Short answer: Public transport in Japan is very safe, reliable, and easy to use.
Many first-time visitors worry about trains and buses:
・“Which train should I take?”
・“How do I pay?”
・“What if I get on the wrong train or bus?”
Don’t worry. Once you know a few simple rules, traveling around Japan is smooth and even fun!
1. How to Use Trains in Japan
・Most cities have subway and train systems. Major cities include Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka.
・Trains are on time, often to the minute.
・Signs and station maps usually have English. Look for English station names and maps at the ticket gate.(It’s fastest and easiest to look it up on Google Maps.)
・Tickets can be bought at machines, or you can use a rechargeable IC card like Suica or Pasmo.
・Keep small change if paying cash.
How to buy an IC card
1. Find a ticket machine or a station counter that sells IC cards.
2. Pay the initial amount (usually 2,000–3,000 yen, which includes a 500 yen deposit and 1,500–2,500 yen usable balance).
💡Returning the IC card will refund the deposit (500 yen). However, any remaining balance will not be refunded.
How to charge (reload) an IC card
1. Go to a ticket machine, automatic charge machines or convenience store registers (konbini).
2. Insert your card, choose “Charge / Top-up,” and select the amount.
How to use an IC card
・Tap the card on the reader at the ticket gate when entering and leaving the station.
・You can also use it on most buses by tapping when boarding and leaving.
・No need to calculate the fare; the system deducts the correct amount automatically.
💡If your balance is insufficient, the gate will alert you. You can always top-up before exiting.
Other uses
・It can also be used at convenience stores, vending machines and some restaurants.
・You can use it at coin lockers in stations. Simply tap the IC card to lock or unlock making it very convenient
💡We explain it in more detail here👉Step16: Get and Use an IC Card (PASMO)
2. How to Use Buses in Japan
・Buses are very useful, especially outside major city centers.
・Some buses require payment when you get on, others when you get off.
・Many buses accept IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for easy payment.
・If you are confused, show your route on Google Maps or a printed address. Bus drivers are usually helpful.
3. How to Use the Shinkansen(Bullet Train) in Japan
・Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
・Trains are extremely punctual — almost never late.
・There are different types of Shinkansen: Nozomi (fastest), Hikari (slightly slower), Kodama (stops at every station).
・Tickets can be reserved in advance (no extra fee with JR Pass) or purchased at ticket machines and counters.
・Trains have reserved and non-reserved cars — It’s better to reserve a seat. (You can change to a reserved seat for only about ￥530)
・Luggage space is limited; bring only what you can manage, or use the overhead racks.
・Shinkansen stations are well-signposted in English, and Google Maps works well for planning your route.
4. How to Use Taxis in Japan
・Taxis in Japan are safe, clean, and easy to use, but they are more expensive than trains and buses.
・You can usually find taxis at airports, train stations, hotels, and major tourist areas.
・Most taxis have automatic doors — they open and close for you.
・You do not need to tip in Japan. The fare shown on the meter is the final amount you pay.
・As many drivers do not speak English, it is helpful to show your destination on Google Maps or a translation app.
・Credit cards and IC cards are accepted in many taxis, but cash is still commonly used.
💡If you need a taxi during your trip, we recommend using a taxi app in Japan, as it is the easiest and most convenient way to book one.
We explain it in more detail here👉GO (Taxi app for Japan)
4. How to Use Rental Cars in Japan
・For traveling between cities or sightseeing in major cities, renting a car is usually unnecessary. You can get around using public transport.
・When renting a car can be useful
👉Visiting rural areas or islands with limited public transportation. Wanting the freedom to explore tourist spots at your own pace
💡Japan drives on the left side of the road with right-hand drive vehicles. Be careful if you are not used to it. Traffic rules can also be a bit complex in urban areas.
5. How to Travel Economically in Japan (JR Pass)
By choosing the right transportation, you can enjoy Japan economically. Using the JR Pass wisely can save you both time and money.
When the JR Pass is Worth It
・Traveling to multiple cities in a short time → e.g., Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Hiroshima
・Taking Shinkansen (Hikari/Kodama) frequently
・Combining long-distance travel with IC cards for city transport
When the JR Pass Might Not Be Cost-Effective
・Traveling mainly within one city
・Visiting only 1–2 cities on a short trip
・Not planning to use seat reservations or extra services
Who Can Use the JR Pass
・Foreign visitors holding a passport from outside Japan with a “short-term stay” stamp or sticker at entry.
・Children under 12 can use the JR Pass if traveling with a parent who is eligible.
Important Notes
・Cannot be used if entering Japan under “training,” “entertainment,” “re-entry,” or other visa statuses.
・If using an automated gate, you will not get a stamp. Make sure to get your stamp at a staffed counter.
How to Use the JR Pass
・Purchase before arriving in Japan, then exchange at the airport or station
・Valid on JR trains including Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho), JR buses, and JR ferries
・Cannot be used on private trains or city buses
・No extra charge for seat reservations
| Type | Ordinary Car (Standard class) | Green Car (First Class) | ||
| Adult | Child(ages 6-11) | Adult | Child(ages 6-11) | |
| 7days | ￥50,000 | ￥25,000 | ￥70,000 | ￥35,000 |
| 14days | ￥80,000 | ￥40,000 | ￥110,000 | ￥55,000 |
| 21days | ￥100,000 | ￥50,000 | ￥140,000 | ￥70,000 |
・Children under 6 can ride for free, but they need a child JR Pass if they use a seat or make a reservation.
・For more details, please check the official website. You can also purchase a JR Pass from this website JAPAN RAIL PASS
💡Using the JR Pass can save both time and money. Even first-time travelers can travel efficiently and comfortably by using the JR Pass wisely.
💡 Key Point
・Japan’s public transport is safe, punctual, and easy to use.
・An IC card makes city travel simple and convenient.
・The JR Pass can help you save money on long-distance trips.
・English signs and Google Maps make navigation stress