Transportation

Once you break free from Customs Clearance, you are now on your own to explore Japan at your leisure! Japan has so many ways of exploring the island - here are some tips:

Railway

This will be your default way of transportation. Download a Train Map for Japan Application on your phone. Most will be GPS based, so you can follow along with where you are as you traverse through the country. From Narita, as you walk out of Customs (at least from International Arrivals), to the right, you’ll see some escalators that will take you down to the floor below where the trains are. You’ll find Keisei and JR Railways down here which will get you started on your way into Japan.

I personally like to stay in Narita City, which is the first stop outside of the airport as I enjoy taking flights, so basic trains are my usual preference. Trains like this are split by "Local (stops at each station on route), Rapid (stops at significant stations on route), or Express (will take you only to major stations and will require a reservation ticket.. While you could take local trains to Tokyo, expect a 2 hour ride before you get anywhere near the metro area. Express tickets can be purchased from both Railway companies at Narita. Sometimes, there are discounts for foreign visitors on the way into Tokyo (usually Tokyo, Ueno, Shinjuku, etc.), so keep an eye out for that. If you are staying in Tokyo, these Express Trains are probably the best option.

If you are staying in Tokyo, you’ll see that the JR Lines has a loop that circles the main stops of Tokyo. It’s a great way to explore Tokyo and it quick and easy to navigate (if you miss a train, another will show up in minutes on this line). When you approach platform, you’ll need to know which direction you’re going, as with this loop, it’ll go clockwise, or counter-clockwise. This is good practise as knowing the final destination of the route will help substantially not waste your time when you travel in more rural areas.

Tips:

  • Some trains, (usually busier/popular) you’ll see a number under each station/stop. That is how long it will take to get there from your current stop. Very helpful for scheduling!

  • If you own an iPhone, you can download the Suica App and use your phone to get through train gates without a physical card. You are also able to add money onto the card online

  • Trains are a quiet place for travelers, so please respect that. It’s always best to observe others in your surroundings and do your best to blend in to avoid being a nuisance. Cultural differences are difficult to pick up, so don’t feel bad if you find yourself overstepping

Air

This is my preferred way to travel the country! You’ll have a few options such as Japan Airlines, Peach, ANA, etc.

This is why I’ve personally tried to stay near the airport, because I LOVE seeing what direct flights there are, especially from Airlines like Peach. I am not affiliated in any way, but they have direct flights to Okinawa, both Naha and Ishigaki, and those stops have been the best highlights for me. While these affordable airlines restrict weight and size of what you can carry, a long weekend getaway to a tropical island is never a bad thing. There are also direct flights to places like Hokkaido, Fukuoka, and Osaka.

Taxi

Some times, you have to do what you have to do. While short drives aren’t terrible, it’s when you miss the last train and you require a taxi ride spanning over an hour ride is where you regret your decisions that night. This is certainly an expensive option, but hard to argue that it’s not convenient as it’s direct. If you need a taxi, they are often found near train stations, or if you’re prepared, available via the “GO” App. It’s a Taxi Hailing service similar to Uber, where pin your location and provide the destination. The fair cost is shown to you beforehand and you’ll get the vehicle’s Plate Registration number to confirm for safety reasons, as well will need to provide the driver with a confirmation number from your booking.

Alternatively, you can use Uber as well. It acts the same way the GO, but not always available, especially in rural or places off of the main island of Japan.