Navigating the labyrinth of trains in Japan can be daunting! Even after 10 years here, I still have to mentally map out my route and plan it meticulously because getting on the wrong train and ending up on an express train to the opposite end of the city is no fun. (Ain't nobody got time for that!)
Having a pre-loaded card is essential as you don't have to worry about tickets. A LOT of the stations here have different rail companies using them which means that in one section, you might have two different train lines which have different fee systems. Are you Lost in Translation yet? Don't worry, as long as you have a pre-loaded card, you won't have to worry about it.
Pasmo cards can be bought at the Narita and Haneda and most major train stations. You'll have to pay a deposit of 500 yen but think of it as a worthy souvenir to take home of your train battle(s).
Finding out how to get from point A to B has become much easier than when I first arrived fresh off the boat. I would have to stop at every station masters office and ask where to go. Good grief! Thank goodness for technology.
I primarily use Hyperdia to plan my route within Tokyo but also throughout Japan.
Exhibit A: I have chosen to travel from Shibuya to Tokyo. Two completely different routes, same price, a little difference in time but the major decider for me is the number of transfers. The first route I would need to transfer and the second route will connect me without having to change trains.
How about Tokyo to Kobe?
A Shinkansen you say? 320 km/h you say? If you have the opportunity, take one! But make sure you've prepped your snacks and drinks before you get on. There are ladies with trolleys but the pickings are slim.
A roundtrip from Tokyo to Kobe will cost you around ¥30000. That's about the same price as a JR Pass which allows you to travel for a week across most of Japan - on all JR lines and shinkansens! Make sure you buy it BEFORE arriving in Japan. Take advantage because us "locals" don't get this deal...and don't forget to tap in before you tap out.
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