Japan Railway Guide: Ticket Purchasing, Types, Etiquette, and Recommended Apps

Japanese trains vary widely in terms of speed, stops, and facilities. Here’s a breakdown of the different train types.

The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed rail network, ideal for long-distance travel, reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h. These trains connect major cities across the country in record time, with routes like the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Shin-Osaka) and the Tohoku Shinkansen (Tokyo to Shin-Aomori).

Shinkansen trains are known for spacious seating and a comfortable ride, equipped with Wi-Fi and other amenities. Passengers can book reserved seats in the Green Car or enjoy even more luxury in "Gran Class" on select JR East routes.

Limited Express trains are primarily used for intercity travel, stopping only at select major stations along long-distance routes. These services typically require seat reservations, and it is recommended to purchase reserved seats in advance. Some Limited Express trains offer non-reserved seats, but during tourist seasons or peak times, seats may be hard to secure.

Express trains fall between Limited Express and Local Trains, balancing speed with a moderate number of stops. They make more stops than Limited Express trains and are a convenient option for reaching local areas. Some routes may require an express ticket, though these are generally cheaper than Limited Express fares.

Semi-Express trains make more frequent stops than Express trains, often servicing urban or suburban areas. They are convenient for commuting and short trips between urban centers and nearby areas.

Local Trains stop at every station along their route and are mainly used for local and short-distance travel. As the most common and affordable type of transportation, Local Trains offer a flexible boarding and alighting option, with ticket prices based on distance traveled. No seat reservations are available.

JR stands for "Japan Railways," the former Japan National Railways, which was privatized in 1987. JR operates in different regions under companies such as JR East and JR West, each covering various areas across Japan. They also offer wide-area rail passes like the JR EAST PASS, allowing for extensive travel across multiple regions.

Subways are ideal for getting around urban areas, often connecting seamlessly with above-ground railways. In Tokyo, Tokyo Metro handles most subway lines, while in Osaka, it's Osaka Metro. Each major city has its own subway network, offering convenient travel within metropolitan areas.

Private railways operate in specific regions, each with unique characteristics depending on the route. In Kanto, Odakyu and Keio lines are prominent, while in Kansai, the Nankai Electric Railway, Hankyu and Hanshin Electric Railway are widely used.

Regular Ticket

A regular ticket is required to board a train for the designated section of travel.

• Single Ticket: A one-time ticket that allows travel on a specific route.
  
• Commuter Pass: A pass that allows unlimited travel within a set period and route.

Limited Express Ticket

To board a Limited Express train, you need both a regular ticket and a Limited Express ticket.

• Reserved Seat Ticket: Ensures a specific seat, allowing for a comfortable, assured journey with advance booking.
  
• Non-Reserved Seat Ticket: No specific seat assignment, so you can choose any available seat. However, seats may be unavailable during busy periods.

• Ticket Machines: Located near ticket gates, where you can buy tickets using cash or a credit card. You can also charge or check the balance of IC cards at these machines.
  
• Ticket Counters: Purchase directly from station staff, especially useful for complex routes or Limited Express and reserved seat tickets when you need detailed guidance.
  
• Apps: Use dedicated smartphone apps to buy mobile tickets in advance, saving time at the station. No need for a physical ticket—simply board the train.

1. Use Your Ticket or IC Card: Insert a paper ticket into the slot at the gate, or for IC cards or credit cards, simply tap them on the reader to pass through. (Please note that the readers for IC cards and credit cards are different.)
*Only contactless-enabled credit cards can be used.

2. Pass Through the Gate: Listen for the confirmation sound and check the gate display as you pass through. If there’s an error, ask the station staff for assistance.

3. Retrieve Your Ticket: If using a paper ticket, retrieve it from the gate and hold on to it until you exit. With an IC card or credit card, there’s no need to retrieve anything.

4. Exit Using the Same Ticket: When leaving, insert your ticket into the gate again or tap your IC card or crdit card to complete your journey and pass through.
*Please note that credit cards are not accepted on all railway lines or by all train operators. If you plan to use one, please check in advance which lines and stations support credit card payments.

For Shinkansen travel, both a regular ticket and a Limited Express ticket are required. Present or insert both at the gate to board.

If using both a paper ticket and an IC card, such as when transferring from local trains to the Shinkansen, you may need to tap the IC card first and then insert the paper ticket.

Waiting on the Platform
Wait inside the yellow safety line on the platform. Step back slightly when the train approaches to ensure safe boarding for everyone, and avoid blocking the doors.

Onboard Manners
Store large bags in the luggage area or at your feet to avoid blocking the aisle. Set your mobile phone to silent mode, and refrain from making calls. Small snacks, gum, and bottled drinks are acceptable, but avoid foods with strong smells or noisy packaging. Eating on Shinkansen trains is common, so enjoying a bento meal onboard is perfectly acceptable.

Priority Seating
Priority seats are reserved for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. Be mindful of others and offer these seats if needed.

Getting Off the Train
Move toward the door as your stop approaches for a smooth exit. Take your time when disembarking, and be careful not to bump into others.

1. Google Maps
Google Maps is widely used around the world and offers reliable maps and live transit data in Japan too. Routes are available for walking, biking, driving, and public transportation.

2. NAVITIME
Covers Japan’s extensive rail, bus, and subway networks. It provides detailed schedules, fare information, route searches, and even information about nearby attractions. It supports multiple languages.

3. Japan Transit Planner
This app was designed with international tourists in mind and supports train and bus searches, transfers, and fare information. It’s available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean.

4. Ekispert
The mobile version of a popular desktop route search tool, offering detailed route searches, fare comparisons, and schedule information. It supports English, Chinese, Korean, and Thai.

Missed Train:
If you miss a train, simply wait for the next one. For Limited Express or reserved tickets, visit the ticket counter to explain your situation for a refund or rebooking. Some Limited Express tickets are non-transferrable, so check with staff for confirmation.

Delays or Cancellations:
In case of delays, check the displays or listen for announcements at the station. Many rail companies offer refunds or alternate transport options. Delay certificates are often available at station counters or online if needed for your schedule.

Lost Items:
If you realize you've lost something, inquire at the nearest station. The staff will assist you in locating the item. For valuable items, filing a police report is also an option.