Getting Around

Tokyo is covered by a complex and dense network of train, bus and subway lines.  However, it's engineered in such a way that makes it quite simple to use thanks to color coordination and English signage at most stations.  The hardest part is probably using the automated ticket booths, just be prepared to dish out plenty of coins, but you'll get used to it pretty quickly.

Tokyo Subway Map                                   

If you purchase tickets as you go as opposed to obtaining a pass, you will likely be using machines that look like this:

Just choose English, press the #of tickets button and deposit required coins.

If you are unsure about which fair to use, just choose the cheapest - ¥130.  You can adjust it when leaving the train at the ticket counter.

The subway is a fast and efficient way to get around.

Be aware of Tokyo rush hour.  It can be a very crowded train ride.  We tended to get to our destinations before 8 am and didn't have a problem.  just something to be aware of.

Tokyo rush hour in the subway.

Stations tend to be in English, such as these.  Akihabara, a favorite for shopping, especially electronics.  And Ueda, which is on the way up to Nagano - east of Tokyo.

Bullet Train to Nikko

The Bullet Trains, or Shinkansen, are fast and efficient ways to get around. They are quite pricey but worth the experience.  You do have to pay extra for reserved seating, or else you could be standing.

The Shinkansen headed west to Nagano

An important note:  if you are planning to travel by Shinkansen, I was told through an official website that you must purchase the tickets out-of-country as a tourist. That means you must purchase them in your homeland.  When you are ready to ride the Shinkansen, you then must go to a main station, such as Ueno Station, to trade in for actual tickets.


Also of note, there are 6 different Japan Rail divisions and the tickets are not interchangeable.  So be sure to plan ahead where you want to go and purchase the tickets for the proper railway.


The link to the Japan Rail Pass site:
http://www.japanrailpass.net/


Another common way to get around is the bus system, which can be very useful as well.  Some of the streets they have to navigate can become small very fast.  To add to it, there are plenty of people, bicycles and cars on the streets.

Payment is easy enough, every bus has a machine in which you add your coins or bills to cover the fare.

Narita City Bus circling Narita through some very narrow, busy streets at times - not a scratch on it!

And we can't forget about the taxi.  They are generally more expensive, as expected, and can be found easily.  Especially at main areas.

Many taxis lined up in front of JR station, Sapporo

I thought it was interesting that the taxi drivers manually open and close the door for you from there seat.

You can actually buy small replicas of these and many other service vehicles including buses, delivery vans, garbage trucks, and so on.  An interesting and inexpensive souvenir.

A bicycle parking lot in Sapporo - Toyohira District.

Many japanese citizens get around with the bicycle.  They can be quite expensive and are very practical in design with interesting features built-in such as small, effective locks.


It's amazing how locals can weave through busy sidewalks, all while children and groceries are strapped in.








Speaking of bicycling, Tokyo has a zero-emission alternative to a taxi called a Velotaxi.  Its a fun way to have a memorable trip.  Look for the amount of carbon-emissions you saved the atmosphere on your receipt.

A pink Velotaxi in Tokyo, zero-emission form of commuting.

The futuristic-looking water taxi.

This is the stylish water taxi operated by the Tokyo Cruise company, which has various routes and ships around the Sumida River.  It's a great way to experience a side excursion while taking a rest from all that walking.  At ¥1520 per adult from Asakusa to Odaiba, its a nice way to spend about an hour.

And finally, the last mode of transportation.  The one that you don't ever wanna take!  And it only has one destination.  But it sure does look cool.

A police vehicle outside of JR station, Sapporo.  Notice the line of taxis in the background.

*Important note:  be sure to have a comfortable pair of shoes.  The main way to get around will be walking.  We were probably walking from 8 AM to 9 PM every day - great way to loose a little weight.

Not these shoes to the right, however.  Those are the house shoes your Ryokan inn provides for you upon entering.


Just be sure to have a good, reliable and broken-in shoe and you shouldn't have any problems.