From local and express trains to shinkansen and subways, train travel in Japan can get complicated fast. Thankfully there are now plenty of English resources like translated ticket machine menus and navigation apps. But even with those weapons at your disposal, you might still stumble. Discover all you need to know to navigate the murky waters of Japanese train travel here.
Not long ago, taking the train in Japan meant squinting at posters on the wall and fumbling with paper maps. And half the time it would still end with an awkward conversation with a station attendant. Well, those days are long gone thanks to smart phones. We've searched and tested for the best apps to make your life easier, and you can find them in this article.
There are several Tokyo train passes that can make catching trains in the capital easier. Tokyo’s special JR Pass and the Pasmo Passport are two options for tourists while a regular Pasmo card is better for residents. They’ll allow you to mostly avoid ticket machines and may reduce fare costs. Find all of the options in this article and decide what will save you money and time on your next trip.
IC cards are plastic cards with integrated chips inside, allowing tap-style payment of train fare. There are several types in Japan that all work by tapping them at station gates with IC sensors. More recently, vending machines and shops have also accommodated IC payment for purchasing goods. Read on to see how these clever cards can make your life in Japan infinitely easier.