Understanding the Japanese subway

Traveling in Japan means immersing yourself in a fascinating country where modernity and tradition coexist harmoniously. But for many travelers, a first challenge arises quickly: the Japanese subway. With its multiple lines, sometimes confusing codes, and formidable efficiency, it can impress or even intimidate. However, once you understand how it works, it is an incredibly practical, punctual, and smooth system.

Here is everything you need to know to navigate smoothly through the Japanese subway, whether you are in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or elsewhere in the archipelago.

A complex network, but very well organized

At first glance, the subway maps of the major Japanese cities can be dizzying: the lines intersect, the names are long, and some systems coexist in the same city. However, this apparent labyrinth hides a methodical organization and exemplary efficiency.

Several operators in the same city

Unlike Paris or London where a single company manages the subway, in Japan, several companies coexist in the same area. In Tokyo, for example, you have the Tokyo Metro, the Toei Subway, and many private companies like JR East, Keio, or Tokyu. This can be surprising at first, as each company has its own lines, its own tickets, and even its own stations… although often interconnected.

A very clear visual signage

Fortunately, the signage is designed to facilitate navigation. Each line has a color and a code (for example, G for the Ginza line, M for Marunouchi), and each station has a number. You will see names like G09 or M20, which will allow you to easily visualize your route without having to read all the ideograms.

Buying your ticket or transport card

Once you have identified your route, you need to obtain the right transport ticket. Several options are available to you, each with its advantages.

Prepaid cards: Suica, Pasmo & Co

The Suica, Pasmo, Icoca, etc. are contactless cards that you can recharge and use in almost all cities in Japan. They work for the subway, buses, some shops, and even vending machines. It’s the simplest and fastest solution: you just need to tap your card at the entrance and exit.

Single tickets and daily passes

You can also buy a single ticket at the machine, but this requires checking the exact fare according to your destination. Daily passes are also available, especially for tourists, allowing free travel for 24, 48, or 72 hours on certain lines.

Using the subway well in Japan: rules and habits

Beyond the system itself, what often impresses visitors is the behavior of Japanese users. The subway is a space of calm, respect, and efficiency, where everyone knows the unspoken rules.

Silence, cleanliness, and respect for space

Japanese people rarely speak loudly in the subway, phones on silent mode, discreet discussions or even none at all: the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful, even during rush hours. It is frowned upon to eat or make phone calls in the cars.

In terms of cleanliness, the trains are impeccable; you will see very few litter or dirt. In fact, there are often no trash cans in the stations; everyone is expected to take their waste with them.

Getting on and off: specific rules

Before entering the train, passengers queue on the markings on the ground. They let passengers disembark before boarding, without pushing. Inside, priority seats are respected, and bags are often held in hand or placed on laps to avoid inconvenience.

Finding your way and planning your route

Given the density of the network, it is essential to prepare your trips well. Fortunately, many tools make this task easy, even without speaking Japanese.

Use mobile applications

Apps like Japan Travel by NAVITIME, Google Maps, or Hyperdia are very effective. They show you schedules, connections, the platform to take, and even the exit to prioritize once you arrive at your destination.

Reading signs and announcements

Signs in the stations are generally bilingual in Japanese and English, and even trilingual in major cities. Announcements at the station and in the trains are also translated into English, which greatly facilitates navigation, and if you are lost, uniformed staff are often ready to help you, even with basic English.

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka subway: the differences to know

If you travel across several Japanese cities, you will see that each network has its own characteristics. Tokyo impresses with its size, Kyoto is simpler but less dense, and Osaka has its own pace.

Tokyo: the largest and busiest

The Tokyo subway is extremely dense, with more than 13 main lines. It serves almost all neighborhoods and operates at an impressive frequency. But be careful to check if your journey involves a company change, as this may involve a different fare or another exit to take.

Kyoto: a limited network but complementary buses

The Kyoto subway has only two main lines, which limits its use. To explore the city, you will often need to supplement with buses or local trains. Prepaid cards like Icoca remain compatible, making the transition easier.

Osaka: simple, efficient, and centralized

Osaka has a well-structured subway, easier to navigate than that of Tokyo. The network is well marked, central stations are well connected, and the Osaka Amazing Pass is an excellent option for tourists.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about the subway in Japan

Is the subway punctual in Japan?

Yes, punctuality is one of the great strengths of the Japanese subway. Trains leave on time, to the second, except in exceptional cases.

Can you use a Suica card in Kyoto or Osaka?

Yes, the Suica card works with most transportation systems throughout the country, including Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, etc...

Is there Wi-Fi in the Japanese subway?

In some major stations and trains, free Wi-Fi is offered, especially in Tokyo, but it is advisable to have an eSIM or a pocket Wi-Fi for more comfort.