Introduction to Tokyo's Public Transportation System

TRAVEL | JAPAN

By Maurice Servaessen

Introduction

With a population of 37 million, the Tokyo metropolitan area is the most populous in the world. With so many people and public transportation options, it feels like a jungle when using the public transportation system for the first time.

This article informs you how to use public transportation. We give you tips and introduce you to significant train and subway lines and how to use buses and taxis.

On Arrival in Tokyo

Although it is possible to enter Tokyo via ship, most people will arrive at one of Tokyo's two airports: Narita or Haneda Airport.

Located approximately 55 km (34 mi) northeast of the city is Tokyo's second largest airport: Narita Airport. The fastest way to get to Tokyo from this airport is by high-speed train. There are two options: using the Narita Express or the Keisei Skyliner.

The airport has two train stations. Terminal 1 primarily handles international flights and has its dedicated station. Terminals 2 and 3 share a combined station—Terminal 2 serves both domestic and international flights, while Terminal 3 mainly accommodates domestic low-cost carriers.

Narita Express

The Narita Express has three routes:

Route A: Narita Airport - Tokyo Station - Shinagawa - Shibuya - Shinjuku - Ikebukuro - Omiya.
Route B: Narita Airport - Tokyo Station - Shinagawa - Shibuya - Shinjuku - Kichijoji - Tachikawa - Hachioji - Takao.
Route C: Narita Airport - Tokyo Station - Shinagawa - Musashikosugi - Yokohama - Ofuna.

Purchase Narita Express train tickets at the train station, which is located directly under the airport's arrival hall. Train tickets from Narita Airport to Shibuya Stations cost 3,250 yen. Check the Narita Express website for the latest prices.

Keisei Skyliner

The Keisei Skyliner only has one route from Narita Airport to the end-station Keisei Ueno Station and stops at Nippori Station.

IC-cards

IC-cards are rechargeable contactless electronic cards used as fare cards on the public transportation system in Japan. The two most used cards in Tokyo are Suica and PASMO. East Japan Railway Company (JR East) introduced the Suica card in 2001, and a consortium of railway and bus operators launched the PASMO card in 2007. Many stores and vending machines also accept both cards for payment.

Official Website Narita Express

Visit the official English website of the Narita Express over here:
Official Website

Official Website Keisei Skyliner

Visit the official English website of the Keisei Skyliner over here:
Official Website

Official Website Suica card

Visit the official English website of the Suica card over here:
Official Website

Official Website PASMO card

Visit the official English website of the PASMO card over here:
Official Website