In major Japanese cities, using trains for transportation is more convenient than cars. Japan’s railway system is highly efficient, with a wide variety of train types and routes, allowing for fast and safe travel. Let’s discuss Japanese trains in more detail.

Photo : Mまちゃー /PIXTA

Types of Trains in Japan

Japanese trains are known for their punctuality, with minimal delays except in exceptional circumstances, and they run at a frequency of approximately every 3 to 5 minutes in densely populated areas. Consequently, trains are widely used for commuting, school, and tourism. Japanese railway companies can be categorized into three main groups:

1, JR (Japan Railways): Previously operated as the national railway, JR now consists of six passenger companies (and one freight company). JR also operates the Shinkansen (bullet trains).

2, Major Private Railway Companies: These private railway companies serve major cities and their surrounding areas, including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. There are 16 major private railway companies in total.

3, Other Railway Companies, Monorails, Trams, etc.: Japan has over 100 additional railway companies, including short-line railways. These serve various regions and purposes.

For long-distance travel between cities or in rural areas, you’ll often use JR lines or flights. Once you arrive at your destination, you can consider using private railways, buses, or rental cars to reach your final destination.

To board a train, you’ll need either a ticket or an IC card.

Sui,ca & Pasmo

Tickets and IC cards (such as Suica, ICOCA, PASMO) can be purchased at ticket vending machines in stations. IC cards are preloaded with funds and automatically deduct the fare for your journey. Using an IC card is simple; just touch the card to the IC card reader on top of the ticket gate when entering and exiting the station. The fare and card balance will be displayed on the gate’s screen. If your IC card balance runs low, you can recharge it at ticket vending machines or convenience stores. At ticket vending machines, press the “Charge” button, select the amount, and insert the money. At convenience stores, inform the cashier of the amount you’d like to charge, and hand over the money. IC cards can be used not only for trains but also for buses, taxis, convenience stores, and vending machines, making them extremely convenient to use.

Checklist and Boarding Procedures at the Departure Station

Scenery Inside the Train StationStation, , Photo:ニングル /PIXTA

Upon arriving at the station, start by checking the station’s information boards. Confirm the destination station’s name, the line, route details, fares, and, if necessary, departure times. You can also find this information online or through smartphone apps. Choose the best transfer station for your destination. In many cities, major stations like Tokyo Station in Tokyo or Osaka Station in Osaka are common transfer points.

To pay the fare to your destination, purchase a ticket from a ticket vending machine. Depending on the type of ticket, you may need to input the fare amount and the destination station or line name. If you’re using an IC card, there’s no need to buy a separate ticket; just touch the card to the IC card reader.

After passing through the ticket gate by inserting your ticket or touching your IC card, head to the platform indicated on the station’s information boards. Pay attention to the train’s departure time. When the train arrives, board it. If you have a reserved seat ticket, find your designated seat. If not, choose an available seat.

Following these steps will ensure a smooth and hassle-free train journey in Japan.

Transferring Trains and Arriving at Your Destination

If you need to transfer trains on your way to your destination, exit the train at the transfer station, and before passing through the ticket gate, check the transfer information board. Then, head to the platform for your next train. If the transfer is to another line operated by the same company, you usually don’t need to exit through the ticket gate. However, if it’s a different railway company, you may need to exit and reinsert your ticket or IC card. Once you arrive at the transfer platform, confirm the train type and destination and make sure you board the correct train.

If necessary, repeat these steps at multiple transfer stations. When you arrive at your destination station, use your ticket to exit through the ticket gate or tap your IC card to pass through. Exit directions are usually provided based on your destination station.

Japanese trains are known for their punctuality, cleanliness, and safety. They also offer English signage and announcements, making them user-friendly for travelers from abroad. Additionally, using Japanese transportation IC cards and apps can further enhance your convenience when transferring.

Useful Information for Transfers: Websites and Apps for Visitors to Japan

Here are some websites and apps suitable for checking train departure times and transfer information in Japan:

Japan Transit Planner Web (Multilingual): This service allows you to search for routes and fares using trains and airplanes throughout Japan. It supports multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean.
https://world.jorudan.co.jp/

Japan Transit Planner App (Multilingual): Provided by Jorudan Corporation, this app offers multilingual transit information services, including input and display using station numbering.
https://tabunka.tokyo-tsunagari.or.jp/topics/pick_up/pu_2001.html

JAPAN TRAVEL for NAVI TIME: This website provides information in English for travelers in Japan, including train schedules.
https://www.navitime.co.jp/pcstorage/html/japan_travel/english/

Using these websites and apps can greatly facilitate your train travel experience in Japan.

Types of Trains and Crowding

Trains on different routes in Japan are classified into various types, such as “local,” “semi-express,” “rapid,” “express,” and “limited express.” These classifications are based on the number of stops and the speed of arrival, varying for each railway line. For example, local trains stop at every station, while other types skip some stations to arrive at major ones more quickly. You can check which stations a train stops at using information boards within the station or apps. Additionally, note that there may be additional fares for riding express or limited express trains on JR lines, and this can vary by private railway companies, so confirm at the station.

During morning and evening rush hours, express and limited express trains can become very crowded. Therefore, consider your destination and the time you plan to travel, and choose your train type accordingly.

Train Etiquette

Let me introduce some good manners to keep in mind when riding the train. Please make an effort to remember them.

Offer Priority Seats:
Inside the train, there are seats designated as priority seats. These seats are provided for the following people: Elderly individuals, People with disabilities, Pregnant women
You can sit in these seats when the train is not crowded, but if any of the above-mentioned individuals board the train and there are no other available seats, it would be appreciated if you could offer them your seat.

Avoid Talking on the Phone:
In Japan, most people refrain from making phone calls while on the train. Speaking loudly on the phone can be bothersome to others, so it is recommended to avoid it to prevent any trouble.

Hold Your Backpack in Front During Crowded Times:
During crowded times, holding your backpack in front of you can help avoid inconveniencing people behind you. If there are overhead racks available, it’s best to place your backpack there.

Train’s Overhead Rack:
If you have large items like suitcases that cannot be placed in the overhead rack, try to position them in a way that doesn’t disturb others as much as possible.

Take your trash with you:
While there may be trash bins on the train, it’s a good habit to take your trash with you. Let’s make sure we don’t compromise the comfort of others.

If you have large items like suitcases that cannot be placed in the overhead rack, try to position them in a way that doesn’t disturb others as much as possible.

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