From Trains to Bikes: Navigating Tokyo Like a Local

Tokyo is a sprawling modern metropolis that is packed with museums, restaurants, and concert venues. There’s always a never-ending list of things to see and do in Tokyo, but at the same time, that’s exactly why navigating the city can be overwhelming for visitors. In this guide we’ll give you an overview of how to get around Tokyo with ease, so you can embrace all that this city has to offer.

Public Transport

Tokyo’s Train System

Japan’s train system is intricate, expansive, and known for its punctuality. For tourists, it’s without doubt the best way to get around Tokyo and see the sights. The train network is primarily divided into Shinkansen (bullet trains), JR (Japan Railway) lines, private railway lines, and subway systems.

The Shinkansen very fast but also comparatively expensive, and used for traveling long distances. If you’re only looking to traverse within Tokyo, then you’ll most likely be spending a lot of time on the JR lines. The JR Yamanote Line is particularly popular, as it loops around central Tokyo and stops at major stations such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Tokyo Station.

Using the JR (Japan Railways) system in Tokyo is straightforward and convenient. First, you’ll need to purchase a ticket or a rechargeable IC card like Suica or Pasmo, which can be used on all JR lines as well as other trains and buses. Or, many tourists opt to purchase a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains across the country. You can read more about it below.

Last Train

When traveling around Tokyo using public transportation, it’s crucial to remember that trains don’t operate all night but conclude with the shūden, or last train. The time of the last train varies depending on the specific line and station but generally falls between midnight and shortly after. For example, according to the latest JR East timetable, the Yamanote Line’s last trains depart at different times depending on the station and direction. To avoid any inconvenience, be sure to check the most recent train schedules on the official JR East website or at the station before planning your late-night travel.

While traveling around Tokyo on public transportation, it’s important to remember that trains don’t operate all night, but end with the shūden, or last train. The time of the last train depends on the specific line but usually it’s around midnight. For example, the Yamanote operates until 1:09 am.

Of course, if you miss the last train but don’t want to take a taxi back to the hotel, there are other options that don’t involve trekking for hours in the dark. For example, you could book a booth in one of the many karaoke parlors dotted around the city. Some of them are open throughout the night, and offer food and drinks so you don’t have to worry about going hungry after a night out. The price for a booth depends on the length of use, with half an hour ranging between ¥500 – ¥1000.

This could also be the opportunity to try out a manga kissa, or manga café. In addition to the expected offer of manga and Wi-Fi, most cafes also provide private booths with space to lie down for a few hours, not to mention a drink bar, games, and even shower booths. Depending on the location, a night at an internet café would cost around ¥1500 to ¥3000.

So even if you do miss the last train, there is no real need to panic. Make it an opportunity to try out some interesting spots!

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)

For people that want to plan a detailed itineraries in Tokyo or beyond, the JR Pass is a great option. The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains across the country for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. It also covers buses, certain Shinkansen, as well as some ferry services. Even though the coverage is quite extensive, you should always confirm whether the path you’re taking is accessible via the pass.

For people who want to travel extensively in Japan this is a great option, as it reduces costs and eliminates the hassle that comes with making multiple ticket purchase for longer trips. But still make sure to consider your itinerary to decide whether it’s worth it for you. As of 2024, these are the current prices for adults and children:

You can purchase the JR Pass in advance from the official website or other authorized sources before coming to Japan. Alternatively, you can also purchase it upon arrival in Japan. For pickup go to a JR Exchange Office, simply bring your passport and purchase number (if applicable). Once you have your pass, you can start enjoying the sights around Japan!

Make sure to purchase the JR Pass on the official website or other authorized sources before coming to Japan. For the pickup, go to a JR Exchange Office in Japan with your passport and purchase number. After that, start enjoying the sights around Japan!

Tips for Public Transportation

1. Avoid rush hour: Rush hour is 7-9am and 5-7pm during weekdays, and it’s during these times that you see the videos of station staff desperately shoving people onto overspilling train cars. Try to avoid these time frames if you can to escape the crowds, particularly if you’ve traveling from Haneda or Narita Airport with suitcases in tow.

2. Find the right exit: Large stations in Tokyo are much more difficult to navigate than smaller ones. Shinjuku Station and Ikebukuro Station are famous for being never-ending mazes of twists and turns, but it’s important to not just leave from the first exit you see. If you take the South Exit when your destination is on the north side, that could mean 10-20 extra minutes of walking around the station trying to get there. Depending on the season and the weight of your luggage, it can be a painful experience.
3. Etiquette on the train: Compared to many other countries, the rules for train use in Japan are extensive. One of the most important ones is to avoid making too much noise, especially when it comes to phone calls. Avoid answering the phone on the train, and in the same vein, it’s best not to play music out loud either. 

Navigating by Bike

Biking is a very common means of transportation in Tokyo, with parking areas and bike lots all over the city.  On a regular day it’s normal to see students on their way to school, women riding on electric bikes with small children, or serious cyclists in full gear zipping around the main streets of Shinjuku.

Riding a bike is a great way to slow down and admire the many quint shops and streets that simply fly by in a blur on the train. And it’s easy to do. To rent a bike, there are services like Docomo Bike Share or Hello Cycling that have numerous stations across the city. Download their apps, register, and find a nearby station to pick it up, simple as that.

When biking in Tokyo, be cautious of the traffic and always use designated bike lanes or shared sidewalks where available. Bike helmets are not required by law, but wear one for your own safety, as getting into an accident far from home is difficult to navigate and can be incredibly isolating. Additionally, although crime rates in Tokyo are low, bike theft still occurs. In fact, it is the most common type of theft in Japan, so remember to lock your bikes or return it after use.  

Some of the best areas for biking include the scenic paths along the Sumida River, the expansive Yoyogi Park, and the wide streets of Odaiba with its stunning waterfront views.

Tokyo has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, and is a great biking city to boot. While it’s a city where the bustle never stops, don’t be afraid to venture with your Suica to new places not on the tourist top ten lists. Google Maps is your trusted advisor, and there are always resources to guide you to the best spots around town.