How do you ride the subway in Tokyo?
- Published on : 17/09/2026
- by : Clément
- Youtube
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The subway is essential for getting around the vast metropolis of Tokyo. Although the network map may seem complex, it’s actually quite simple to find your way around and use the various subway lines in the Japanese capital. The Japan Experience editorial team presents its comprehensive guide to help you get familiar with the Tokyo subway!
A Dense Rail Network
Tokyo’s subway system is primarily operated by two companies: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, which serve 290 stations and carry nearly 9 million passengers per day. In addition, many lines are operated by private companies, such as , JR, Tobu, Keisei, Keio, and Sobu.
Tokyo’s rail lines form the world’s busiest public transit network on a daily basis. It remains the preferred way to explore the city.
How to get around by metro in Tokyo
How do you get around Tokyo by subway?
Don’t worry—finding the different lines and stations is pretty easy. On maps and signs around the city, all stations are labeled in Japanese and in the Roman alphabet. Once inside the train, all stops are announced in Japanese and English, and sometimes also in Korean and Chinese.
Each station is identified by the color corresponding to its line, along with a letter and a number. For example, the “Meiji-Jingumae” station is the third station on the Chiyoda Line and is therefore marked as “C03” inside a green circle.
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Discover Tokyo easily and affordably with the Japan Experience Tokyo Metro Pass! This prepaid pass gives you access to an extensive transit network, allowing you to explore the Japanese capital with ease.
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Tokyo Subway Fares and Ticket Purchases
Tokyo subway fares vary depending on the route. Fares start at just over 100 yen for a nearby station and then increase based on the distance traveled.
It’s a good idea to plan your route in advance using apps like Hyperdia, NaviTime, or Google Maps. These services are reliable and make it easy to find your way around thanks to their schedules, directions, and travel times provided.
To buy a ticket, simply head to a ticket vending machine, which can be found near the turnstiles. The machines are available in English; just follow the instructions:
- Select a fare based on your departure and arrival stations (a map of the network is always displayed above the machines).
- Select the number of passengers.
- Insert cash or a payment card.
- Collect your tickets and any change.
Note: Even if you change lines (and therefore rail operators), only one ticket is required for the entire journey. You may need to pass through the turnstiles multiple times, presenting the same ticket each time. At the end of your trip, this ticket will be permanently collected as you exit.
Suica and Pasmo prepaid cards
Prepaid Cards
To make paying for your subway ride much easier, we strongly recommend that you purchase an IC Card (prepaid transit card).
Once loaded, you can use it on various modes of transportation (subway, trains, buses, and trams) simply by swiping the card at the turnstile. They can also be used for shopping, particularly at konbini (convenience stores) !
To recharge a card, simply go to a ticket vending machine. Place your card in the designated slot, select“Charge IC card,” and then select an amount. Payment is generally accepted in cash only.
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The fare and the remaining balance on the card are displayed on a small screen each time you pass through.
If there is not enough balance on your card to pay for your trip when you exit, go to a "Fare Adjustment" machine to recharge your card.
Visiting Tokyo? Check out the Welcome Suica and Tourist Pasmo cards, designed especially for international visitors!
Discover our Welcome Suica
Rules to Follow on the Tokyo Subway
The Tokyo subway is renowned for its reliability, punctuality, and cleanliness. As we explained in our comprehensive guide, there are a few rules of conduct you should follow:
- Stay calm and quiet. It’s particularly frowned upon to talk on the phone or listen to music without headphones in the train cars.
- Eating isn’t strictly prohibited, but limit yourself to candy or quick snacks.
- Respect the lines on the platforms and let passengers get off before boarding.
- Respect the seats reserved for people with limited mobility, located at the ends of the train.
- In Tokyo specifically, it is customary to stand on the left side of escalators.
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