Do I need to buy a ticket every time I ride?

No. Use your IC card (Suica/Pasmo) to tap in and tap out. The system automatically calculates and deducts the fare.

What happens if I get off at the wrong exit?

Don't panic. Look for the station map near the ticket gate to re-orient yourself, or follow signs for the 'Central' or 'West/East' exit to get to street level and use Google Maps to walk the rest of the way.

Is the subway open 24/7?

No. Most lines stop running between 12:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Plan your late-night transport via taxi or stay within walking distance if you plan to party late.

So navigieren Sie wie ein Einheimischer durch die Tokioter U-Bahn

To master the Tokyo subway, download the 'Japan Transit by Jorudan' app, buy a Welcome Suica or Pasmo card upon arrival, and follow the color-coded line signs and numbered exit markers. Ignore the complex maps and focus strictly on your start station, your destination station, and the colored line matching your route.

Get a Digital or Physical IC Card. If you have an iPhone, add a Suica or Pasmo card to your Apple Wallet directly. If you are on Android or prefer physical, go to the ticket machines at any major station (like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station) and buy a 'Welcome Suica' or 'Pasmo Passport' using cash. This replaces paper tickets entirely.
Use the Right App. Download 'Japan Transit by Jorudan'. Input your current station and destination. It will tell you exactly which platform to go to, which car is best to board to be near your transfer, and how much the fare is.
Follow the Platform Numbers and Colors. Tokyo stations are massive. Don't look for the station name on signs; look for the line color and the letter code (e.g., 'M' for Marunouchi Line). Follow the floor markings to the correct boarding point for your specific train car.
Master the Exit System. Tokyo stations have dozens of exits. Before you reach your stop, check the 'Exit' guide in your app or the board on the station wall. Know your exit number (e.g., 'B5') before you walk through the ticket gates, or you may end up 15 minutes away from your destination.

Do I need to buy a ticket every time I ride?: No. Use your IC card (Suica/Pasmo) to tap in and tap out. The system automatically calculates and deducts the fare.
What happens if I get off at the wrong exit?: Don't panic. Look for the station map near the ticket gate to re-orient yourself, or follow signs for the 'Central' or 'West/East' exit to get to street level and use Google Maps to walk the rest of the way.
Is the subway open 24/7?: No. Most lines stop running between 12:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Plan your late-night transport via taxi or stay within walking distance if you plan to party late.