HOW TO TAKE A TRAIN IN JAPAN FOR FOREIGN TOURISTS

Let’s go through the booking process for train tickets right at the station in just a few minutes with GoEMON:

1. Types of Trains

In Japan, different types of trains have varying travel times in different regions. Understanding each type of train will help you make a better choice that suits your needs. Here are the translations of the train types and information on how to purchase tickets:

• Local Train (Kakueki-teisha/Futsu-Densha): Stops at every station.
• Rapid Train (Kaisoku): No difference in ticket prices compared to local trains, but they skip some stations.
• Express Train (Kyuko): No significant price difference compared to local trains. They skip fewer stations than rapid trains.
• Limited Express Train (Tokkyu): These trains stop only at major stations. Ticket prices vary depending on the railway company and can range from 500 yen to 4,000 yen, depending on the distance.
• Shinkansen (Super Express): Operated by JR (Japan Railways), Shinkansen trains have dedicated tracks and stations. With the fastest speed, ticket prices range from 800 yen to 8,000 yen, depending on the distance.

1. How to Purchase Tickets:

For ease of travel, price checking, and ticket purchase on each route, Japanese people prioritize using IC cards to save time and costs. 

Generally, IC cards can be divided into 2 types: one is the plain card and the other with your name and personal information on it. The former can be quickly issued within a few minutes without the need to input any personal details. This type of card is suitable for tourists taking quick trips without requiring extensive registration. However, it is essential to note that if you lose the card, it will not be reissued due to the lack of verification information, so please handle it with care.



The latter takes more time to issue since you need to include your personal information, but it can be reissued if you accidentally lose it. Thus, it is recommended for those living in Japan for long periods.

Step 1: Go to a multi-purpose ticket machine or information counter and select "purchase ticket" to buy a new IC card.

Step 2: Load money onto the card, the amount depending on the distance you will be traveling.

Step 3: Insert the money into the machine or hand it to the attendant and complete the transaction.

Note: If you no longer need the IC card due to reasons such as leaving the country, please return the card to the information counter, and you will receive a refund of 500 yen as a deposit.

GoEMON sincerely hopes that the above information was of use to your Japan trips this summer! 

📷: master3languages