How to get around Japan
Navigating Japan is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
For long-distance travel across Japan, I found that various options cater to different budgets and travel styles. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, offers the fastest way to traverse the country, connecting major cities swiftly. A one-way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, for instance, typically costs around ¥13,320 to ¥15,000 (approximately $90-$100 USD).
While the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including most Shinkansen lines, its price increased significantly in October 2023. A 7-day ordinary pass costs ¥50,000 (around $350 USD), a 14-day pass is ¥80,000, and a 21-day pass is ¥100,000. For many itineraries, purchasing individual tickets or considering regional rail passes may now be more economical.
Domestic flights are a faster alternative for very long distances, such as between Tokyo and Osaka, with fares often comparable to or cheaper than Shinkansen tickets, especially if booked in advance or with low-cost carriers. Typical one-way domestic flights can range from around $60 to $120.
For budget-conscious travelers, highway buses are the most economical option, though they are considerably slower. A bus journey from Tokyo to Kyoto can cost between ¥2,600 and ¥8,000 (around $18-$55 USD), taking about 8.5 to 11 hours. Overnight buses can further save on accommodation costs.
Ferries serve as an alternative for travel to smaller islands or coastal routes, offering a slower, often memorable, experience. Rental cars are best for groups or exploring remote areas, but factor in gasoline and highway tolls.
Travel Within Cities
Within Japanese cities, the public transportation system is highly efficient and reliable. Local trains, subways, and city buses are the most common and affordable ways to get around. A single trip on a city subway or bus typically costs between ¥100 and ¥210 (around $0.70-$1.50 USD), though fares can vary by distance.
Many travelers find prepaid IC cards, such as Suica or Pasmo, to be the most convenient payment method. These cards require a ¥500 deposit and can be topped up with funds for tap-and-go travel on most trains, subways, and buses across major cities. While IC cards do not offer discounts, they eliminate the need to buy individual tickets for each ride.
For intensive sightseeing within a single city, city-specific day passes are often available. For example, a Tokyo Subway Ticket offers unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for ¥800 (24 hours), ¥1,200 (48 hours), or ¥1,500 (72 hours).
Taxis are available but are generally very expensive, with a base fare around ¥400-¥730 (approximately $3-$5 USD) and increasing rapidly with distance. I found them best for short distances or when carrying a lot of luggage. Bicycle rentals are also an economical way to explore cities at a relaxed pace.
