Tokyo Travel
Find out about the variety of Tokyo travel options available to you for getting around the big T, as well as some essential Tokyo travel tips at the bottom of the page. Tokyo transport is one of the best known systems in the world for it's reliability, convenience and affordability. You just need to know how to use it. Having a little bit of know how can really take the stress out of your stay, maximize your leisure time, and ensure a smooth ride. Check below for info on trains, buses, the Japan Rail Pass, the bullet train, and more...
- Train - When you're visiting Tokyo, travel by train is cheap, reliable and convenient. The system here is - well - phenomenal. I've never seen or experienced infrastructure like it. The busiest station, Shinjuku, sees approximately 3 million people pass through it each working day. It's most definitely a hats off to the Japanese for this one. Average waiting time for a train - maximum 6 - 8 minutes. There's the subway, the regular overground lines, the Yamanote Tokyo loop line, the monorails, the Disney train : ), and, of course, the world famous Shinkansen - or perhaps as it's better known - the bullet train.
- Japan Rail Pass - You can get tickets for a specific journey, for a day or a re-chargeable card that works on any line. If you're here on a tourist visa, you can take the option of the Japan Rail Pass for the duration of your stay. A word of caution - if you're on a big night out be aware that the trains stop around midnight. If you're up for it you can wait for them to start again at about 5am, otherwise your options dwindle to a much more expensive taxi.
- Taxis - Not the cheapest option by any means but if you want a door-to-door service, this could be for you. Taxis are metered and many now have the satellite navigation option which helps when you're not too sure about where you're going. Generally, it's the international etiquette of stick your hand out and flag a taxi down. Exceptions include popular night spots, shopping centers and outside train stations where there is usually a taxi rank with a designated area for queueing.
- Tokyo Car Rental - So you want to drive? Ok. I can tell you where to go and what you'll need with you to rent a car in Tokyo. What I can't do is share with you any experiences about this one. Public transport is so convenient and cheap that I've never yet taken the bit between my teeth and driven in Japan. If this changes, I'll let you know how I get on : )
- Buses - The Narita airport limousine bus is a fabulous service and is easy to use. You can book your ticket at the airport and be dropped off at one of the major hubs in the city center of Tokyo. Travel by bus is supported by an extensive local bus network although, hmmmm....., if you're worried about knowing when to get off, I'd stick to the trains. For the majority of tours, trips and journeys you will need to make, they are more than enough. Still need/want to use the bus? No problem - here's a little more info.
- Cycling in Tokyo - Two wheels are sometimes as good as, if not faster, than four. Especially when you're in the big city. Don't expect to cycle on the roads though. Most people cycle on the pavements or sidewalks - when there are any - which can lead to some rather dodgy pedestrian moments. Watch out for someone ringing their bell behind you or the slightly deranged person weaving across the pavement as they head towards you!
- Walking - Last but not least - legs. If you like taking a stroll it's well worth putting your orienteering head on and negotiating your own Tokyo travel route from A to B. Go at your own pace so you can stop and stare in wonder at some of the sights you will undoubtably see - and don't forget your camera! Get off the beaten path and onto the back streets of Tokyo to really see what this city is all about. As the song says - take a walk on the wild side...... only joking.
- Tokyo Travel Tips - This last section is not about the transport, but about what you need to do to plan your Tokyo trip. It's an essential read as it makes getting around and enjoying your experience in Tokyo so much easier.
