What if I get on the wrong train?

Get off at the next station and cross to the opposite platform. IC cards only charge you for distance traveled, so wrong directions don't cost extra if you correct quickly.

Do I need exact change?

No. Ticket machines give change, and IC cards work like a debit card. Machines accept 1000, 5000, and 10000 yen notes, though some older ones reject 10000 yen notes.

What if the subway stops running?

Last trains run around midnight. If you miss it, taxis cost 3000-8000 yen depending on distance, or you can wait in 24-hour cafes, karaoke boxes, or manga cafes until first trains at 5am.

Can I use my phone for directions without internet?

Download Tokyo area maps offline in Google Maps before you go. The app works without data for navigation, though real-time updates require internet.

Are there luggage restrictions?

Large suitcases are discouraged during rush hour. Use coin lockers at stations for big bags, or take the Airport Express trains which have luggage space.

How to navigate Tokyo's subway system

Download Google Maps and Hyperdia, buy a rechargeable IC card at any station, and learn to read the color-coded line maps. The system runs from 5am to midnight, costs 140-320 yen per ride, and connects everywhere you need to go in Tokyo.

Get an IC card before your first ride. Buy a Suica or Pasmo card at any ticket machine for 500 yen deposit plus credit. These rechargeable cards work on all trains and many buses, plus convenience stores and vending machines. Touch in and out at the gates.
Download essential apps. Install Google Maps (works offline and shows real-time delays) and Hyperdia (the gold standard for route planning). Both show platform numbers, transfer instructions, and travel times.
Learn the line system basics. Tokyo has two subway operators: Tokyo Metro (9 lines) and Toei (4 lines), plus JR East trains. Each line has a color and letter code (like M for Marunouchi). Stations have numbers (M01, M02) that tell you direction and distance.
Master station navigation. Follow the colored line strips on walls and floors to your platform. Check the destination board to confirm your train direction. Most signs have English, and major stations announce stops in English.
Handle rush hour strategically. Avoid 7:30-9:30am and 5:30-7:30pm when possible. If you must travel during rush hour, let several trains pass if they're packed. Station staff in white gloves will literally push people into cars.
Navigate transfers efficiently. Large stations like Shinjuku have 200+ exits. Before you board, check your app for which exit you need. Follow transfer signs (乗り換え) and stay right on escalators. Transfer walking time can be 10-15 minutes at major hubs.

What if I get on the wrong train?: Get off at the next station and cross to the opposite platform. IC cards only charge you for distance traveled, so wrong directions don't cost extra if you correct quickly.
Do I need exact change?: No. Ticket machines give change, and IC cards work like a debit card. Machines accept 1000, 5000, and 10000 yen notes, though some older ones reject 10000 yen notes.
What if the subway stops running?: Last trains run around midnight. If you miss it, taxis cost 3000-8000 yen depending on distance, or you can wait in 24-hour cafes, karaoke boxes, or manga cafes until first trains at 5am.
Can I use my phone for directions without internet?: Download Tokyo area maps offline in Google Maps before you go. The app works without data for navigation, though real-time updates require internet.
Are there luggage restrictions?: Large suitcases are discouraged during rush hour. Use coin lockers at stations for big bags, or take the Airport Express trains which have luggage space.