1. Before You Board: How to Buy a Ticket
Buying a Paper Ticket
- Find a ticket vending machine at the station.
- Check the fare to your destination on the route map above the machine.
- Select the fare amount on the screen.
- Insert cash and receive your ticket.
The route map above the ticket machine shows station names and fares.
(This photo was taken at Kokusai-Tenjijo Station on the way back from the Tokyo E-Prix of Formula E.)
It means that the fare to both Shinonome and Tokyo Teleport is 210 yen.
Using an IC Card (Suica, PASMO, etc.)
- Purchase one from a multi-functional vending machine.
- Recharge it using the designated charge machines (often labeled “チャージ”).
- Tap the card on the ticket gate to enter or exit.
- Good news: non-registered (anonymous) Suica cards became available again in March 2025!
2. How to Pass Through the Ticket Gate
If You Have a Paper Ticket
- Insert the ticket into the gate slot to enter.
- Pick it up as it comes out from the other side.
- Do the same when exiting (the ticket will not be returned at your destination).
If You Use an IC Card
- Lightly tap the IC card reader at the gate.
- A beep and green light mean successful entry.
3. Finding the Right Platform and Train
Reading the Signs
- Look for platform numbers and train destinations.
- Timetables and route types are shown as well.
Understanding Train Types
- Local: stops at all stations.
- Rapid / Express: skips some stations — check carefully!
4. How to Ride & Etiquette on Board
- Avoid phone calls; use silent mode.
- During rush hour, turn off your phone near priority seating.
5. Tips for Transferring
- Follow the station signs marked with the line you need.
- Be aware that transfers may involve long walks within the same station.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I board the wrong train?
→ Ask a station staff member for help. You can pay the fare difference.
Q: What’s the fare for children?
→ Ages 6 to 12 pay half the adult fare.
7. Conclusion: Ride with Confidence!
It’s natural to feel unsure the first time you take a train in Japan. But once you understand the basics, it’s a fast, clean, and convenient way to travel. Enjoy your trip and explore with ease!