Taking the Train in Japan

IC Card

An IC Card is a rechargeable card that you can use to make paying for public transportation easier. You load money onto the card, and simply tap it to the gate when you are ready to enter the paid zone. The cool thing about these cards is that many stores and vending machines also accept payment from these cards! 

You can purchase an IC Card at almost every major station. I would recommend purchasing it at the airport if you plan to take the train from the airport into the city. The airport IC Card machine will accept credit cards, while some of the other stations do not. If you need to recharge your IC Card, you can do that at any station, but you will need cash or coins. 

These cards are valid on virtually all trains, subways and buses in most of Japan's major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya and Fukuoka. However, they are not valid on the Shinkansen Bullet train or outside of the IC card areas.

Learn more about IC Cards HERE!

Riding the Train

Almost all signs are written in Japanese and English, so as long as you know one of those, you should be golden! 

Find your platform by looking for your train line and direction. There are marks on the floor indicating where train doors open, and where to stand.

Wait for passengers to exit the train before you board. Try not to block the doors if the train is crowded, and make space for other passengers. 

Talking on the phone is forbidden on the trains, and most people refrain from talking as well. Try to be as quiet as possible. There is also no eating or drinking on the trains. 

Most trains have digital signs and announcements that announce the upcoming station. And stations will all have a corresponding letter and number. Google Maps will be your best friend! 

Tips for Families 

•  Many of the gates to enter the train station are very narrow. If you are using a stroller, make sure it is compact! Side-by-side strollers will not fit!

•  Most stations have stairs, and not all have elevators. Prepare to carry your child and/or the stroller if needed. Link to our favorite travel stroller!

•  If there are elevators, they are not necessarily at every exit. Be sure to look for signs!

•  Kids 6 and under are free and do not need a train ticket. They can go through the ticket gate with an adult.