Transportation in Japan: What’s the Best Way to Get Around?

Traveling around Japan is a mind-blowing experience in many ways, and one of the things that will surprise you the most (trust me) is how incredibly efficient, punctual, and clean its transportation system is. Whether you’re exploring millennia-old temples in Kyoto, getting lost in the lights of Tokyo, or visiting mountain villages in the Japanese Alps, getting around Japan is part of the journey.

In this guide we tell you everything you need to know to choose the best means of transport according to your route, your budget… and your level of adventure!

Trains in Japan are a real wonder. It’s no exaggeration: they’re famous for their Swiss precision, cleanliness, and comfort. But what really captures all eyes is the mythical bullet train in Japan, known as Shinkansen. These high-speed trains can exceed 320 km/h and connect major cities in a matter of hours.

The best? The landscape. If you take a Shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto, and you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll be able to see Mount Fuji from the window. Literally magical.

Buses in Japan are an ideal choice for more local journeys or for tight budgets. There are city buses, which run through cities such as Kyoto and Nara, and also long-distance night buses (ideal if you want to save on accommodation).

Of course, be prepared to learn how to pay (you usually enter from behind and pay when you get off), and don’t forget that silence is sacred during the trip.

The Japanese subway, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, can feel like a maze at first. But once you understand how it works, it’s super efficient.

Doki Doki tip: download the Google Maps or Navitime app, it will save your life!
And yes, you’re going to get lost at least once. But don’t worry, it has happened to all of us.

If you like quiet journeys with sea views, you will love Japanese ferries . They connect islands such as Okinawa, Shikoku, or Hokkaido and are usually cheaper than the plane. Some even allow you to bring your car.

Are you short of time? Domestic flights are a fast and often cheap option. There are low-cost airlines such as Peach or Jetstar that offer flights for less than €50 if you book in advance.

Taxis in Japan are impeccable… and expensive. They are recommended for short journeys or if you arrive late at night.
Want more freedom? Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas such as the Japanese Alps or the Tohoku region. But be careful: you drive on the left, and you will need an International Driver’s Permit.

These are your best friends so you don’t go crazy:

• Google Maps (Japanese version has exact information about trains and buses)
• Navitime
• Japan Travel by NAVITIME
• Hyperdia (although deprecated, still useful)
• Suica / Pasmo App if you use IC cards

You can buy tickets from vending machines (they have English!) or directly from ticket offices. But if you’re going to travel a lot… Continue in this post and keep reading.

Suica, Pasmo, Icoca and other IC cards are the key to moving easily. Recharge and that’s it: they are available on trains, subways, buses and even in konbini-type stores. You just do “beep” and keep walking. Zero complications!

Use the Narita Express (fast but expensive) or the Keisei Skyliner (cheaper and more direct). There are also limousine buses.

It’s much closer to Tokyo. You can use the monorail, metro or taxi.

The Haruka train takes you directly to Kyoto or Osaka. You also have buses and ferries if you venture further afield.

Especially in Tokyo. Between 7:30 and 9:00… better not even try!

Don’t improvise. Technology in Japan is here to help you. Use apps for schedules, routes, and even translations.

No talking on the phone, no noise, no eating. It sounds strict, but it’s a matter of respect.

Give the seat to pregnant women, elderly people or people with disabilities. And never put your feet in the seat in front of you (even if it’s empty).

• Shinkansen: expensive but very fast.
• Bus: cheap but slow.
• Plane: fast and sometimes cheap if you buy in advance.

The Japan Rail Pass may seem expensive, but if you make several long journeys, it pays for itself 100%. In addition, it includes some buses and ferries. We recommend it if you take at least 5 Shinkansen.

• Willer Express: comfortable and cheap night buses.
• Peach and Jetstar: low cost domestic flights.

• Rikshas (especially in tourist areas such as Asakusa or Kyoto)
• Bicycles (Tokyo and Kyoto have app rental)
• Trams (as in Hiroshima or Hakodate)

Moving around Japan is quite an experience, and the best thing is that there are options for all tastes and budgets. From futuristic trains to quiet ferries, traditional buses and bikes with a view. You choose how to live your adventure!