Guide to Getting Around Japan: A Complete Manual for Foreigners
Welcome to Japan! For foreigners visiting Japan for the first time, Japanese vehicles and means of transportation may seem complicated and difficult to understand. Therefore, in this blog post, we will introduce the major vehicles and means of transportation in Japan in an easy-to-understand manner for foreigners visiting Japan.
- railroads
Japan’s railroad network is one of the largest and most efficient in the world. It covers not only major cities but also regional cities and tourist destinations, making it convenient for travel and business trips.
Major Railroad Companies and Routes
JR East and JR West: Major railroad companies covering the entire country. They operate Shinkansen and limited express trains.
Private railroad companies: Private railroad companies with lines in various regions. Private railways are used for commuting to and from work and school.
Subways: High-speed trains that operate in urban areas.
How to purchase tickets
Ticket vending machines: Located at each station. Accepts cash, IC cards, and credit cards.
Ticket counter: Tell the station staff what ticket you want to buy.
IC cards: Suica, Pasmo, and other IC cards accepted in major cities.
Shinkansen
Japan’s high-speed train. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo to Osaka.
Limited Express Train
Less fast than Shinkansen, but convenient trains connecting major cities.
Normal trains
Local trains that stop at every station.
- bus
A less expensive means of transportation than railroads. Convenient for accessing not only urban areas but also regional cities and tourist destinations.
Express buses: Convenient buses for long-distance travel. Night buses are also available.
Local buses: Buses that operate in urban areas and regional cities.
Sightseeing buses: Buses that take passengers to tourist attractions. 3.
- cab
Taxis are more expensive, but are convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are short on time.
How to take a cab
Wave to the driver on the street: If the taxi is empty, the light on the inside of the car will light up.
Ride from a cab stand: Located at major train stations and tourist attractions.
Use a smartphone app to call a taxi: Uber, JapanTaxi, etc.
- car rental
Recommended for those who wish to travel freely.
How to rent a car
Car rental companies: Offices in each city.
Internet: It is recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Precautions
Japanese roads are left-hand traffic.
An international driver’s license is required.
- other means of transportation
Bicycle: Easy to get around in urban areas.
Walking: Great way to enjoy the Japanese cityscape.
Conclusion
There are a variety of vehicles and means of transportation in Japan. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each, and choose the means of transportation that best suits you.