tokyotreat mobile logotokyotreat logo
close button
0
All TopicsNewsCultureJapanese Snacks & CandyFood & DrinkTravelEntertainmentMember Spotlight
A woman on a train coming out of the train station.
A woman on a train coming out of the train station.

Train Stations in Japan: How to Use Them!

Devon Lord-MoncriefDevon Lord-Moncrief
Published Time
Posted on March 12, 2024
Modified Time
Updated last March 15, 2024

Traveling to Japan can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With so many restaurants to dine at, museums to visit, and historical locations, a trip to Japan can take a visitor across the country. However, one of the most important things to remember when visiting Japan is to appropriately using its train stations!

When did train stations debut in Japan?

Japan’s first venture into locomotive transportation began with the US in 1854. Commodore Matthew Perry of the US Navy came to Japan and demanded that the country open itself up to foreign trade. As forceful as this development was, Perry gifted Japan with a quarter-size steam locomotive.

A hazy train station in Japan.
Japan opened its first station in 1872. Image via Shutterstock

Later, after much effort, development, and foreign influence. Japan first began to use trains on October 14th, 1872. The first train ran from Shinbashi, Tokyo, to Yokohama, with Emperor Meiji riding as one of Japan’s first railway passengers. Today, Japan’s trains are easier to use if you remember these five essential tips!

Buy a ticket ahead of time.

As obvious as it may sound, buy a ticket in advance. Japan’s train stations, especially those in Tokyo, can be highly intimidating to those who are not experienced with them. Buying your ticket in advance ensures you know where you are heading, how to get there, and which train you will need to ride. This can be done in person at a station or by purchasing pre-paid travel cards. 

People at a ticket machine.
You can buy tickets and refill IC cards at a ticket machine. Image via Shutterstock

Those traveling frequently during their visit can sign up for a JapanRail ticket at Narita Airport. Many ticket prices are available by checking their respective maps. In Japan, self-service cards such as Suica and Passmo are trendy, and while they are temporarily suspended at the moment, they can still be used via smartphone.

Follow the signs to your train line and platform.

Buying a train ticket and boarding your train seems straightforward. However, many train stations are massive underground centers. It’s easy to get lost, especially during busy work hours. So, check the color of the line you’re traveling on. Follow the corresponding lines to your platform.

Train signs in Shibuya leading to platforms.
There are signs in both English and Japanese that will lead you to the right platform. Image via Shutterstock

For example, the Yamanote Line in Tokyo is light green. Look for signs with that color by the ceiling. Also, look for colored lines on the floor to guide you to your appropriate platform. Japan’s trains arrive at the exact minute they are scheduled for. So, arriving at a platform late can be very upsetting.

Stand in the appropriate place and board safely.

People waiting on a platform at a train station.
Be sure to wait patiently for your train. Image via Shutterstock

It’s important not to block entry and exit paths and to ensure you are not cutting in line when boarding or exiting a train. Many platforms have identifiable lines to stand in while you wait. It can become very hectic when passengers board and exit trains, so keep your bearings.  

Are you looking for some snacks before riding a train? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest spring goodies directly from Japan!

Mind your manners on board.

This is incredibly important no matter where you are in Japan. It’s rude to talk loudly, listen to music loudly, or take up unnecessary space on a train. Sit quietly, use headphones if listening to music or watching videos, keep your bags tucked in and out of the way, and offer your seat to those who might need it more.

A slightly packed train car.
Be sure to mind your manners while riding the train. Image via Shutterstock

When boarding a train, always be aware of who is around you. It can be challenging to maintain a line when crowds of people start crashing against each other but never resort to pushing and forcing your way through. This is equally important when getting off a train, too. The gap between the train and the platform can be dangerous if you enter it or drop a belonging. Always be patient and courteous when boarding or leaving a train, no matter how crowded it can become.

Exit the gates correctly.

Ticket gates at Shinjuku Station.
Always check out at the proper ticket gates. Image via Shutterstock

Leaving a train in Japan can become hectic and stressful as crowds pass you by and line up behind you. When leaving a train, ensure you have arrived at the proper station, have your travel card handy, and scan it properly as you pass through the turnstiles. If using a train ticket, move quickly through the turnstile, as the machine will return your ticket.

Why should I learn how to use train stations in Japan?

Trains are Japan’s most preferred method of travel, whether on small local lines, more extensive city-spanning lines, or even the super-fast bullet trains. Mastering the train systems is imperative no matter where or what time of day you are traveling.

While they are not parts of the physical trains themselves, the many eateries, cafes, shops, and stores in Japanese train stations can be very useful for those in a rush. Finding a quick snack for a short ride or the perfect ekiben for a long shinkansen trip can be a lifesaver.

A train coming out of a train station in Nikko.
Have you ever used a train station in Japan before? Image via Shutterstock

For those who use train stations as vital waypoints during extended travel, finding souvenirs and gifts can be a fun and memorable experience. Learning the layout of a train station is similar to learning how to navigate malls in the US (and knowing where you need to go in a hurry is also super important.)

What was your experience like riding trains in Japan? Did you only stick with the significant Tokyo lines, or did you use smaller local lines? Did you travel on a shinkansen? Please let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear about your adventures in Japan!

Enjoy Delicious Japanese Candy And Snacks Every Month!

Starting from$32.50 USD
Get TokyoTreat

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Enjoy Delicious Japanese Candy And Snacks Every Month!

Starting from$32.50 USD
Get TokyoTreat

Related articles

Travel

Niseko Ski Resort and More Great Places for Adventures in Japan!

Let’s explore what makes Niseko one of many top choices for adventure and discover other thrilling places in the country!

October 01, 2024
Travel

America Mura and Other Cool Osaka Neighborhoods!

Today, we’ll highlight must-visit neighborhoods and popular spots. Get ready to dive into Osaka’s dynamic streets and make the most of your adventure when you touch down in this electrifying city!

August 30, 2024
Travel

Summer in Japan: Cool Things to Do This Year!

The temperature in Japan is rising, and so is the fun! Summer in Japan is in full swing, and with the heat comes lots of fun things to do. If you spend your time wisely, you’ll have fun and forget the heat in no time!  There are many great activities, whether you want to have...

August 30, 2024
Travel

Mitsukoshi and More: A Deep Dive Into Department Stores

Mitsukoshi is one of Japan’s most beloved department stores. It’s more than just a place to get clothes, souvenirs, and accessories. But what is a department store?

August 30, 2024
Culture

Okinawa Japan: Five Hidden Gems to Check Out!

Okinawa is loved not only for its picturesque beaches and perfect subtropical climate but also for its hidden treasures in nature, culture, and history. Let’s discover five hidden gems many people don’t know about this famous tourist destination!

July 31, 2024
Culture

Tokyo Time: Why You Should Visit this Amazing City This Summer!

The city is a unique mix of modern life and traditional culture, offering a variety of experiences for everyone. Tokyo promises a fantastic adventure if you’re interested in its exciting culture, delicious food, or cool technology!

July 30, 2024