Whether you’re only visiting Tokyo or you’re getting ready to start your new life in the country of the Rising Sun; knowing your transportation options is crucial for your day to day activities.
So… what are my options?
Let´s start from the most expensive one to the cheapest one.
Own a car
This, in my experience, is probably the most convenient one if you’re planning on travelling far and away all throughout Japan; however if you’re only planning on staying in Tokyo, I would not recommend this option.
Owning a car in Japan is very expensive and if you’re not going to use it daily, please skip this one.
Car Share might also be an option; There are apps for you to rent cars at very low price, however, most of the car owners do not speak well English, but if there is a will, there is a way.
Car Share Apps: Times Car Share / ANYCA
Taxi/Uber
Being one of the most common ways of transportation, using the taxi to get you anywhere is most convenient but also pricey in Japan’s case.
Nonetheless, taxi drivers in this country are very respectful and you don’t even have to open or close the car doors since they do that for you with the click of a button.
Another plus is that you’ll get to your destination way faster if we’re comparing it with the metro or riding a bicycle.
So.. Are you in a hurry? Do you have the cash to afford the rates of a highly respectful and clean taxi? Go for this option.
But what about Uber?
Don’t let the fact that Uber is cheap in other countries fool you, they all work at the same price here, however if you don’t want to struggle with telling your driver your destination and hoping he/she understands you, Uber offers you the convenience of just typing your exact destination and enjoy the wonders of a silent and comfortable ride.
Subway/Metro
Probably the most convenient one, Tokyo has metro stations everywhere with trains leaving every few minutes making it a relatively cheap and fast way to get around in Tokyo. Now do take in consideration that you have to behave mindfully of others so as not to disturb the generally quiet and peaceful (except during the morning/evening/rush hour commute) environment.
Wondering what and how to take a train? We’ll explain this in another article so stay tuned!
Bus
Ah the bus system, please also check the overnight buses, it can save your hotel accommodation fee if you are traveling at a low budget.
Bicycle
The most convenient form of travel for short and medium distances! Try it out while in Tokyo! You’ll see parking spaces for bicycles and it’s really the most comfortable way of moving around. Dare I mention, you’re also working out those legs?
But what about the Shinkansen? A.K.A Bullet Train
This is probably the most expensive transportation, however if you want to get to other places in Japan that are very far from Tokyo, you should consider taking the Bullet Train as it will save you a lot of time and you’ll enjoy the most fascinating views from within the wrold’s fastest train ride.
LCC : Low Cost Carries
Some times it is cheaper for you to travel by LCC airlines.
- Tiger Air
- Vanilla Air
- Peach Airline
- Jetstar
- Skymark
- Airasia
- Airdo
ETC
So there you have it! Let us know what you think in the comments!
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