How to Buy Tokyo Subway Tickets

One of the problems that foreign residents encounter when they first arrive in Japan is how to ride the train. Tokyo has many subways, so even people who live in Japan can get lost.

In this article, we will introduce how to buy a ticket in Japan, how to compare tickets and Suica, and how to ride the subway. Let’s check the article to make sure you don’t have any problems when you come to Japan.

How to buy a subway ticket in Japan

The way to buy a train ticket in Japan is basically the same at any station. Ticket vending machines are located in front of the ticket gates at each station. You can purchase a ticket from a ticket machine, but it may be a little difficult the first time you touch it.

How much is a trip on Tokyo Subway?

Although there are some lines, such as the Tokyu Setagaya Line and the Toden Arakawa Line, where the fare is the same no matter how far you ride, most lines have different fares depending on the section you board. Therefore, you should first determine which station you will get off at and check the fare.

For example, on the Tokyo Metro, the minimum fare is 170 yen, followed by 200 yen, 250 yen, 290 yen, and 320 yen, depending on the distance. Naturally, the fare will change for long-distance lines and short-distance lines, so check the fare for each line.

One way to check is to look at the route map in front of the station ticket gates.

Purchase a ticket from a ticket machine

Basically every station has a route map posted above the ticket office. Fares are posted at each station. Check the route map to see which line you want to take and the fare.

Go through the automatic ticket gate

Next, head to the ticket gate and insert your ticket into the automatic ticket gate machine to enter the premises. Note that some ticket gate machines are for IC cards only, so if you have a ticket, only a limited number of ticket gate machines will let you through.

If it is troublesome to check the fare, purchase the ticket with the lowest fare and insert the ticket into the fare adjustment machine at the station where you get off. You can also put the ticket through the ticket gate and exit through the ticket gate.

When taking the Shinkansen or limited express train

When boarding a long-distance train such as the JR Shinkansen or limited express, go to the ticket counter called Midori-no Madoguchi. Basically, there is always an attendant on duty, so just tell them where you want to get off the train, your seat preference, and so on, and they will help you.

At smaller stations, there is only one ticket window, and you may have to wait your turn, so it is recommended that you allow plenty of time so that you do not panic if you want to catch a train that is 10 minutes away.

Can I use WiFi on the Tokyo subway?

WiFi may be available on subways in Tokyo. Some subway lines have free WiFi, but it can be difficult to connect and the connection speed can be slow. There may also be time limits, so be sure to check what kind of service the free WiFi service provides.

Some free WiFi is not safe, so it is not recommended for tourists coming to Japan from abroad.

What is Pocket WiFi Rental?

So, can’t I use the Internet on the train? No, that is not true. You can rent a pocket WiFi in advance. If you rent a pocket WiFi, you can search the Internet on the train without any problem. Below are recommended Pocket WiFi rental companies and devices.

WiFi rental at Tokyo Station

Can I rent a pocket WiFi if I need one urgently at Tokyo Station? Yes, WiFiBOX offers same-day rentals. Click the button below to find a pocket WiFi you can rent at Tokyo Station.

Tokyo Subway Ticket vs Suica

When boarding a train in Japan, in addition to buying a ticket and entering the ticket gate, there are other ways to pass through the ticket gate by touching an IC card called PASMO or Suica. In Japan, using PASMO or Suica is more common than using a ticket. But which is better for travelers coming from overseas? Here are the advantages of each.

Advantages of Tickets

Basically, Suica is more convenient than a ticket. In fact, I rarely use a ticket anymore. The advantage is that if you are using mobile Suica, it is useful in case your phone runs out of charge or has a malfunction. However, if you are coming to Japan from overseas, you can use the Tokyo Subway Ticket. Tokyo Subway Ticket later on will be introduced.

Advantages of Suica

Suica is an IC card that is often used by Japanese people, and there are many advantages to using Suica; Suica can be taken home as a souvenir, and is more recommended if you are a frequent visitor to Japan.

・It is possible to pass through ticket gates with a touch.
・Payment can be made at convenience stores.
・With Mobile Suica, there is no need to make a deposit, only recharge.

Can I use Suica on Tokyo Metro?

Suica can be used on the Tokyo Metro. In addition to the Tokyo Metro, Suica can be used on basically all other lines, with the exception of the Shinkansen and other lines. In addition to trains, Suica can also be used on buses and in restaurants. All of them can be handled smoothly as the payment is made by touch.

Tokyo Subway pass for tourist

What is the Tokyo Subway Ticket?

The Tokyo Subway Ticket is recommended for those seeking the most affordable method. It is the most economical for tourists as it allows unlimited rides within a limited time. It is also recommended for those staying at hotels near subway stations.

This service is available only for two subway lines in Tokyo; it is not available for JR or other private railways. However, you can get to most major spots on all Tokyo Metro lines and all Toei Subway lines.

You need to understand the difference between the Tokyo subway and other train lines. And you need to buy tickets for trains not covered by the two subways.

Where can I purchase Tokyo Subway tickets?

Tokyo Metro tickets can be purchased at Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, major stations in Tokyo, and information centers. My recommendation is to purchase tickets at the airport about Japan. Some stations in Japan are complicated, so it is best to get them at the airport beforehand. For detailed locations, click here.

When purchasing, you will need to confirm your short-stay visa in your passport. At the time of purchase, you will need to show whether your passport is stamped with a short-stay entry stamp or sticker, so please have it ready beforehand.

What plans are available for Tokyo Subway tickets?

There are three plans for Tokyo Metro tickets. In addition to the plans, here are the amounts and valid routes. Please refer to the table below for your consideration.

Plan	Tokyo Subway 24-hour ticket Tokyo Subway 48-hour ticket Tokyo Subway 72-hour ticket
Price	24-hour ticket – Adult: 800 yen, Child: 400 yen 48-hour ticket – Adult: 1,200 yen, Child: 600 yen 72-hour ticket – Adult: 1,500 yen, Child: 750 yen
Expiration Date	Valid within 24 hours of purchase Valid within 48 hours of purchase Valid within 72 hours after purchase
Valid Routes	All Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines
Purchasing Eligibility	Foreign tourists visiting Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa

Summary