This guide provides information on navigating trains in Japan, including different train types, ticketing options, and etiquette.
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This guide provides information on navigating trains in Japan, including different train types, ticketing options, and etiquette. I also offer dedicated pages on specific topics like shinkansen (bullet trains), Japan Rail Pass, luggage handling, and night trains.

Trains in Japan Categories

Local (kakueki-teisha or futsu-densha): Stops at every station.

Rapid (kaisoku): Skips some stations, offering quicker travel times for a similar fare as local trains.

Express (kyuko): Stops at even fewer stations than rapid trains, with no fare difference compared to local/rapid trains.

Limited Express (tokkyu): Stops only at major stations, requiring an additional limited express fee on top of the base fare. Price varies based on distance (typically 500-4000 yen). JR is one company that charges this fee.

Super Express (shinkansen): High-speed bullet trains operated solely by JR, using dedicated tracks and platforms. Requires a limited express fee in addition to the base fare (typically 800-8000 yen depending on distance).

Trains in Japan Seat Categories

For long-distance travel, passengers on JR trains can choose between ordinary and green (business class) seating. Some bullet trains even offer Gran Class (first class) for the ultimate travel experience. While most local trains only have ordinary cars, green cars offer a more spacious and less crowded environment, though at a cost typically 30% to 50% higher than ordinary seating. Gran Class takes this exclusivity to another level with even more spacious seating and a corresponding price increase.

Moving to seat reservations, most shinkansen and limited express trains offer a mix of non-reserved (jiyū-seki) and reserved (shitei-seki) seating, while a few have only reserved seats. Green car seats are often exclusively reserved, while local, rapid, and express trains typically have all seats non-reserved. Seat reservations typically cost around 300-900 yen, but are free for Japan Rail Pass holders.

trains in japan seats

Buying a Ticket

IC Cards (Suica, Icoca, etc.) Prepaid cards offering a convenient way to pay fares by tapping the card at ticket readers. See my dedicated page for details. Indeed one of the best way to ride trains in Japan.

For short distances (like Metro in Tokyo), head to the ticket machines. Locate your destination and corresponding fare on the map displayed above the machine, showing train lines, stations, and ticket prices. Insert your cash (coins and various bills are accepted) and select the number of tickets needed. The default is one, so solo travelers can skip this step. Finally, press the button matching your ticket price and collect your tickets and change.

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Note that station maps might only be in Japanese. If you struggle to find your destination or fare, buy a ticket for the lowest available price and pay the difference at a fare adjustment machine upon arrival.

trains in japan ticket machines

For long-distance journeys, tickets and seat reservations can be purchased at either manned counters or designated ticket machines. At the counter, provide the following information:

  • number of travelers
  • travel date
  • departure and destination stations
  • desired car type (ordinary or green)
  • seat preference (reserved or non-reserved). If reserving seats, you’ll also need the train name and number or departure time.

Workers at the desk will be happy to help you get the best trains combination needed.

If you do not speak Japanese and there is a lineup, it is recommended that you write the data on a piece of paper and present it to the salesperson in order to make the purchasing process smoother. Special forms for that purpose (some in English) are actually provided at some stations, but are rarely used by customers.

Entering the Paid Fare Zone

Insert your ticket into the automatic ticket gate, collect it on the other side. For shinkansen platforms, pass through a separate set of ticket gates.

trains in japan ticekt gates

Station Platforms

To find your platform, look for signage indicating your train line and direction. These signs are usually in Japanese and English, with a growing number of stations also offering them in Chinese and Korean. Many platforms have floor markings showing where the train doors will open, guiding passengers to line up efficiently. Train drivers are renowned for their precision, stopping the train within centimeters of these markings.

For long-distance trains, additional markings might specify car numbers, car type (ordinary or green), and whether the car offers reserved or non-reserved seating. Be aware that some platforms serve multiple train categories, like local and rapid trains. In such cases, displays will show the next arriving train’s category and, at some stations, the upcoming stations it will stop at.

trains in japan platforms signs

Riding the Train

Passengers should allow exiting passengers to disembark fully before entering the train. Be mindful of blocking the doors, especially in crowded trains. Store backpacks neatly on luggage shelves or on the floor beside your feet, ensuring they don’t obstruct others.

Inside the train, most passengers are typically reading, sleeping, or using their phones. However, phone calls are strictly prohibited except in designated areas of shinkansen and limited express trains. Announcements for upcoming stations and connecting lines are made in Japanese. On shinkansen and other lines popular with foreign visitors, announcements are often made in English as well. Newer trains might have electronic signs displaying the upcoming station and other helpful information.

trains in japan etiquette

At the Destination Station

Station platforms display station names in kanji, hiragana, and English, providing information on both the previous and upcoming stops. Upon reaching your destination, simply exit the paid fare zone through the ticket gates, following the same process as you entered. If you used a single ticket, the machine will retain it upon your exit.

In case you accidentally underpaid your fare, you can settle the difference at a “Fare Adjustment” machine before leaving through the gates. If such a machine is unavailable, the manned gate can also handle the fare adjustment.

Remember, this is just a general guide, and specific details might vary depending on the train company and region. I recommend checking the official websites or asking station staff for assistance if needed.

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Daniele

As a lifelong lover of Japan, its rich culture, and captivating beauty, I organize tours in Japan and help others craft unforgettable journeys to this extraordinary land.

Through my personalized travel planning services, I'll guide you in creating an itinerary that aligns with your interests, ensuring an authentic and immersive Japanese experience. Reach me out now and ask for help!

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