How to Use Trains in Japan

IC cards, train types, transfers and station navigation.

THE VISUAL QUICK GUIDE

Follow the numbered callouts in each drawing. Open a full-size diagram to inspect the controls on a phone.

Buy a local train ticket

This is a typical paper-ticket journey. The buying example follows Tokyo Metro; machines and payment options vary by railway.

1. 01
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Find the line
      Match its name, color and code.
   2. Find your destination
      Check the station name / number. Similar names can be confusing.
   3. Confirm the fare
      Use a fare map or station search. Check any required transfers.

   Find your station

   Check the railway, destination and fare. A station name search may be available at the machine.

2. 02
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Choose English
      Look for Languages or English. Screen layouts vary.
   2. Pick your journey
      Choose a destination or fare. Check adult / child tickets.
   3. Check, then continue
      Review your selection. Do not choose an IC top-up when buying a paper ticket.

   Choose your ticket

   Switch to English if available. Select your destination or fare, and the correct adult or child ticket.

3. 03
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Insert banknotes
      Use the labelled banknote slot.
   2. Or insert coins
      Use the separate coin opening. Follow the screen prompts.
   3. Take ticket + change
      Check the collection tray. Do not leave your change.

   Pay and collect

   For Tokyo Metro regular tickets, use cash. Collect your ticket and any change before leaving the machine.

4. 04
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Insert at the front
      Choose a paper-ticket gate. Use the slot, not the IC pad.
   2. Take the returned ticket
      Collect it from the top outlet as you pass. Keep it throughout the journey.
   3. Exit with the same ticket
      A completed single-trip ticket is normally kept at final exit.

   Insert, then collect

   Use a gate that accepts paper tickets. Take the ticket returned at entry and keep it for your journey. A completed single-journey ticket is normally retained at the final exit.

From the gate to the train

1. 01
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Platform number
      Follow station signs to it.
   2. Line + direction
      A platform number alone does not identify your train.
   3. Train type + stops
      Express trains may skip stops. Wait behind the safety line.

   Check the platform

   Match the line, destination and stopping pattern. An express service may skip your stop.

2. 02
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Match the car
      For a reserved seat, check your car’s boarding marker.
   2. Let passengers off
      Leave the center clear. Then board from the queue.
   3. Stay behind the line
      Wait until the train has stopped. Keep bags clear of the doors.

   Let people off first

   Wait behind the platform safety line. Let passengers exit, then board without blocking the doors.

3. 03
   Open full-size diagram ↗
   1. Find the line
      Match its name, color and code.
   2. Find your destination
      Check the station name / number. Similar names can be confusing.
   3. Confirm the fare
      Use a fare map or station search. Check any required transfers.

   Exit or transfer

   Follow signs for your next line or exit. If a gate rejects your ticket, ask station staff rather than forcing it.