Is the subway open 24/7?

No. Most lines stop running between midnight and 5:00 AM. Plan your nights out accordingly or budget for an expensive taxi ride.

Why can't I find my specific subway line?

Tokyo is served by two different companies: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. They share the same stations, but you may need to walk through a connecting tunnel to switch between them.

Are the trains confusing?

They are clean and prompt, but the sheer size of stations like Shinjuku can be overwhelming. Follow the color-coded line maps on the floors and walls.

So navigieren Sie durch Tokios U-Bahn-System

Get a Suica or Pasmo card (digital or physical) to tap-and-go through gates without buying individual tickets. Use Google Maps to find your specific platform and exit number, as stations are massive and exits can be blocks apart.

Get your IC card. Add a Suica or Pasmo card to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay. If you have a physical card, you can pick one up at major station machines. If you cannot get a digital one due to phone region restrictions, look for the 'Welcome Suica' or 'Pasmo Passport' at major airport stations.
Use Google Maps for route planning. Input your destination. The app will tell you the exact line (e.g., Ginza Line), the platform number, and which carriage is best to sit in for the fastest transfer or exit.
Locate the correct entrance. Tokyo stations have multiple exits. Check the station map near the ticket gate to find the letter/number exit closest to your final destination (e.g., 'Exit A4') to avoid a 10-minute walk above ground.
Tap in and out. Tap your IC card on the reader at the entry gate. When you exit, tap again. The fare is automatically deducted based on the distance traveled. If your balance is too low, use the 'Fare Adjustment' machine before leaving the gate area.

Is the subway open 24/7?: No. Most lines stop running between midnight and 5:00 AM. Plan your nights out accordingly or budget for an expensive taxi ride.
Why can't I find my specific subway line?: Tokyo is served by two different companies: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. They share the same stations, but you may need to walk through a connecting tunnel to switch between them.
Are the trains confusing?: They are clean and prompt, but the sheer size of stations like Shinjuku can be overwhelming. Follow the color-coded line maps on the floors and walls.