Some links in this guide are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Getting Around & Where to Stay
Updated March 2025Route Planner
Hyperdia / Google Maps
Google Maps has excellent Japan transit coverage. Plan train, metro, and bus routes with real-time schedules.
Airport Transfers
ℹ️ Prices are approximate and may vary — confirm exact fares when booking.
Public Transport
Tickets
Tokyo: single ride JPY 170-320, 24h metro pass JPY 600. IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) work everywhere.
Suica / Pasmo IC Card — tourist transport card for unlimited rides and discounts.
Learn moreTaxis & Rideshare
GO Taxi
app~JPY 500-2,000 (~USD 3-13) city rides
Most popular taxi app in Japan. Works in all major cities.
Visit websiteJapanTaxi
app~JPY 500-2,000 city rides
Large fleet coverage. English interface available.
Visit websiteTraditional taxis
traditional~JPY 500 start + JPY 100/400m
Very clean and reliable. Doors open/close automatically. No tipping.
Intercity Travel
Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
JR Group
Tokyo-Kyoto 2h15m, Tokyo-Osaka 2h30m. JR Pass covers unlimited rides.
Book ticketsJR Pass (7/14/21 day)
JR Group
Unlimited JR trains including most Shinkansen. Must buy before/upon arrival.
Book ticketsHighway Bus (Willer Express)
Willer Express
Overnight buses save a hotel night. Tokyo-Osaka from JPY 3,000.
Book ticketsBudget Airlines (Peach, Jetstar)
Various LCCs
Great for long distances like Tokyo-Sapporo or Tokyo-Okinawa
Book ticketsWhere to Stay
Links below may be affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices as of 2025 — check current rates before booking.
Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge
budgetTokyo
Stylish hostel in Asakusa with great bar and social space
Book on Booking.comHotel Gracery Shinjuku
mid-rangeTokyo
Godzilla on the roof! Great location in Kabukichō
Book on Booking.comHotel Kanra Kyoto
mid-rangeKyoto
Traditional-modern blend, private onsen in rooms
Book on Booking.comUseful Apps
Transport
Suica (Apple Wallet)
Add Suica to Apple Wallet for contactless transit payments across Japan.
Maps & Navigation
Google Maps
Best for Japan transit directions. Shows train times, platform numbers, and walking routes.
DownloadFood & Dining
Translation
Google Translate
Camera mode translates Japanese signs and menus instantly. Essential for kanji.
DownloadJapan Rail Pass
The JR Pass is one of the best travel deals in Japan. A 7-day pass costs about USD 320 and covers unlimited travel on JR trains including most Shinkansen. If you’re visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it pays for itself in 2-3 trips. Buy it online before arrival or at JR offices at major stations.
Using IC Cards
Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card — they work on trains, metros, buses, and even convenience stores and vending machines across Japan. You can now add a Suica directly to Apple Wallet. Charge it at any station machine.
Tips
- Trains run on the minute in Japan — plan accordingly
- Last trains leave around midnight; check schedules to avoid getting stranded
- Highway night buses are a budget trick: save on hotel costs while traveling between cities
- Japan Taxi app accepts credit cards — useful since many restaurants and small shops are cash-only