Picture this, you’re stepping off the plane and your first mission is mastering Tokyo public transport rules so you can breeze through the city like a pro. Between IC cards, train etiquette, and baggage limits, there’s a bit to learn. But don’t worry, this ultimate guide breaks it all down into bite-sized steps.
In this guide you’ll discover
- How to use an IC card for smooth payments
- When to reserve oversized baggage on Shinkansen
- Key etiquette dos and don’ts on trains and buses
- Tips for choosing between metro, JR lines, buses, and taxis
- Must-have apps and connectivity hacks
- Accessibility advice for all travelers
Use an IC card
Whether you’re hopping on a subway, JR train, or bus, an IC card is your golden ticket.
Choose your IC card
- Suica, Pasmo, Icoca and more work interchangeably across major cities.
- You can buy one at airport kiosks, convenience stores, or ticket machines.
Top up your balance
- Add credit at station machines or convenience stores.
- Keep an eye on your balance—machines usually show it after you tap out.
Use beyond transit
Your IC card isn’t just for rides. You can pay for drinks, snacks, and even vending-machine coffee with a single tap. For more on cashless options see japan cash or card payments.
Reserve oversized baggage
Tokyo’s bullet trains have strict rules for large luggage. Plan ahead so you don’t get stuck.
Oversize baggage rules for Shinkansen
- Luggage over 160 cm (height + width + depth) must go in designated seats in the last row of cars.
- This rule applies on the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishikyushu Shinkansen lines (Japan-Guide).
How to reserve and store
- Book a seat with an oversized baggage area when you reserve tickets online or at a JR ticket office.
- After boarding, place your bag behind your seat or in the nearby compartment.
- Without a reservation you’ll face a 1,000 yen fee (JR Central).
Avoid fees and hassles
- General luggage allowance: two pieces per person, max 30 kg each, combined dimensions under 250 cm, length under 200 cm (Japan-Guide).
- Airport and highway buses often have separate compartments for large items—check ahead.
- City buses limit you to small or medium bags under 10 kg. If you have bulky suitcases, consider a taxi or delivery service.
Observe travel etiquette
Tokyo travel etiquette is all about respect and quiet efficiency. Follow these tips to blend in.
Keep noise low
Tokyo isn’t totally silent—campaign vans might blare slogans during elections—yet loud phone calls or music are frowned upon (Japanatron). Use headphones on low volume and switch your phone to silent.
Phone, food, and personal space
- Avoid talking on your phone in trains and stations.
- Local trains discourage eating and drinking (long-distance shinkansen is OK) (Boutique Japan).
- Keep your bag off the seat next to you, especially during rush hours—avoid peak-hour crush by checking rush hour times tokyo avoid.
Queue and board
- Stand in marked lines on the platform.
- Let passengers exit before you board.
- Move toward the carriage center so everyone can get on.
For more on proper conduct see tokyo train etiquette rules and tokyo transportation etiquette.
Pick your transport mode
Tokyo offers a buffet of ways to get around—here’s how to pick the best one for you.
Subway and metro
- Covers almost every neighborhood.
- Fares start around 170 yen and rise based on distance.
- Download official apps and check tokyo metro app recommendations to plan routes.
JR lines and passes
- The JR Yamanote Line circles central Tokyo, stopping at major hubs like Shinjuku and Shibuya.
- Each passenger can bring two pieces of luggage within standard size limits (Japan-Guide).
- The JR Pass isn’t a default must-buy now—use an online calculator to see if it saves money.
Buses and coaches
- City buses serve areas beyond rail reach but restrict luggage to small bags.
- Highway buses offer large compartments for bigger suitcases.
- Free WiFi is common—ideal for off-beat destinations (Jetstar).
Taxis
- Doors open automatically for you—no need to touch handles (Boutique Japan).
- Fares start around ¥410 for 1.052 km plus incremental charges—more expensive than trains but door-to-door.
- No tipping needed, see tokyo tipping culture guide.
Leverage transport apps
Smart apps keep you on track and out of line.
Tokyo Metro and JR apps
- Real-time schedules, platform info, train status alerts.
- Save favorite routes and get delay notifications.
Google Maps magic
- Shows platform transfers, walking times, and exit numbers.
- Check which car to board for quicker transfers at busy stations.
Stay connected
- Free station WiFi is spotty.
- Rent or buy a pocket WiFi or japan sim card for tourists.
- Many convenience stores offer public hotspots—see tokyo wifi internet access.
Plan for accessibility
Tokyo takes accessibility seriously—here’s what to know if you have mobility needs.
Barrier-free stations
- Major stations have elevators, ramps, and tactile paving.
- Older stations are gradually upgrading.
Wheelchair-friendly buses and taxis
- Tokyo buses feature ramps and reserved spaces.
- Adapted taxis can be booked in advance.
Accessible attractions
- Meiji Jingu Shrine, Sensoji Temple, and Tokyo Skytree offer ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (Accessible Japan).
- Robot-served cafes at DAWN Avatar are fully inclusive.
For luggage storage between rides see tokyo luggage storage options and to find restrooms on the go check tokyo restroom locations guide.
Review key takeaways
- Grab an IC card for seamless payments.
- Book oversized baggage slots on shinkansen to avoid fees.
- Keep noise down, respect queues, and follow boarding marks.
- Choose between subway, JR lines, buses, or taxis based on your route.
- Use apps, WiFi or a SIM card to stay connected.
- Plan for accessibility with ramps, elevators, and adapted vehicles.
Frequently asked questions
-
What is the maximum luggage size on Tokyo trains?
You can carry two bags under 30 kg each, total dimensions under 250 cm, length under 200 cm. Bags over 160 cm need a reserved spot (Japan-Guide). -
Do I need to make a seat reservation for all Shinkansen?
Reservations aren’t mandatory, but you must reserve if you have oversized baggage or want guaranteed seats, especially during peak seasons. -
Can I eat on local trains?
Local trains discourage eating or drinking, though bottled water is fine. On long-distance trains like the shinkansen, tray tables and ekiben lunchboxes make onboard dining part of the fun (Boutique Japan). -
How do I avoid Tokyo’s rush-hour crush?
Skip trains between 7:30 am–9:30 am and 5:00 pm–7:00 pm, or check rush hour times tokyo avoid for tips on off-peak travel. -
Are IC cards refundable?
Yes, return your unused IC card at a station ticket office for a small refund minus deposit. It works across Japan and even in some vending machines.
