Tokyo's trains and subways are the best in the world: clean, punctual and extensive. Google Maps gives accurate routes, and signs are in English.
From the airport
From Narita, take the Narita Express or Skyliner to the centre in about an hour; from Haneda, use the monorail or a train, about 30 minutes. Taxis are expensive.
Tickets and passes
Use a Suica or Pasmo IC card (or add one to your phone wallet) on all trains, subways and buses. Single-ride tickets are also available.
Practical tips
- Trains stop around midnight; check the last train.
- Stand on the left on escalators in Tokyo (the right in Osaka).
- Keep your voice down on trains and don't take phone calls.
- Rush hour (8–9am, 6–7pm) is very crowded.
What to avoid
Taxis in traffic: they are slow and expensive.
Seeing Tokyo on foot
Use a Suica or Pasmo card on trains and metros, or add one to your phone. Google Maps works well for navigation.
Prices, ticket rules and safety conditions change. Treat this as a starting point and check official sources and your government's travel advice before you go.
Tokyo getting around questions
How do I get from the airport to central Tokyo?
From Narita, take the Narita Express or Skyliner to the centre in about an hour; from Haneda, use the monorail or a train, about 30 minutes. Taxis are expensive.
Which ticket should I buy in Tokyo?
Use a Suica or Pasmo IC card (or add one to your phone wallet) on all trains, subways and buses. Single-ride tickets are also available.
What is the best way to get around Tokyo?
Tokyo's trains and subways are the best in the world: clean, punctual and extensive. Google Maps gives accurate routes, and signs are in English.