How to Ride a Train
Train Type
There are various trains running in Japan, mainly JR Group trains and private railways. In addition, subways, trams, ordinary trains, and the Shinkansen that connects long-distance cities are generally the most frequently used trains.
Buying a Ticket (kippu)
First, let us introduce the common ticket. A ticket, also called a boarding pass or "kippu," can be purchased as a paper ticket or an IC card.
Paper tickets can be purchased from a ticket machine or at the station counter.
Basically, you should prepare cash to purchase tickets.
IC cards are used by charging a certain amount of money. They are very convenient because they can be used not only for trains, but also for buses and shopping.
Reference URL:
"Nationwide Inter-Use Service for Transportation System IC Cards," Central Japan Railway Company"
Going through a Ticket Gate
After preparing your ticket or IC card, go through the ticket gate to the platform.
Depending on the station, some ticket gates are for tickets, some are for IC cards, and some accept both tickets and IC cards. Be sure not to make a mistake.
Transfer Information
Specifically in urban areas, routes can be complicated due to multiple lines and train companies.
In addition to Google, it is a good idea to check transfer information and fares in advance with Yahoo !, NAVITIME, Japan Transit Planner (multilingual support available), etc.
Many people download apps to their smartphones and use them.
Reference URL:
Yahoo! Japan Route Information
Japanese https://transit.yahoo.co.jp/
NAVITIME - Map & Transfer Navi
Japanese https://www.navitime.co.jp/transfer/
Japan Transit Planner
Train Manners
Do not call in the car, put your mobile phone in silent mode.
Do not speak loudly.
Do not eat or drink in the car.
Priority seats are for people with disabilities, pregnant women, and the elderly, so usually seats are vacant or do not sit unless there are special circumstances.
Stand in line when waiting for or boarding a train.
What to Do in Such a Case?
1. When you do not know how to get to your destination:
Before boarding a train, check the Internet or a guide for the nearest station to your destination.
Check the route map posted at the station or inside the train to find the nearest station. If you are not sure, ask the station staff or conductor.
2. Lost luggage:
Ask a station attendant or conductor to immediately confirm the process of searching for lost items.
3. When you miss a train:
Get off the train, check the station name, and get back on a train going in the opposite direction.
According to the regulations, you must pay the fare for the section you missed. Please consult with the station staff as soon as possible.
