Tokyo Public Transportation Tickets & System Information
Tickets & System Information
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo has the world’s largest public transportation network. The corner stone of this network is its extensive train and subway system, however there are many bus routes and one remaining tram line as well. When travelling in Tokyo, its best to use the various train and subway operators.
Distance System
Tokyo’s Subway Fare Map with examples of fares based on distance.
Tokyo operates on a distance fare model. You need to know the price of your ticket before purchasing your fare and beginning your trip. The best way to find out your fare is to use Google Maps.
Tickets
There are several options for you to pay your fare when travelling on busses or subways in Tokyo.
IC Card
Physical Cards
There are two reloadable tap cards that you can use on Tokyo public transit, Suica and Pasmo. These two cards together are referred to as IC Cards. Transfers between operators and lines can be confusing so this is the best. Both Suica and Pasmo cards can be used in the same locations. The only difference between the two is when it comes time to return the cards and get your ¥500 deposit back. Suica is sold by JR East, so you can only return it to JR East fare booths. Pasmo is run by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, so they must be returned there. Most people don’t return their passes and keep them as a souvenir, for a friend or for future trips. When purchasing an IC Card, you can only pay and reload the card using cash.
Digital Cards
IC Cards can be added as digital cards to Apple and Android mobile phones and smart watches. You can even sign up for an IC Card right on your device inside the Apple Pay or Google Pay wallet and then load the card using your mobile wallet balance. For more information on how to register, load and use an IC card on your iPhone, Apple Watch or Android Device, check out the links below. Apple Pay supports Suica and Pasmo while Google Pay supports Suica and Waon (another digital money card in Japan that can be used for transit). You can only add digital cards to Osaifu-Keitai Android devices that were purchased in Japan. Android users visiting Japan from other countries will not be able to use this feature. Apple devices do not have this limitation. Thanks to J Bassett for the correction.
Pasmo is available on iPhone and Apple Watch inside the Wallet app.
Day Passes
Day passes are available for unlimited travel on various combinations of different services in Tokyo. These passes are determined by operator so you can have a Tokyo Metro pass and a Tokyo Metro + Toei Subway pass, etc.
Tokyo Metro 24 Hour Pass - ¥600
Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway:
24 Hour Pass - ¥800
48 Hour Pass - ¥1200
72 Hour Pass - ¥1500
Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, Toei Streetcar, Toei Bus, Nippori-Toneri Liner and JR Lines - ¥1590
Single Ticket
You can also purchase a one way ticket using cash from one of the kiosks in the stations. You must know the amount that is required to get to your destination before purchasing your ticket. The best way to find that amount is to use Google Maps. If you think you purchased the wrong fare, or if you are having trouble finding your destination at the ticket kiosk, there is a little trick you can do. You can purchase the cheapest ticket available, then use a Fare Adjustment machine at your destination to pay the difference of the correct amount.
Japan Rail Pass
If you will be doing a lot of travelling in Japan, it’s best to get a Japan Rail Pass. The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited travel for 7, 14 or 21 days on all JR train and bus routes in Japan. This includes all services operated by JR-East in Tokyo and JR Kyushu, Shikoku, West, Central and Hokkaido in the other regions of Japan. We’re an official vendor of the Japan Rail Pass, which offers you 62% savings!
Detailed Photos
Click the photos below for more detailed descriptions of tickets and fares on Tokyo Public Transit.
Public Transportation Options
Taxi & Ride Sharing Options
Bicycle Rental Options
