Using Tokyo's Subway

Filed in archive En Route on February 11, 2008

I just came across a great video of some Tokyo subway experiences. Though the video is humorous, it captures some of the subtleties (and not so subtle aspects) of riding the train under the world's largest city.



Aside from the crowds during peak hours, Tokyo's subway has to be one of the world's least complained about trains and stations. Things are very organized. Most signs and ticket machines include English captions and the trains are punctual to a fault. The run every five minutes and are a hell of a lot cheaper than using Taxis.

So there you have it. Unless you are afraid of large crowds, the subway system in Tokyo is pretty user friendly, even for non-Japanese speakers.

The Tokyo Metro web site has maps and even options to buy multiple ride passes. Tokyo can be an intimidating place to visit. But, with a bit of preparation and a few maps, the Subway doesn't have to be.