The number one question I get asked the most (besides where to eat), is how to get around in Japan. The spiderwebs of routes can definitely be intimidating, but I’ve pulled together this quick guide on my preferred transit provider – Tokyo Metro. Check out how my guide on how to use the Tokyo Subway Ticket below!
The Tokyo Subway Ticket is a pass available for tourists at a special discount that is the best way to explore Tokyo in a cost-effective way. There are three types: 24 hour, 48 hour and 72 hour. They are valid from the moment you tap in for the length of time that is stated on your pass.
How much does the the Tokyo Subway Ticket cost?
The price breakdown:
- Tokyo Subway 24-hour Ticket – Adult: 800 yen (~$7.50 CAD), Child: 400 yen (~$4CAD)
- Tokyo Subway 48-hour Ticket – Adult: 1,200 yen (~$11 CAD), Child: 600 yen (~$6 CAD)
- Tokyo Subway 72-hour Ticket – Adult: 1,500 yen (~$14 CAD), Child: 750 yen (~$7 CAD)
The tickets are easily available for purchase at the airport (Haneda and Narita), at the Tokyo Metro Information and Pass Offices in each station, select BIC Camera locations, and various hotels. For a full listing click here. For your convenience you can always book a hotel that has the passes available.
How to use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
First, I map out the number of days that I will be in Tokyo. Next, I calculate the number of tickets I’ll need. Usually it’s a combination of the 72-hour ones and 48-hour ones. There is no limit to the number of tickets you purchase. However, you need to present your passport at time of purchase to verify that you are a tourist.
TIP: If you’re coming from the airport you can purchase an Airport Limo pass to get into the city and this ticket is usually bundled with a bonus subway ticket. The available combinations can be found here.
The main perk of utilizing this special ticket (besides the cost savings!) is that you won’t need to fiddle with the ticket machines at the station. This ticket gives you access to the entire Tokyo Metro network and it’s easy to tap in and out.
How to read Tokyo Metro Station Numbers
Although the map of the Tokyo Metro can look intimidating. Once you break it down it isn’t that complicated. There are 9 main lines:
They are colour coded so you just need to follow the colours on the main station map. Each station has a letter symbol and number so it’s easy to count how many stops you need to go! In my experience I mainly use the Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, Ginza Line and Hibiya Line.
Check out my post here on how to best incorporate the Tokyo Subway Ticket into your Japan travels to save money and maximize your time.