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← Getting around Japan

In the city · Travel · Trains, buses and passes

Trains and subways

Japanese trains are punctual and signs show English and station numbers in the cities. The main things to learn are which company runs your line, which train type stops at your station, and which exit you want.

Stations
Lines have a letter and a number, such as JY17
Train types
Local, rapid, express, limited express
Different companies
May need a separate fare when you transfer

The short answer

  • Follow the line colour and the station number on signs, not just the name.
  • Check the train type on the display. A rapid or express train may skip your stop.
  • Subway lines run by different companies can mean extra fares when you change.
  • Check the exit number before you leave the gate, because big stations have many.

Lines, colours and numbers

Each line has a colour and a letter code, and each station on it has a number. The Yamanote Line in Tokyo is JY, so Shinjuku is JY17. Following the colour and the number is easier than reading station names, especially at a large station.

Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya have both JR lines and private or municipal subways. They are separate companies. In Tokyo the Tokyo Metro and the Toei subway each charge their own fare, so changing between them can cost more than staying on one. A route app shows the full fare.

Train types

On the same track you may find a local train (kakueki-teisha) that stops at every station, and rapid, express and limited express trains that skip stops. Look at the display on the platform for the type and check that your station is listed as a stop.

Limited express (tokkyū) trains often need an extra ticket in addition to the basic fare. On many private railways, a special named train with reserved seats, such as the Romancecar, has its own ticket. Ask at the station or check the app if you are not sure.

Finding the exit

Large stations can have dozens of exits, and the right one can save a long walk above ground. Maps and apps give the exit number, such as "Exit A3", and signs inside show where to go.

Some exits lead straight into a department store or an underground mall. If you are lost, go to a gate and ask the staff. Show them the name of the place on your phone.

Good to know

  • Platforms show where the doors will open, and people queue in lines marked on the floor.
  • Let people get off before you board.
  • The number of cars and the stopping position are printed on the platform.

Words you will see

〜線 -sen
line
〜番線 -bansen
platform number
快速 kaisoku
rapid train
急行 kyūkō
express
〜行き -yuki
bound for

See also

Next guide Buses and taxis

Based on information from JR East, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. Fares and rules checked in November 2026. They change, so confirm current prices with the operator before you buy. Prices are rounded and given in yen. Rules differ between railway companies and regions.