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Getting Around Japan: Subways, JR Lines, and Passes by City
Japanese cities mix subways, JR lines, and private railways, which can be confusing at first. Here are the lines you'll use most in each city and the passes worth considering. Fares and pass conditions change often, so check the official websites again before you buy.
City Transport by City
Tokyo
- The JR Yamanote Line loops around the city, linking Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Ueno, and Tokyo Station.
- Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway are run by different companies, so fares are charged separately when you transfer between them.
- If you'll ride the subway several times a day, compare the Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 hours).
Osaka & Kobe
- The Midosuji Line connects Umeda, Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Tennoji in a straight line.
- Kobe is about 30 minutes away on JR, Hankyu, or Hanshin trains.
- If you plan to visit lots of attractions, do the math on the Osaka Amazing Pass (free admissions plus transport).
Kyoto
- City buses cover a dense network but get very crowded in peak season.
- For Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, walking from a Keihan or Hankyu station is often faster.
- You can check the bus line at Kyoto Station on the live cam in advance.
Fukuoka
- On the Airport Line subway, the airport (domestic terminal), Hakata, and Tenjin are just a few stops apart.
- You can get around most of the city by subway and Nishitetsu bus.
Sapporo
- There are three subway lines (Namboku, Tozai, and Toho) plus a streetcar.
- In winter, use the underground walkway (Chi-Ka-Ho) to stay out of the snow.
Okinawa
- In Naha, the Yui Rail monorail is the only rail line.
- For the northern beaches and the Churaumi Aquarium, a rental car or bus tour is the practical choice.
How to Choose Between the JR Pass and Regional Passes
- The nationwide JR Pass pays off when you cover long distances by Shinkansen across several regions, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. If you're staying in one region, a regional pass is cheaper.
- There are separate regional JR passes and private railway passes for areas like Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara), Kyushu, and Hokkaido.
- Some trains aren't covered by passes (certain Shinkansen services and private railways), so check exactly what's included.
Buy Transport Passes in Advance
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Last updated: 2026-10-30
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