With over 13 million residents, Tokyo boasts an intricate and efficient transport system that can get you from bustling Shibuya to serene Asakusa in mere minutes. Mastering this network can save you precious time and help you experience more of what Japan's capital has to offer.
Tokyo is served by both Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). If you’re landing at Narita, take the Narita Express (N’EX) train to Tokyo Station for around ¥3,000 (approximately $22), which takes about an hour. From Haneda, the Tokyo Monorail will whisk you to Hamamatsucho Station for around ¥500 ($4), taking 20 minutes. Both options are efficient and direct.
Once you’re in the city, the Tokyo subway system is one of the world’s most extensive and user-friendly. A prepaid Suica or Pasmo card makes hopping on trains and buses easy. You can purchase one at any station for an initial cost of ¥2,000 ($15), which includes a ¥500 deposit. Reload the card as needed; fares typically range from ¥170 to ¥500 ($1.30 to $3.80) depending on your destination.
For a central base, consider the Shinjuku area where you can find a variety of accommodations. The Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, famous for its Godzilla-themed room, starts at around ¥18,000 ($135) per night and is located just steps from Shinjuku Station. Alternatively, for a unique experience, book a capsule hotel like The Millennials Shibuya for about ¥4,500 ($34) per night.
If you prefer a quieter suburb, head to Nakano. The Nakano Broadway area is known for its eclectic shops, and you can stay at Hotel Resol Nakano for approximately ¥12,000 ($90) per night. This area gives you access to a local vibe while still being only a 10-minute train ride from Shinjuku.
Tokyo is a culinary wonderland. For breakfast, try Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sushi at places like Sushi Daiwa, where a breakfast set costs around ¥3,500 ($26). For lunch, venture to the ramen shop Ichiran in Shibuya, where you can dig into a delicious bowl for around ¥1,000 ($7.50) in a solo dining booth for a unique experience.
Dinner options abound in the vibrant Izakayas of Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho alley. Expect to pay around ¥2,500 to ¥5,000 ($19 to $38) per person. For a special night out, visit Sushi Saito, where dinner can exceed ¥30,000 ($225) but is considered one of the best sushi experiences in the world.
Understanding Tokyo’s transport system can seem daunting, but some practical tips will streamline your experience. Always check the last train times, as many lines stop running around midnight. You can use apps like Hyperdia or Google Maps for real-time navigation and schedule updates.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Narita Express to Tokyo Station | ¥3,000 | Direct train, ~60 mins |
| Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho | ¥500 | Quick access from Haneda |
| Hotel Gracery Shinjuku | ¥18,000 | Central location, unique themed rooms |
| Ichiran Ramen | ¥1,000 | Famous for solo dining booths |
| Suica/Pasmo card | ¥2,000 | Includes ¥500 deposit |
| Japan Rail Pass (7 days) | ¥29,110 | Unlimited JR train travel |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
Navigating the Tokyo subway is straightforward if you use a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card to streamline your fare payments. Download the Tokyo Subway App for real-time route planning and schedules in English. Platforms are clearly marked, and most signage is bilingual, making it easy to find your way.
The best times to visit Tokyo are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and festivals abound. Cherry blossoms bloom around late March, while the autumn leaves peak in late November. Make sure to book accommodations early during these peak seasons.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.