Taking the train in Japan: getting where you need to go

Updated November 2025

Getting around Japan by train

Japan’s train system is fast, clean, and punctual, but for first-time visitors, it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you are visiting, studying abroad, or have just moved here, the train system is an essential part of daily life in Japan. With dozens of operators, multiple lines, and different types of trains (local, express, Shinkansen, etc), figuring out how to transfer trains in Japan is a common challenge.

This guide will help you:

• Understand the types of trains you’ll encounter.
• Learn step-by-step how to change train lines or transfer between Shinkansen and local trains.
• Decide when to buy tickets ahead of time and how to use IC cards like Suica and PASMO. Trains are a key part of your monthly budget in Japan.
• Navigate stations confidently, even in busy hubs like Tokyo or Osaka.

By the end, you’ll be ready to ride Japan’s trains like a pro!

Understanding Japan’s train system

Japan’s train network may seem complicated at first, but it’s actually very organized and easy to navigate once you understand the main types of operators and systems. Here’s a quick overview:

JR vs Private Railways

• JR (Japan Railways):
  • Split into six regional companies after privatization in 1987.
  • Covers most intercity travel and major commuter lines in cities.
  • Examples: JR East (Tokyo), JR West (Osaka), JR Central (Nagoya).
    
• Private Railways:
  • Operated by private companies, often connecting suburbs to city centers.
  • Examples: Odakyū, Keio, Kintetsu, Hankyū.
  • Some offer limited express or special sightseeing trains.

Subways & Metros

• City-run networks that cover urban areas.
• Examples: Tokyo Metro and Osaka Metro.
• Convenient for short-distance trips and connections to JR or private lines.

Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

• Japan’s high-speed rail network connecting major cities.
• Known for punctuality, speed, and comfort.
• Often requires a separate ticket or reservation, though IC cards now make transfers easier at some stations.

IC Cards

• Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, and others can be used on almost all trains, subways, and buses.
• Tap in and out — the fare is automatically calculated.
• Can also be used for convenience store purchases, vending machines, and other small payments.
• Welcome Suica: Tourist version, no deposit, now supports digital and mobile use.
• Commuter Passes (定期券 / Teikiken): If you travel the same route daily, you can load a commuter pass onto your IC card. It offers discounted unlimited rides between two stations for a set period (one, three, or six months), and any travel beyond that route is charged automatically.

Note: Using an IC card makes transfers between JR, private rail, and metro lines seamless, saving time and avoiding multiple tickets.

Understanding train types and tickets in Japan

Navigating Japan’s train system is easier once you know the different types of trains, their stops, and how ticketing works. This section explains local, rapid, express, limited express, and Shinkansen trains, plus tips on IC cards like Suica and PASMO.

Types of trains

Train type	Stops	Cost	Ideal for	Extra ticket?	Example lines
Local (普通 / Futsū)	Every station	Low	Short city trips	No	Yamanote Line (Tokyo), JR Osaka Loop Line
Rapid / Commuter Rapid (快速 / Kaisoku)	Skips some minor stops	Low	Medium-distance travel	No	Chūō Rapid Line (Tokyo)
Express (急行 / Kyūkō)	Major stations only	Medium	Suburban travel	Sometimes	Odakyū Express, Keio Express
Limited Express (特急 / Tokkyū)	Few stations, long-distance	High	Long-distance travel	Yes	Romancecar, JR Limited Express
Shinkansen (新幹線 / Bullet Train)	Only major cities	Highest	Intercity, long-distance	Yes	Tōkaidō Shinkansen, Sanyō Shinkansen

Tips

• Rapid trains usually cost the same as local trains but save time.
• Limited Express trains always require a surcharge and seat reservation.
• Shinkansen tickets include base fare + express fare, and reservations are recommended during busy periods.
• Limited Express trains are a good alternative to Shinkansen if you are trying to save some money.

Tickets and how to buy them

Single tickets

• Buy from machines at stations.
• Check the fare on the station map.
• Insert ticket at the entry gate and keep it for exit.

IC Cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, etc.)

• Tap in and out at ticket gates. Fare is calculated automatically.
• Usable on most trains, buses, and even vending machines or convenience stores.
• Can transfer between JR, metro, and private rail lines seamlessly.

Mobile IC Cards (Suica, Welcome Suica, etc.)

• Digital version for tourists; no deposit required.
• Now supports ticketless Shinkansen reservations.
• Can be stored in iPhone Wallet.

Rail Passes

• Japan Rail Pass: Unlimited travel on JR lines for 7, 14, or 21 days. Great for tourists doing multiple cities.
• Regional JR Passes: Cover a single region (Kansai, Hokkaido, etc.).
• Passes usually cover base fare, but express or limited express reservations may require an additional seat ticket.

Do you need to buy train tickets in Japan ahead of time?

Train type	Advance purchase needed?	Notes
Local / Rapid / Metro	Not required	Use IC card or buy ticket at machine the same day
Express / Limited Express	Recommended	Reserve seats at the station or online for busy times
Shinkansen	Strongly recommended	Reserved seats are best during holidays or weekends; Welcome Suica app allows ticketless booking

Tips

• For short city trips, an IC card is easiest.
• For Shinkansen or limited express, always plan ahead if traveling during Golden Week, Obon, or New Year holidays.
• Mobile options like Welcome Suica save time and reduce stress.

Connecting back to transfers

Knowing your train type and ticketing options is critical for smooth transfers:

• Local → Rapid → Express → Shinkansen: Different fare rules may apply.
• IC cards simplify transfers between different companies or lines, removing the need to buy multiple tickets.
• Always check platform and train type signs when transferring — this avoids confusion at busy stations.

How to transfer trains in Japan

Changing trains in Japan is not as complicated as it looks. Follow these steps to make your transfers smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Step-by-step guide

1. Plan your route in advance
   • Use Google Maps, Navitime, or Japan Transit Planner to see which lines you need.
   • Check for transfer stations and platform numbers. On Google Maps, many times it will tell you which car is best to be in to make your transfers or exits swifter and more efficient.
     
2. Follow the station signs
   • Signs are usually color-coded by line and include English station names.
     
3. Stay inside the ticket gates if possible
   • Transferring within the same company (e.g., JR lines) usually does not require exiting and re-entering.
   • Keep your IC card or ticket ready for tap-in/out if required.
     
4. Exit and re-enter when transferring between companies
   • Example: JR → Tokyo Metro, or private rail → JR.
   • Tap your IC card on both gates; if using paper tickets, insert them at each gate.
     
5. Check the platform number and direction
   • Each line/direction has its own platform.
   • Major stations often display digital boards showing the next train, car composition, and arrival time.
     
6. Use IC cards for convenience
   • Suica, PASMO, and other IC cards automatically calculate fares across most networks, even when transferring between companies.
   • Saves time and avoids buying multiple tickets.
     
7. Special tips for Shinkansen transfers
   • Follow “Transfer to Shinkansen” or “新幹線のりかえ” signs.
   • If using a reserved seat, show your ticket or QR code at the Shinkansen gates.
   • Tap your IC card if using the Welcome Suica app for ticketless Shinkansen travel.

Transfer Cheat Sheet

Transfer type	Action	Ticket / IC card needed	Notes
Local → Local (same company)	Follow signs, stay inside gates	IC card or ticket	Usually no need to exit gates
Local → Local (different company)	Exit & enter new company gate	IC card or ticket	Fare calculated automatically for IC cards
Local → Shinkansen	Follow Shinkansen transfer signs	Shinkansen ticket or Welcome Suica app	Reserved seats may require ticket scan
Shinkansen → Local	Follow signs back to local lines	IC card or paper ticket	Many major stations have clearly marked transfer corridors

Tips for smooth transfers

• Always check which side of the platform your train will arrive on.
• Take note of last trains, especially in smaller cities (usually around midnight).
• Use apps like Navitime, Google Maps, or Welcome Suica to check real-time train info.
• Don’t rush — signage is usually clear, and station staff can usually help in English.

How to transfer between Shinkansen and regular trains

Transferring between Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen and regular trains is easier than it looks once you know the process. Most Shinkansen stations are within or adjacent to major JR stations, making connections straightforward. However, even locals get confused about the process sometimes.

Step-by-step guide

1. Follow the signs to Shinkansen Transfer Gates
   • If your journey includes both a local/regional train and the Shinkansen (e.g., Tokyo → Osaka), look for signs labeled “Shinkansen Transfer” or 新幹線のりかえ.
   • These signs guide you through the shortest route to the Shinkansen platforms.
     
2. Using an IC card (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, etc.)
   • Tap out of the local train area.
   • Tap in again at the Shinkansen gate.
   • Your card automatically calculates the fare for each leg of the journey.
     
3. Using reserved tickets
   • If you have a reserved seat, show your ticket or QR code at the Shinkansen gate.
   • The gate staff will verify your reservation and let you through.
     
4. Using IC and reserved tickets
   • This one is common but can be confusing. Usually, you first insert your reserved ticket and then tap your IC card.
   • If you encounter any problems, staff is always available for assistance.
     
5. Arriving at your destination
   • After exiting the Shinkansen, follow “Transfer to Local Lines” signs if you need to continue on a regular train.
   • Tap your IC card or insert your ticket as needed for the next leg.
     

Example

At Tokyo Station, the JR Yamanote Line connects directly to Shinkansen platforms via internal transfer gates. This allows passengers to switch between a city loop line and high-speed intercity travel without leaving the station. If you find yourself turned around, there is always staff available to help guide you through the gates.

Navigation tips & common mistakes

Even once you understand tickets and transfers, navigating Japan’s train system can still be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to make your journey smoother:

Frequency of trains

• While most trains in major hubs like Tokyo and Osaka run regularly, it is important to know that trains in the countryside are a lot less frequent. 
• If you are not careful with timings, you might find yourself missing a train and having to wait an hour for the next one.

Check the direction

• Some lines, like Tokyo’s Yamanote Line, are circular.
• Always confirm the final destination and train direction to avoid going the wrong way.

Station names may vary

• Large stations often have different names depending on the train company.
  • Example: “Osaka-Umeda” (JR) vs. “Hankyū Umeda” (private rail).
• Follow the line color and symbol rather than just the station name.

Merging of train lines

• Sometimes, train lines merge during your journey. Known as through service (直通運転, chokutsu-unten), this allows seamless travel between different operators by connecting suburban lines with subway systems through junctions and leased trackage.
• It is commonly seen throughout Tokyo.
• While it may seem confusing, just stick to the itinerary that you are following on your journey. Google Maps is good for that.

Don’t forget to tap out

• If you’re using an IC card (Suica, PASMO, etc.), always tap out at your destination.
• Failing to do so may result in being charged the maximum fare.

Keep an eye on last trains

• Most trains stop running around midnight.
• Check schedules in advance, especially if you’re in a suburban or rural area.

Missed your stop? Don’t panic

• If you accidentally go past your station, you can ask station staff for a fare adjustment — called “norikoshi seisan” in Japanese.
• Staff are usually friendly and can help you calculate the correct fare.

Train etiquette

There are many unspoken rules to follow when riding the rails in Japan. Following the proper train etiquette will not only ensure a smooth ride for you, but for others as well.

• Line up properly behind platform markings; wait for passengers to exit first.
• Keep quiet; phone calls are discouraged.
• Luggage: Use overhead racks; avoid blocking aisles.
• Priority seating: For elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.
• Eating: Only on Shinkansen or long-distance trains. Local/metro trips are usually too short.

What are some recommended apps and tools for travelers?

While it seems like Google Maps is the fan favorite of the international community, there are a number of other apps that people like to use to plan their routes and get around Japan.

App / Tool	Purpose
Google Maps	Route planning, transfers, real-time updates, reviews, basic info on businesses
Japan Transit Planner	Shows train lines, times, transfers
Navitime Japan Travel	Offline-friendly route planning
Welcome Suica App	Ticketless Shinkansen, IC card use — for tourists
JR East App	Reserved seats, Shinkansen info

Tips

• Keep your IC card charged (topped up) before starting a trip.
• Use apps to plan transfers in advance, especially for complex stations.
• Take screenshots if you don’t have data on-the-go.

Frequently asked questions about trains in Japan

1. Do I need a separate ticket for each train company?

Transfers between companies are easiest with IC cards, where you will not need to worry about individual tickets. If you are buying individual tickets, then you will, but this is an unnecessary hassle. With Limited Express and Shinkansen trains, you will need separate tickets.

2. How early should I arrive for a Shinkansen?

Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before departure. If you have a reserved seat, make sure to scan your ticket or QR code at the Shinkansen gate. If you miss your train, you should be able to take your ticket to the ticket office and they should give you a new one for free.

3. Can tourists use IC cards?

Yes! Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, and other IC cards are fully usable by tourists. They work on nearly all trains, buses, and even convenience stores. The Welcome Suica app also allows ticketless travel on some Shinkansen routes.

4. Are trains in Japan punctual?

Most trains run on time to the minute, but delays are not as rare as they are advertised. However, most delays are usually only by a few minutes, and they are usually communicated clearly on station displays. Google Maps also includes them in its live features.

5. Can I bring luggage on trains?

Yes. Overhead racks are available for small bags, and larger suitcases can be placed near the seats. On Shinkansen, most trains have dedicated luggage areas.

6. Are trains in Japan safe?

Yes, trains in Japan are extremely safe, clean, and well-maintained. However, while most crime is rare, unfortunately, girls and women need to be careful, as sexual harassment and assault is very common. There are women-only cars during busy hours to help try and combat this.

7. Are trains accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes. Most stations and trains have elevators, ramps, and priority seating. Major stations provide tactile paving and visual/audio announcements. The standard of accessibility has improved in recent years.

8. How crowded do trains get?

Trains in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka can be extremely crowded during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM). Off-peak travel is more comfortable. Trains with reserved seating are the most spacious.

9. Are announcements in English?

On major JR lines and metros in big cities, announcements are usually bilingual (Japanese and English). Smaller stations or private lines may only have Japanese announcements, but signs often include English station names.

10. What if I forget my IC card or ticket?

Go to the station staff or ticket office. They can issue a replacement or calculate your fare. IC cards can usually be recharged or refunded at the station.

Travel by train in Japan with confidence

Once you get a handle on how train transfers and tickets work, you’ll find Japan’s train system much easier to navigate. Don’t forget to keep your IC card charged, follow the signs, and you’ll get anywhere with ease.

For more tips on travel and life in Japan, make sure to check out our blog.