Tokyo Local Tips

Tokyo’s rail system is a marvel, with dozens of municipal subway and privately held above-ground rail lines. Some of the routes may look indirect, but the trains are timed to the minute, while traveling by taxi is both more expensive and less reliable. Save your ticket – you’ll need it to exit the train system.

Fares on public transportation, sold at vending machines in stations, are based on distance and start at ¥130 (about $1.10). There are fare charts above the machines, or you can just buy the least expensive ticket and pay the difference with the station agent on arrival.

Most signage in train stations, hotels, and other public spaces is in both Japanese and English. English is not spoken nearly as widely in Tokyo as in other major world capitals, although there is usually someone on hand to offer help if you are in need.

While more and more businesses in Japan accept credit cards, cash is still king in many smaller and more traditional shops and restaurants. Japanese bank ATMs generally don’t accept foreign cards, but ATMs at post offices and the ubiquitous 7-Eleven convenience stores do. Check your bank’s withdrawal fees before leaving home.

Addresses in Tokyo are given as buildings within blocks (chome, ‘cho-may’) within districts within wards (ku) within the city. This confounds both foreigners and Japanese and means that you need a map (or for taxis, a GPS system) to get anywhere. Not to worry: Virtually every establishment in Tokyo has a map on its business card or brochure, or staff will fax one to your hotel. If you’re arriving by rail, note the correct numbered exit from the station or you could end up 10 minutes out of your way.

Tokyo phone numbers are eight digits when dialed locally. Within Japan but outside Tokyo, use the prefix 03. From the U.S., dial country code 81 and then the prefix 3 before the eight digits.