How to Get Around in Japan: 8 Convenient Ways to Travel

Japan boasts one of the world's most efficient and extensive public transportation networks, but mastering how to get around in Japan can be the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable adventure.

Imagine stepping off your flight in Tokyo, ready to explore Japan's wonders, only to find yourself overwhelmed by a maze of train lines, unfamiliar signs, and a transportation system that seems impenetrable. Sound daunting? Don't worry – you're not alone. In this article from TravelTrhu, we'll equip you with insider tips, practical advice, and essential tools to plan your journey, choose the right modes of transport, and navigate like a local. Let’s read on with us!

How to Get Around in Japan With Public Transportation

By Train

Trains are the most efficient and popular way to get around Japan. The country's extensive and punctual rail network makes it easy for travelers to explore both urban centers and rural areas. Here's what you need to know about the different types of trains in Japan:

Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

The crown jewel of Japan's railway system is undoubtedly the Shinkansen, or bullet train. This high-speed network connects major cities across the country, from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south.

Shinkansen trains are renowned for their incredible speed, reaching up to 320 km/h (200 mph), which significantly reduces travel time between cities. But it's not just about speed – these trains also offer unparalleled comfort with spacious seats and ample legroom, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey even over long distances.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Shinkansen for travelers is its frequency. On popular routes, trains depart every few minutes, providing flexibility and convenience for your travel plans. If you're planning to visit multiple cities during your stay in Japan, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on Shinkansen trains and can be a cost-effective option for extensive travel.

The Shinkansen also offers a variety of stops to suit different travel needs. For instance, the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line has three types: Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama. Nozomi trains make fewer stops, providing the fastest journey to the Kansai region (Kyoto, Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, etc.). However, Japan Rail Pass holders need to buy an extra ticket to board Nozomi trains.

Additionally, Shinkansen trains provide three seating options: Non-reserved (open seating), Reserved (pre-booked seats), and Green Car (first-class) for added comfort. Additionally, Hokkaido, Tohoku, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines offer the luxurious "GranClass" seats, though rail pass holders will need to purchase an additional ticket for these.

Conventional Railways

While the Shinkansen is perfect for long-distance travel, Japan's conventional train lines are ideal for shorter trips and accessing smaller towns or rural areas. These lines cover an extensive network, reaching places not serviced by the bullet trains and often offering scenic routes that showcase the beauty of the Japanese countryside. Conventional lines are generally more affordable than the Shinkansen for shorter journeys. That’s why this is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.

In regions like Kyoto and its surrounding areas, several railway companies operate networks that are frequently used for sightseeing and inter-city travel. These include JR Railway, Hankyu Railway, Keihan Railway, and Kintetsu Railway. Each of these networks offers various types of trains to suit different travel needs. You'll find Limited Express trains for faster, more direct journeys; Express and Rapid trains that make fewer stops; and Local trains that stop at every station along the route.

It's important to note that not all trains stop at every station. Before boarding, always check the train type to ensure it stops at your intended destination. This is particularly crucial when using Express or Rapid services, as they might skip smaller stations. If you plan to explore more remote areas, check train schedules in advance, as some rural lines may have less frequent service.

Subway Systems

In Japan's major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, subway systems form an integral part of the urban transportation network. These underground railways are the lifelines of city dwellers and a boon for tourists looking to explore urban attractions. Subway networks in Japanese cities are known for their efficiency and convenience, with extensive coverage that puts most city areas within easy reach.

One of the greatest advantages of Japanese subways is their frequency, especially during peak hours, which minimizes waiting times. The systems are designed to be user-friendly for both locals and tourists, with color-coded lines and clear signage in both Japanese and English. This makes navigating even the most complex subway networks relatively straightforward.

Subway travel in Japan is also quite affordable, with reasonable fares for single trips and the option to purchase day passes for unlimited travel. It can be particularly economical for tourists planning to make multiple trips in a day. To make your subway journeys even smoother, consider downloading a subway map app or picking up a physical map at the stations. These resources can be invaluable in helping you navigate the extensive networks in larger cities.

By Bus

Buses are widely available in Japan and can be a great choice over trains, particularly for travel within local areas. Although bus trips might take longer and can be affected by weather and traffic, they're usually more affordable. Plus, overnight buses let you save on accommodation costs. If you plan to travel locally or between cities, it's definitely worth looking into bus services as you plan your trip to Japan.

Local Bus

Local buses cover the entire country, allowing you to discover less-visited spots. City buses are simple to use, with a flat fare system and IC card acceptance. You usually board at the front, and stop names are in English.

Outside major cities, buses often charge by distance. In this case, board through the middle door, grab a ticket, and check the fare screen when you get off. Pay the exact amount into the box next to the driver and exit at the front. Note that IC cards may not work on these buses.

Highway Bus

Japan's highway buses conveniently connect cities and popular tourist destinations, offering a budget-friendly way to get around Japan. Operating day and night, these buses are a great choice for flexible travelers. Ticket prices depend on the distance and level of comfort you choose. If you're heading to or from Tokyo, the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal serves as a central hub for nationwide bus routes.

While buses offer a more budget-friendly option compared to trains, they also require a greater time commitment. For instance, a journey from Tokyo to Osaka takes three hours on a bullet train but over nine hours by bus. The bus ticket might cost around 5,500 JPY, but consider whether the cost savings outweigh the additional six hours of travel time, especially if you're on a tight schedule.

However, bus travel can be a worthwhile experience if you have more flexibility. Plus, companies like Willer Express and Japan Bus Lines offer unlimited travel bus passes starting from 10,200 JPY for three non-consecutive weekdays, providing even more value for budget-minded travelers.

By Trams & Streetcars

Although major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto still have a few tram lines remaining, they are but a shadow of the extensive networks that once existed. Some cities like Shizuoka, Nagoya, and Gifu have even completely removed their trams.

However, many cities, recognizing the historical and touristic value of trams, have preserved and promoted them. Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Kumamoto, and Kagoshima are examples.

If you're traveling to Japan, consider taking a tram ride to experience a piece of Japan's urban transport history and get a glimpse into a bygone era.

Other Ways to Get Around Japan

By Plane

While Japan's vast rail and road networks connect most areas, flying is often the best way to reach its far-off corners, as the country spans over 3,000km from north to south.

Major airlines like JAL and ANA handle most routes, but several regional and domestic carriers also operate in Japan. Skymark and Jetstar offer the widest coverage among these, while Peach (Japan's first low-cost airline) and Spring serve some key routes and connect to a few Asian destinations like China and Korea.

Japan boasts numerous regional airports stretching from Hokkaido to Okinawa. Despite the time needed for transfers and security, flying is frequently the fastest way to reach remote parts of the country. Flights often connect through major hubs like Haneda (Tokyo), Kansai (Osaka), or Centrair (Nagoya).

You can usually book tickets online in English, either directly from the airline's website or through a travel agency.

For travelers from abroad, passes and discounted fares can make flying a more economical choice than the bullet train, especially for longer journeys. The JAL Japan Explorer Pass and the ANA Experience Japan Fare are particularly attractive, providing domestic flights from around ¥6,000 with a wide array of routes and generous baggage allowances. Keep in mind that many discount passes are not valid during peak travel times like New Year or school holidays.

If you can't take advantage of a pass, consider booking your flights early or looking for last-minute deals. These discounts often apply to a limited number of tickets, either booked well in advance (a month or two) or very close to the travel date (within a week).

By Taxi

Taxis are a common sight in Japan, especially in big cities, and they're particularly useful for getting around at night when public transportation stops running. You can call a taxi, use an app like JapanTaxi, find one at a taxi stand, or just hail one on the street. Look for a red light (空車) on the dashboard, meaning it's available. When you hail a taxi, the back left door will usually open automatically for you.

While there might be a language barrier with the driver, it's not a major obstacle. Make sure you have the name of your destination in Japanese or, if it's a less-known spot, show the address or point it out on a map.

The base taxi fare starts at ¥400-800 depending on the location, then increases by roughly ¥90 for every 400 meters after the initial two kilometers. Be aware that fares tend to be about 20% higher at night. While taxis in rural areas might only take cash, you'll find more taxis in cities accepting credit cards or IC cards. Tipping is not customary in Japan, so don't feel obligated.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and DiDi are not as popular in Japan, though they are available in some bigger cities. In general, hailing a traditional taxi is more convenient. However, if you're in Tokyo, Uber might be a good option at night as they don't have surge pricing like regular taxis do.

By Rental Car

We wouldn't suggest renting a car to drive yourself to Japan. It's considerably pricier than public transport, parking may be challenging, and navigating can be tough if you don't know Japanese.

If you're still keen on renting a car, you can book it in advance as long as you have the necessary paperwork. Several major companies dominate the car rental market in Japan: Orix Rentacar, Toyota Rentacar, Ekiren, Times Car Rental, and Nissan Rentacar. They all have branches in most major cities and towns. You can easily find their English-language websites or use booking platforms like Tocoo.

The daily cost of car rental typically ranges from ¥5500 to ¥20,000, depending on the vehicle type and season. Returning the car to a different location is usually possible, but expect an additional fee, which can be quite expensive unless the drop-off point is near the pick-up location.

By Bicycle

Bicycle rentals are available at many hotels and private shops, usually conveniently located near train stations. Renting a bike is generally affordable and simple, though you might need your passport for registration. Some modern shops even offer electric bicycles, which are perfect for navigating hilly areas.

In major cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka, bike-sharing programs are becoming increasingly popular. They're generally user-friendly, but it's a good idea to do some research beforehand to understand how they work.

Usually, bikes should be parked in designated areas, often near stations. If you park elsewhere, your bike might get confiscated, and you'll need to pay a fine to get it back. Big cities often have bike parks, but some may only allow registered bikes (monthly fee required). So, always check with the rental place or your hotel about where to park your bike.

By Ferry

Japan is an archipelago with over 6,800 islands. So, it's natural that you'll need a boat to reach some of these islands. While the four main islands are connected by bridges and tunnels, several major tourist attractions, like Miyajima, the Art Islands, Sado Island, and various islands in Okinawa, are only accessible by sea.

Longer ferry journeys, such as the 24-hour trip from Tokyo to the Ogasawara islands or the 12-hour Osaka to Beppu route, often have better onboard facilities. You can expect to find shops, dining areas, showers or even spas, observation decks, and children's play areas.

Most ferries provide three classes of accommodation: second, first, and special. The second class usually offers large spaces with carpets or tatami mats for sleeping or dormitory-style bunk beds. The first class provides beds in smaller rooms, typically shared by two to four people. The most expensive option, special class, offers twin beds or private suites.

Taking your bicycle on board is usually inexpensive, but you need to request it when booking your ticket. Car ferries are common in Japan but can be costly, and it's essential to reserve a spot for your vehicle in advance.

Overnight ferries can be a budget-friendly choice for long trips, as they eliminate the need for a night's stay and often arrive early in the morning. For shorter distances, however, ferries might not be the most economical option.

For example, a one-way trip from Tokyo to the Ogasawara Islands takes 24 hours and costs ¥30,000, while the 12-hour journey from Osaka to Beppu starts at ¥8,000. Shorter routes are naturally less expensive. Traveling to Zamami Island in Okinawa takes about an hour by high-speed boat from Naha and costs around ¥3,200, or you can opt for the slower 2-hour car ferry for ¥2,200.

How to Navigate the Transportation in Japan

Essential Apps

Getting around Japan is made significantly easier with the right digital tools at your fingertips. Here are some useful apps that'll be your virtual companions throughout your journey:

• Hyperdia & Google Maps

When it comes to route planning and real-time information, these two powerhouses reign supreme. Hyperdia is renowned for its in-depth coverage of train schedules, fares, and platform details, particularly for JR lines. Google Maps, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive overview of various transportation modes, including walking and cycling routes. Use them in tandem to compare options, check travel times, and stay updated on any delays or disruptions.

• Translation Apps

While English signage and announcements are becoming increasingly common, a reliable translation app is still invaluable, especially when venturing off the beaten path. Whether it's deciphering station names, understanding bus route maps, or asking for directions, a translation app will bridge the language gap and boost your confidence. Popular options include Google Translate, DeepL, and Microsoft Translator.

• Japan Travel Apps

Several dedicated apps cater specifically to navigating Japan's transport system. Navitime offers detailed route planning across various modes, including real-time transit information and estimated fares. Jorudan is another popular choice, known for its user-friendly interface and extensive train timetable database. And if you're primarily relying on JR lines, the official Japan Transit Planner app provides helpful features like station maps and train status updates.

Ticketing & Passes

Japan offers a range of ticketing and pass options to streamline your travel experience and potentially save you money. Understanding these options will enable you to choose the most suitable ones for your itinerary and budget.

• IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)

These rechargeable smart cards are a must-have for seamless travel on trains, subways, buses, and even some shops and vending machines. Major IC cards include Suica (issued by JR East) and Pasmo (issued by other railway companies), but they are largely interchangeable. 

You can purchase and top up these cards at stations, and they eliminate the need to buy individual tickets for each journey. Simply tap your card at the fare gate when entering and exiting, and the appropriate fare will be automatically deducted. Beyond transportation, you can also use IC cards to make purchases at many shops and vending machines.

• Japan Rail Pass

If you plan on extensive travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, the Japan Rail Pass can be a cost-effective option. It offers unlimited travel on most JR trains for a specified period (7, 14, or 21 days). However, it's essential to calculate potential savings based on your planned itinerary before purchasing, as it might not be the most economical choice for everyone. The pass can be bought online or through authorized travel agents before arriving in Japan and activated at major JR stations.

• Regional Passes

Various regional passes provide unlimited travel within specific areas or on particular transportation modes. These passes can be beneficial if you plan to focus your exploration on a specific region or utilize a specific mode of transport extensively. Examples include the Kansai Thru Pass, Hokkaido Rail Pass, and various bus passes offered by local companies. Research the available regional passes based on your planned destinations to see if they align with your travel plans and offer potential savings.

Remember that ticket vending machines and fare adjustment machines are widely available at stations, and most accept both cash and IC cards. If you're unsure about fares or ticketing options, don't hesitate to ask station staff for assistance – many are accustomed to helping tourists and may even speak some English.

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Armed with this guide on how to get around in Japan, you're now ready to navigate the Land of the Rising Sun with confidence. Remember, mastering Japan's transportation isn't just about reaching your destination—it's an integral part of your adventure. So set forth on your journey, armed with knowledge and a spirit of adventure. Japan's wonders await your discovery. Safe travels, and may your exploration of this fascinating country create memories to last a lifetime!