide.
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,
My family are planning for our first trip late March to early April next year. We plan to stay in Tokyo for 5nights, Kanazawa for 3nights and Kyoto for 5nights. Do we need to get the 14day JR pass or the 7day will do?
While in Tokyo, we plan to do the city tour, Mt Fuji and Nikko heritage. Do we need to use the JR pass while in Tokyo? What is the best way to go to Matsumoto castle? From Kyoto, we plan to go to Hiroshima (per your sampled itinerary), arashiyama, universal. We plan to depart via Kansai airport.
Your input would be greatly appreciated.
Kind regards,
Liza
Hi Liza,
The best way to save your cost is using 7 days pass. And you should include the following trip in 7 days:
Tokyo-Kanazawa-Kyoto
Day trip to Hiroshima from Kyoto
Day trip to Nikko from Tokyo
Even if you don’t include day trip to Nikko in 7 days period, 7 days pass still works. But the saving is a bit. Total fares is not much different from 7 days pass. But 14 days pass is too expensive anyway.
You don’t need to use JR pass in Tokyo and subway pass is okay as you read the post above. You can find some deals from airport in the post above too.
You don’t need to rely on JR pass in Kyoto and Osaka. JR pass should be used for long day trip. You can use subway pass or city deals in Kyoto and Osaka too. Please see the links below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-choose-discount-railway-ticket-and-pass-in-kansai-area.html#Kyoto_area
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
You can use express bus or other to get Fuji. But if you can include the trip to Fuji in 7 days period, you can do it. But JR pass is not the best to get Fuji.
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
At last, please see the link below to find the route to Matsumoto.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-for-train-access-to-nagano-matsumoto-and-other-places-in-shinshu-and-surrounding-area.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi ,
Thanks for your comprehensive reply. Much appreciated. I’m glad to see this site. We shall follow your suggestions.
Japan here we come .
Arigato and cheers,
Liza
No worries, Liza.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hai Takeshi,
Can I use tokunai pass from kanamachi to shibuya?
Thanks
Hi Cindy,
Yes, you can.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Can you show the route if using tokunai pass? Because i cannot find it in hyperdia, thanks a lot
Hi Cindy,
Just go to Ueno and change to Yamanote line.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
First, thank you for all this helpful information. We are spending 5 nights in Tokyo (near Kokuritsukyogijo and Sendagaya stations), and then 7 nights in Kyoto (near Awata shrine, Westin Miyako, and Keage station). We plan to take shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto.
I think the 72-hour Tokyo subway pass will be a good deal for us, but I have further questions:
1) Should we buy Suica card in addition to the subway pass? We plan on doing a lot of sightseeing in both cities, and we love public transportation. Also, not having to deal with ticket machines for every trip is very appealing. Do you think we will get good use out of Suica card on JR trains, buses, or subways (after 72 hours has passed; can we use it in Kyoto subway too)? Any suggestion how much money we should put on the card? The maximum 10,000 yen? We can get a refund of unused money, correct?
2) My current plan for getting from Narita to our apartment in Tokyo is to take Keisei Sky Access (Access Express) toward Haneda, get off train at Daimon, and take Oedo line to Kokuritsukyogijo. The web page for the combo subway+Keisei ticket (http://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/value/airport_bus/index.html) only mentions the more expensive Skyliner train that goes to Ueno. Is that correct? Does this combo make any sense for us?
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Steve
Hi Steve,
1. Suica is a good idea. But you can purchase bus pass or subway pass in Kyoto.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
You can stay near subway station that is Keage. Kyoto sightseeing card is the best deal in my opinion. But you still can have Suica. JR and other non JR train are not covered by these subway deal anyway.
You don’t need to have much money in Suica. At this point, we don’t know how much money you will spend. You can add more fund (by 1000 yen) at the vending machine. You can add more fund in even Kansai area, such as Kyoto and Osaka. Most of JR stations in Kansai area have the vending machine that can be used by Suica.
2. This deal is not a good choice because you don’t intend to take Skyliner. Even if you pay single fare from Narita to Kokuritsu-Kyogijo, it costs 1380 yen. If you add one day subway pass on top of this cost, it’s still cheaper than Skyliner deal.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
After much squinting at maps and checking online literally for hours, I despair at learning with any certainty which station(s) to use for travel on a JR pass to: Nikko, Kamakura/Yokohama and Hokane. I am sure I can find my way to the stations from where I am staying reasonably close to Tokyo, Nihonbashi and Kayabacho stations in Chuo-ku. I will so much appreciate your help. Thanks!
Hi Malcolm,
You can start all trips from Tokyo station by JR pass. Please see the links below to find more info:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/how-to-access-to-nikko-from-tokyo-there-are-three-ways-from-tokyo-shinjuku-and-asakusa.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/yokohama-and-kamakura-access-guide-find-the-right-deal-and-route-from-your-place-to-stay.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-get-hakone-from-tokyo-compare-japan-railway-and-odakyu-lines.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/tokyo-station-guide-how-to-change-the-trains-shinkansen-narita-express-and-other-local-trains.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks so much! I’d already discovered what a greatly informative site you have. FYI, the reason for my question was that HyperDia would not recognize “Tokyo” when I tried repeatedly yesterday and earlier today. No problem now, though.
No worries, Malcolm.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi:
I’ll much appreciate your additional help. After many hours of trying to sort through options, I cannot seem to untangle the abundance of them consistent with my 20-day itinerary, shown below to indicate where we will spend each night:
–Arrive Tokyo
–Tokyo with three day trips, to Nikko, Kamakura and Hokane
–Tokyo
–Tokyo
–Tokyo
–Tokyo
–Tokyo
–Matsumoto (which it appears may be heaping too much on my plate?)
–Matsumoto, from which bus looks like most desirable option
–Takayama, including Shirakawa-go (probably day trip, though a bus from Matsumoto would pass through it and it would be nice, but logistically difficult, to break the travel there on the way to Takayama for the night)
–Takayama
–Kanazawa
–Kyoto with day trip to Nara and possibly evening in Osaka
–Kyoto
–Kyoto
–Kyoto
–Kobe with day trip to Himeji and evening in Osaka (likelier more efficient than going from Kyoto)
–Kobe
–Hiroshima via (!) Mayajima (backtracking early evening)
–Hiroshima
–Narita for night flight
The JR East Flex looks pretty good for Tokyo, and purchasing single tickets there and elsewhere probably would be fine when not covered by a pass. I also am intrigued by the Takayama – Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, the Hankyu Tourist Pass and the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass.
As you know some of these overlap and some of them have time restrictions that may not work for us. I hope I am not left with a three-week JR Pass (which is some 20,000 yen cheaper than taking trains without passes) as my best choice and so much welcome your advice, which I see will be excellent.
Regards,
Malcolm
Hi Malcolm,
I think you can use 14 days JR pass for the last 14 days (from trip to Matsumoto to the end).
You may use other rail pass for Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, Tokyo and trip from Narita. Please see the links below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/narita/the-list-of-deals-for-access-to-downtown-tokyo-from-narita-airport.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/tokyo-kanto-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-best-deal-and-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/world-heritage-destinations/how-to-access-to-nikko-from-tokyo-there-are-three-ways-from-tokyo-shinjuku-and-asakusa.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/yokohama-and-kamakura-access-guide-find-the-right-deal-and-route-from-your-place-to-stay.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you again, Takeshi.
I like your suggestions for our three-week trip arriving 9 October but would like to clarify. I believe that the price of two-week JR Pass is approximately Y45,528. For the JR East Pass (Tohoku Area), the cost runs Y22,000. Total: Y67,528. At the same time, a three-week JR Pass is Y58,305.
Do I assume your recommendation for two passes is based on the accessibility from Narita and then day trips to Nikko, Kamakura/Yokohama and Hokane with the JR East Pass? Either way, it looks as though we would have to give up regular metro rides, though we are big walkers anyway and certainly feel comfortable taking advantage of the advice you have written about the relatively small expense of buying tickets or passes in Tokyo.
Regarding Hokane, I believe I saw a reference (that I cannot locate now) from you for something like a Hokane “departure” free pass that excludes RT Tokyo. But I find on the Odakyu site (http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/) only a pass that includes transportation from Shinjuku. If so, my Flex pass would be redundant (maybe acceptably so?), though the appeal of lots of “free” travel around Mt. Fuji is considerable.
Finally, I am beginning to think that taking the train from Matsumoto to Takayama makes more sense (despite an extra half hour of travel time) than the bus there since I’ll be using the JR Pass those last two weeks, Once in Takayama, we would at some point take the bus (or bus tour?) RT to Shirakawa-go. Truth be told, I am beginning to wonder whether that village is not far too touristy for my taste. Do I not kind of “get it” from the photos and numerous souvenir shops and so on? (We live in Cambodia, where village life predominates.) I am especially eager to view the mountains and gather I’ll have time for that in and around Matsumoto. That last sentence is kind of a question.
I have to say, Takeshi, that you astonish me with your knowledge and speed. Without your help and advice, I would have jumped out a window by now.
Kind regards,
Malcolm
Hi Malcolm,
Both 21 days JR pass and JR East pass are not recommended.
For Nikko, as you probably have seen in my link, there is Tobu Railway deal available.
http://www.tobu.co.jp/foreign/en/pass/
Even though you have to go to Asakusa to take Tobu railway, this pass is the best because it covers local transportation, like bus in Nikko.
In Hakone, it’s same thing. If you use JR pass or JR East Pass, you can get Odawara. But you cannot use it in Hakone. Therefore Hakone Free Pass is the best choice.
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/hakone/
You can purchase it at Shinjuku and start using it there.
These choices are cheaper than JR East pass and much more useful in Nikko and Hakone.
Regarding train vs bus between Matsumoto and Takayama, bus is much faster. If you take a train, it’s covered by JR pass but trip time is at least 4 hours and you have to change the train at Nagoya. If you take a bus, it’s not covered but it’s much faster and it’s direct. Trip time is 2.5 hours. It’s not half an hour. It’s 1.5 hours faster than train.
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/english/highwaybus/matsumoto.pdf
But fare is 3190 yen. So you have to pay 3190 yen to get convenience and extra 1.5 hour at Takayama. The choice is yours.
Regarding Shirakawago, bus is not covered as you think. Please see the link below to find some info at the links below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-get-shirakawa-go-%E7%99%BD%E5%B7%9D%E9%83%B7.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/trip-report/2016-winter-tohoku-chubu-chugoku/trip-to-tohoku-chubu-and-chugoku-in-2016-winter-part-6-takaoka-to-shirakawago-via-himi-line-johana-line-and-shirakawago.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
I intend to visit the areas around Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, Akihabara, Ginza, Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Teleport in the span of two days in Tokyo. Should I buy the subway pass?
Also, if I use the Japan Rail Pass to get on a Saikyo Line train from Shibuya to Tokyo Teleport, how will I pay the extra fees, as the train runs on Rinkai Line? Thanks
Hi Marty san,
If you intend to use JR pass in Tokyo, subway pass is not required. Because you need to take subway to Tokyo Skytree only. You can get all places except Skytree and Teleport.
If you don’t intend to use JR Pass, you can use subway pass. But remember that JR trains is much easier to access to Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, Akihabara, Ginza (Yurakucho).
If you take Saikyo line to Tokyo Teleport by JR pass, you can pay extra for Rinkai line for Osaki to Tokyo Teleport when you exit at Tokyo Teleport station. You can show your JR Pass to station staff when you exit. You can pay the extra to him. Please check the fare for Rinkai line at the link below:
http://www.twr.co.jp/en/tabid/234/Default.aspx
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi. I’m going to buy the jprail pass this week. Two questions:
1. There is an online site to buy it?
2. Can I travel between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe with the jrpass?
Thanks.
Hi Siryx,
1. If you google it, you will find many. But I have never used it before, so I cannot recommend any companies.
2. Yes.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi-San,
Thank you for providing such a clear outline of the subway system!
Many years ago, we were able to buy 10-packs of subway tickets that provided a discount and was very flexible to use. Is this still available? If so, are there children’s versions and where r can I purchase? If I recall correctly, it was good on both Toei and Tokyo Metro.
Thank you so much!
Teresa
Hi Teresa san,
I think you mean this.
http://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/types/coupon/index.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi San,
I will be at Shimbashi taking the JR Tokaido Rapid Acty to Odawara. How do I buy the reserve seat if I am using the Suica card? Can I buy in advance or I can only buy it before I take the train? Thanks
Hi Shufen san,
There is no reserved seats on this train. As long as you tap your Suica when you go through the ticket gate, you don’t need any other ticket to take ordinary seat.
Even if you take Green seat, it’s non reserved seat but you need to purchase green seat ticket. You can purchase this green seat ticket at the vending machine just before taking train.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks Takeshi San.
I have other questions
What is the difference between ordinary seat and green seat? If I were to take the ordinary seat, will I get a seat or do I have to stand for the whole journey?
Hi Shufun san,
Please see the link below to find some images of ordinary and green.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/rapid-service-network-in-greater-tokyo.html
Rapid Acty is same kind of trains as the trains in the link above. It’s a commuter’s train. There are many passengers. You may not be able to take a seat. Even if you purchase a green, you may not get a seat in case of full. You can take later train to get a seat on Green car. But you have to wait and it’s not guaranteed that next train will have an empty seat.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks Takeshi San,
The weekday rush hours would be very crowded. Would it be better to take the JR Tokaido Rapid Acty to Odawara at 7am or 10am?
Hi Shufun san,
I think it’s not much different. It’s peak hour but you will travel opposite direction. If you travel to Tokyo, it’s chaos. But you will travel from Tokyo. And the busiest period is 8:00 to 9:00. So it will be busy but it’s not super busy.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi ,
Is tokunai pass covered Joban line? If I stay at matsudo (Joban Line) and I want to go to Harajuku, Shinjuku etc, which pass must I use?subway or tokunai?
Thanks
Hi Cindy,
It depends on where you go other than Harajuku and Shinjuku. If you visit only these two places, Tokunai pass is better because these two places are located on JR Yamanote line. JR is much easier to take than subway. As you see the map, there are so many subway lines in Tokyo.
But there are many places where you cannot reach by subway, such as Tsukiji, Roppongi, Asakusa. So please make sure where you go first.
Matsudo is outside coverage area of both Tokunai pass and subway pass. Matsudo is one station away from Kanamachi that is Tokunai pass border station, three stations away from Ayase that is the nearest subway station. You have to pay extra to get these two stations.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
DearTakeshi,
Actually I also want to go to Tsukiji, Roponggi, Asakusa, Odaiba, and other major spots in Tokyo, maybe I must use subway pass? Is Kita-senju station covered by subway pass?
I will arrived in Haneda at 10pm, is there any chance I can buy subway pass in Haneda around 11-12pm?
Thanks for your feedback.
Hi Cindy,
Subway pass is better choice. Kita-senju is covered by subway pass.
You can purchase it at Haneda airport tourist info, arrival lobby. It’s open until 25:00.
http://www.haneda-airport.jp/inter/en/premises/service/rental_car.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
I am travelling to Tokyo in August (Arriving in Haneda Airport, and departing from Narita Airport), I would like to find out if the Tokyo Subway Pass covers the following trips,
1) Travel to Tokyo train station – From Haneda, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho before changing to the JR Yamanote line to Tokyo train station.
2) Travel to Narita Airport – From Tokyo station, take the Joban line to Nippori and switch to the Keisei main line to Keisei-Takasago. I will then take the Keisei Narita Sky Access Exp from Keisei-Takasago to Narita Airport.
Your advice is greatly appreciated, thank you!
Hi John,
Both trips are not covered by subway pass unfortunately. As I saw your trip plan, only single fare ticket is the choice.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi John,
I would like to tell you one more thing. Budget bus runs between Tokyo station and Narita. This is most convenient and cheapest option to get Narita from Tokyo station.
http://accessnarita.jp/en/home/
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com