Trains in Japan

  • Published on : 21/06/2021
  • by : Japan Experience

Train is arguably the best way to uncover lost of  Japan and explore the country differently. 

Shinkansen Bullet Train in Japan

Shinkansen Bullet Train in Japan

@Wikimedia

One major thing to note for trains in Japan is the size of train stations, especially in large cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Stations like Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, Umeda Station, and Shin-Osaka Station act as commercial centers as much as train stations, having restaurants, malls, and offices inside of them as well as servicing multiple train lines. The best thing to do to avoid getting lost in the maze of these large train stations is to know your route well and follow the signs inside.

Local train lines in Japan are identified via a square or round logo with a letter initial. JR lines always start with J (JY for Yamanote, JC for Chuo Line, etc.). The logo and name for these lines will be shown on signs inside stations with arrows pointing in the direction of their entrances and exits. When reaching a certain station, be aware of what lines you need to ride and transfers along the way.

Shinjuku Station, Tokyo

Shinjuku Station, Tokyo

@Wikimedia

Umeda Station, Osaka

Umeda Station, Osaka

@Wikimedia

Taking the Train in Japan

train ticket exchange machines in japan

How to exchange your train tickets in Japan ?

In this article, we’ll detail where and how to exchange the QR code associated with your booking into physical train tickets in Japan - as the country didn’t yet take the leap to digital train tick

Golden week

Golden Week Travel Advice

Japan will celebrate Golden Week from April 29 to May 7, 2023, which comprises four national holidays: Showa Day on April 29, Constitutional Memorial Day on May 3, Greenery Day on May 4, and Childr

Narita Airport Ticket Office

Japan Rail Pass Exchange Offices

Japan Rail Pass Exchange Offices: the major offices throughout Japan where an Exchange Order can be exchanged for a Japan Rail Pass. Below are a few of the 51 offices throughout Japan where th

Train Conductor in Japan

Jorudan

If you want to optimize your time when taking the train in Japan, you should plan your routes well in advance (and ensure that you order your Japan Rail Pass prior to departing for Japan).

See All articles (125)