Navigation tips everyone should know

Japan's transportation system is celebrated for its efficiency and technological innovation, particularly through its extensive network of trains, including the renowned Shinkansen, which offers rapid travel between cities. The seamless integration of public and private transport, along with high standards of service and cleanliness, enhances the overall travel experience for both locals and visitors. This meticulous organization and commitment to punctuality distinguish Japan's transportation from that of many other countries.

The trains in Japan fall mostly into three categories; Regular trains, Subways, and Bullet Trains (shinkansen). All are fairly easy to use and have a similar system. We recommend a guide on the first day of your trip to review how the transportation system works and getting around in general. We show you how to buy tickets, reserve seats, and find your train.

Should you get a rail pass?

Short answer, probably not. We only recommend a rail pass under two main scenarios.

1) If you are getting a reginal pass that will save you a lot of money for a couple days. This would in be super useful for a trip to Hiroshima from Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Wakayama). See our Kansai-Hiroshima trip for more information.

2) A National Rail Pass makes riding the trains a lot less stressful. While you wont save money using it, you dont need to worry about making train reservations and keeping to a tight schedule.

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Uber vs. Taxis in Japan: Which Should You Use?

Uber is available in Japan, but it may work differently from the service you use at home in terms of overall function. The same app you use in America works in japan, no need to download a new app for Uber. In many locations, selecting the Taxi option in the Uber app connects you with a licensed local taxi rather than an ordinary private driver. The available vehicle types and waiting times depend on your location and the time of day. 

Uber is particularly useful for international visitors because you can enter your destination before the ride, communicate less with the driver, see an estimated fare, and arrange payment through the app. However, taking a taxi from a nearby taxi stand or hailing one on the street may sometimes be faster or less expensive. App fees and demand can affect the final price, so you should not assume Uber and a regular taxi will always cost exactly the same.

Both options are generally safe and reliable. When arranging transportation independently, use properly licensed taxis, which have green license plates in Japan, and avoid unofficial drivers offering rides in private vehicles. 

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How to Use IC Cards in Japan

Transportation cards are called IC cards. Here you can see their various versions. All of these types of IC cards work interchangably.

Prepaid IC cards such as Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, and TOICA are one of the easiest ways to use public transportation in Japan. On most participating train and subway systems, tap the card at the ticket gate when entering and tap it again when leaving. The correct fare is automatically deducted from the balance. Bus procedures vary, so watch what other passengers do and look for the IC card symbol. 

IC cards can also be used at many convenience stores, vending machines, restaurants, and coin lockers. Most major regional IC cards are compatible with transportation networks in other parts of Japan, but they are not accepted on every train or bus route. Some journeys crossing separate IC service areas, as well as many Shinkansen journeys, require a separate ticket or advance registration. Do not assume that simply tapping your card will cover every trip. 

Physical card availability and visitor-card products can change, so check the latest information when you arrive. Travelers with a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch can add supported Japanese transit cards to Apple Wallet. Android support is more dependent on the device and its region. If the gate does not open, do not keep tapping—go to the staffed gate and ask for assistance. 

Teahouse Trails offers an amazing service of aquiring, loading, and sending an IC card to your hotel. Arrive to your hotel without the frustration of getting your own IC card.