Tokyo is Japan's capital and one of the world's most dynamic megacities, where ancient temples and shrines coexist alongside gleaming skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. As the cultural, economic, and political heart of Japan, Tokyo offers an unmatched blend of tradition and state-of-the-art modernity across its diverse 23 special wards and surrounding cities.
Tokyo's public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency, punctuality, and coverage. The JR Yamanote Line forms a loop connecting most major neighborhoods, while Tokyo Metro and the Toei Subway fill in dense coverage across the city center. IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo work seamlessly across nearly all trains, subways, and buses, making transfers simple without needing to buy individual tickets.
Transport at a glance
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Tokyo's public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency, punctuality, and coverage. The city has 13 subway lines, extensive JR rail networks, private rail lines, and bus routes, making virtually every corner of the city easily accessible. IC cards like Suica and Pasmo work across all systems. Most locals never need a taxi or car.
Airports
Narita International Airport
Tokyo Haneda Airport
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card on arrival for seamless travel across trains, subways, and buses.
Avoid rush hour, roughly 7:30-9:30 AM, when trains on commuter lines become extremely crowded.
Consider a JR Pass for day trips outside Tokyo, since it covers shinkansen and JR lines nationwide.
Note last train times, generally around midnight, since Tokyo's rail network does not run 24 hours.