JR, subway and private lines
Tokyo has JR lines (like the Yamanote loop), two subway companies (Tokyo Metro and Toei) and private railways. One Suica works on all of them, but switching companies means paying a new fare.
Every station has a code like G19 or JY17 on its signs. We give it for every stop.
Big stations have dozens of exits. We tell you which one to use.
Fares in this guide are 2026 adult fares; JR East raised fares in March 2026 and IC cards are a few yen cheaper than paper tickets.
Train manners
No phone calls on trains, and keep your voice down.
Stand on the left of escalators in Tokyo and on the right in Osaka.
Women-only cars run during rush hour on many lines.
Rush hour (about 7:30–9:30 and 17:30–19:30) is intense. Avoid it with luggage.
Apps to download
Google Maps: accurate transit times and platform numbers.
Japan Transit Planner or NAVITIME: fares and alternative routes.
GO: taxis.
SmartEX: Shinkansen tickets.
Tokyo Disney Resort and USJ apps if you're visiting the parks.