How to Take the Train in Japan Step by Step Guide

[@mmcc1936]

Thank you for SHOWING the Reserve button on the ticket machine, the credit card reader, etc.

[@PedroBrazz]

Is SO EXITING when people ask in this videos "are u traveling to Japan?" and my awser is "YES!!!"

[@mythilirajendra3478]

Hahaha same, I leave tomorrow 🎉

[@ValerinaDaisyDays]

Im so lucky to watch this video. I get stressed fast when I'm lost and I will become overwhelmed so I'm glad I can study this before I go to Japan. I think Japan's extensive rail system is one of the most difficult mode of transport I am ever going to take

[@slshippee1]

Most helpful video on novice visitors to Japan I've seen on KZbin. Appreciate the efforts that went into this work.

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you for the comment Steven, much appreciated. Mike

[@benning8029]

Excellent illustrations in the area of using a very complex transportation system in Japan. Really appreciated your knowledge and expertise!

[@mikeinjap]

Hello Ben, thank you for the comment, much appreciated!

[@henryyan7250]

Honestly, this should be the authoritative video for Japan train travel. Thanks a bunch for doing this!

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it!

[@anamgulraiz4987]

Thank you!!! First time in Japan and this is very helpful

[@LuckyG999]

Indeed. It is so useful that I came back for my revision class 😊

[@ryansupersticioso]

@mikeinjap please create more videos like this! This is the most informative video I've seen so far and I appreciate your effort and time investment in creating this. SO INFORMATIVE. Im going back to Tokyo this year and being stuck in my country for 2 years, I need some review again. You just gained a new subscriber. Much love and support from the Philippines. Arigato!

[@mikeinjap]

Hi Ryan, thanks for the subscription. Glad it was helpful!

[@josephlai9759]

Very comprehensive information. Thank you.

[@MsWalter22]

So far most helpful and simple video for first timers like me related to the commute system of Japan. Thank you!

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome! Thank you.

[@axios101]

Hi and thanks from Italy! This video is TERRIFICALLY USEFUL!!! Very well explained and complete!

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome, glad it was helpful to you.

[@tonyvictor5017]

Im visiting Japan In january and found this video a great help for tourist visiting Japan for the first time

[@anavictoriagonzalezhijuelo2249]

So useful, I was starting to panic at the idea of getting lost or taking the wrong train, but your video explains the whole theme very well. Thank you so much

[@sharonv]

This is the most informative video on KZbin about transportation in Japan! Thank you for sharing the Japan Travel app! It's way much better than using Google maps!👏👍

[@bz10000]

I saw very many explanations on the KZbin and yours are the best and exactly what need to be. Great ❤

[@mikeinjap]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cherylparkin8094]

Thank you so much showing how to register step by step I’m coming to Japan in July Kind of overwhelming !

[@mikeinjap]

You will be fine! Have an awesome trip!

[@CurwynR]

Thank you for sharing this useful information for clueless travellers like myself 🙏

[@nl8644]

Great video! Many thanks🙂

[@borgielee]

The most helpful video for first time visitor.Thank you!

[@yumigormley3521]

So glad I found you! Thank you for the detailed information! This is exactly what I need for upcoming trip to Japan.

[@mikeinjap]

Thanks for the reply. Have an awesome trip!

[@url.Natalia]

I’m going to Japan in April for the first time. Your tips are very helpful for me. Thank you so much❣️

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome, glad it was helpful to you.

[@maiwurld2578]

Me too! Exited and nervous !

[@kimkamkun09]

Your video is the most educational video I watched regarding riding japanese trains a really really big thank you to your knowledge

[@old-soul]

Thank you for this very informative and helpful video. This is just what I need. New subscriber here 👍👍

[@janicemiel2210]

This has been one of the most helpful videos I have seen. Thank you!!!

[@mikeinjap]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you very much.

[@ji1511]

Very informative, clear and comprehensive guide. Its still very helpful for a foreigner now living here. Also, don't worry, your speech is clear n definitely more articulate than some other videos.😊

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you for the comment. My speaking has actually adapted to suit non native english speakers after teaching English here.

[@ji1511]

@@mikeinjap No worries, I did think you sounded Australian.... then I read yr profile n confirmed my thots. A lot of my time is spent between here, there and home in Asia. It's commendable that you can speak 3 languages or more. Definitely more than the average person. 😊

[@thomasgoh699]

Very useful video for travelling to Japan. Thank you!!

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you, glad it was useful!

[@gerrikim8545]

Thank you so much ❤❤❤❤❤this is so clear and helpful, great thorough information with enough detail without it being too complicated ❤❤❤❤❤

[@KanadeEngel]

Thank you so much for the Video, it will be so helpful not to get lost on my Travel next year. Greetings from Germany :)

[@jeizschey]

I'm travelling to japan next month and this is super helpful! Thank you ❤

[@mikeinjap]

You're welcome, have an awesome trip!

[@Tom-cbd1313]

Thanks Mike, really found your video useful and informative.

[@kitpipat100]

Thank you so much for sharing. This video is very useful, and you explained it very clearly. 👍 👍 👍

[@percy2600]

Great find. I had been watching tips on where to go to in Kyoto/Osaka but your video has the content in detail on how to use your transportation system. I greatly appreciate it. Thank you.

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome, glad it was helpful to you.

[@TodoTravelShop]

Visiting Japan soon, and this video clarified a lot of questions! Thanks so much for sharing this vital information.

[@mikeinjap]

Hello their, you are very welcome, glad it was useful.

[@vsky2269]

Very Informative.Thank you Very much fr England.

[@thomasyu2000]

Thank you very much, after watched your vlog. I feel more confident in my up coming trip in Japan.

[@mikeinjap]

Hi Thomas, hope you have a great trip to Japan!

[@terrymurphy3723]

thank you that was so helpfull we are coming to tokyo in may best video i have seen keep them coming

[@mikeinjap]

Hello Terry, thanks for the comment. Hope you have an awesome trip!

[@eileenahuva242]

It will be my first trip to Japan in March next year and your video was very informative, thank you! 😊

[@mikeinjap]

Awesome, thank you. hope you have a great trip. March is a great time for the cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

[@trc0o0az]

Thank you for the detailed explanation. Have a nice day 😊

[@randylivininsurprise5789]

You are awesome. I have viewed several videos. This is really helpful and easy to understand. Thank you!

[@mikeinjap]

Hello randy, thanks for the comment. Glad it was helpful.

[@edwardmarquez1799]

Thank you SO much for making this video.

[@dreamerforever6513]

Thank you for your detailed and useful information. I'll be in Japan in two months.

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome, hope you have a great trip!

[@njbergavera]

So informative!! Thank you for this. I was able to continue with my DIY itinerary to Osaka this coming month 😊

[@mikeinjap]

Hello Nicah, thank for the comment. Have a great trip!

[@pandaed2009]

Thank you for sharing, it makes it easy for me to plan my trip to Japan end of this year. Cheers

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you for the comment. Have an awesome trip!

[@ussyrusmiatidewi7108]

So helpful & informative 👍🏻 thank you so much!

[@royborda]

Very informative, detailed. Thank you for creating this video.

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome. Thanks.

[@Macky_Mouse]

Thank you for the App it will be really helpful... that's the most part I'm scared to go to Japan.

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome. Glad it was helpful.

[@pan3da4]

Thank you, this video is really useful 😄

[@catbernstein8628]

Excellent video! Exactly the information a visitor needs. Thanks.

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you very much! Glad it was helpful!

[@vikasgawate9094]

Very useful information keep updating thanks 👍

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you, will do!

[@anamikamishra8969]

Awesome info , thanks

[@TrumpTrump-yp9ie]

Great job explaining. Arigato Mike San .

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you. You are very welcome!

[@theinternationalist1357]

Very helpful, thanks. I think I'm ready for Japan this December 😊

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you! Have an awesome trip!

[@theinternationalist1357]

@@mikeinjap Mike-san, I know I'll get lost again when I arrive in HND this December 16th. Mike-san, I'm using JR Pass... can you give a directions to Sakado Station :)) I.e. From HND take the bus then ???? Oh I wonder if I can use the bus on my JR Pass? Thanks!

[@springflowers1181]

Thank you so much. The video is absolutely helpful!

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome. Thank you.

[@francesmaefano5783]

I love this so much! Thank you sir mike!!

[@mikeinjap]

Glad you like it!

[@sarahlongman2938]

Thank you very much for this!

[@avacheung4339]

Hi Mike, thank you for sharing. It will be helpful for my future trip to Janpan. :)

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome!

[@sleadentures6377]

SUPER helpful!! Arigatōgozaimashita!

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you very much! Glad it was helpful!

[@TheJkiss3]

Glad I found your video!

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome!

[@Ivan-ev1yx]

Thank you so much, great video, very useful

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you so much!

[@Unli17]

Very educational and informative 👍

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you for the comment! Glad it was helpful

[@PamAlen-if1jr]

Great tutorial

[@Lee-mk4kx]

Very useful smartphone app you introduced. Thanks Mike! I have downloaded it for the upcoming Tokyo spring trip

[@mikeinjap]

Glad you found it helpful Lee. Enjoy your trip to Tokyo!

[@cynthiaasprodites1526]

Wonderful! Thanks!

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you!

[@larrydubill]

Fantastic video! I have a trip coming up and its a great refresher. I am travelling with a group of 21 people, so I am guessing I should make shinkansen reservations when we go from Tokyo to Kyoto, and then later from Kyoto to Kanazawa. Do you agree?

[@mikeinjap]

Thanks Larry, wow thats a big group! Reservations are mostly if you want a guaranteed seat on the shinkansen, otherwise it is not really necessary. However, it is a 2-4 hr train ride from Tokyo to Kyoto depending on the train type so it might be a good idea especially if you have young children or elderly people in the group. Also, with a group that size, it would be difficult to have everyone together, unless they are split into families or smaller groups. They might be in different carriages or odd single seats here and there.

[@thecleeze6359]

Thank you for your video. I gave it a thumbs up and subscribed. I've been living in Japan for about 7 months now, and what I found confusing with the trains was how to handle platform stations in rural Iwate. I had to figure it out, but it might be useful to other people. What I'd like to know now is how to take the local bus in Ichinoseki. I'd like to know about the stops I've seen which have signs that say something like 'drop off only' (If I go to one of those, am I going to be stuck out there), and also about the slightly longer distance (20-30km) buses, how they work, and how timely they are. Could I rely on them to get to work, basically, if it were snowing or otherwise a terrible day to walk?

[@mikeinjap]

Hi The Cleeze, thank you for the comment. I actually lived in rural Akita for 3 yrs(next prefecture over from Iwate) and the trains come every hour or so. I actually rented a car for about (¥20000/month from a Honda dealer) which helped during the winter period. If you have a driver's license, then a car is recommended. I did take the bus at first but found them to be unreliable during winter for commuting. The drop off only stops are commonly used by Airport shuttles and long distance expressway buses, they shouldn't be for local buses. It depends on the bus company though. I would take a bus route map from inside the bus or at the bus terminals or use the bus company website to confirm.

[@thecleeze6359]

@@mikeinjap Thank you for your reply and the information. I'd heard something like that about the buses being unreliable, but it's good to hear from someone who has actually tried them. I look forward to future videos.

[@lenilavillagozalo7011]

Thanks I found you im new her and I don't know how to speak japanese it's difficult for me to move

[@SmiileySmiiles]

Really useful video ❤ Thanks

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you. Glad it was helpful!

[@azrulhanishajarudin6575]

Informative Mike san. Looking forward to other sharing soon. Im planning to be there next year for my third trips to JPN

[@azrulhanishajarudin6575]

perhaps would appreciate if you can share the best trip to travel by land from Tokyo to Iwate. Cheers mate!

[@mikeinjap]

Thanks for the comment. I assume you mean by train and not drive, although I have driven from Akita (next to Iwate) to Tokyo and Kagoshima. If you like onsen (hot springs) then I'd recommend going to Zao Onsen or Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata. Zao is also a large ski resort during the winter seasons. If you enjoy a slower but relaxing trip with beautiful views of the ocean, then the local train line along the east coast through Fukushima is a must. Matsushima Bay in Sendai is a beautiful place for cherry blossoms and ferry rides. I might make a more detailed video in the future. Mike

[@azrulhanishajarudin6575]

@@mikeinjap great to have a full insight of this. Thanks and pleasant mate!

[@ShakyKeys]

Extremely helpful. I've been to Japan a few times and still learned a great deal from this video. Thank you!

[@mikeinjap]

Hi Joey, thanks for the commend. Glad it was helpful!

[@coffeelatte3019]

Great video! Very informative. Thank you for making it. Hoping you could pls clarify… Why is the rail ticket price different when paying in cash vs using an IC card? I noticed on the navi app that sometimes the cash price is cheaper than the IC price and vice versa. Also, do we still need to get a rail ticket when using an IC? Or do we just need to scan the IC when we enter the station and again when we exit destination station? Thank you. Pls keep posting these informative video for us newbies to Japan. :)

[@nbvw3]

I have nominated you for the Nobel Prize in Japanese Train Travel. Please expect the Committee to call you soon.

[@mikeinjap]

Thank you very much! I think I got a few missed calls so it must be them!

[@sanjaydua]

Awesome video, provides invaluable guidance. Which IC card can be charged using a credit card?

[@manojfernando1028]

very useful.arigato

[@mikeinjap]

You're welcome!

[@LeeGeeEd]

Mike, you don’t make videos about Japan anymore?

[@shawn1869]

How do you know what direction the train is going?

[@mikeinjap]

1. On the train platform, there is usually a signboard that says the direction. Ie. For Osaka, For Tokyo etc. A lot of the times, the trains going in the opposite directions are right next to each other. For example, platform 1 and platform 2 or platform 3 and platform 4. 2. Inside the trains above the doors, there is usually a screen showing the current or next few stations and arrows showing the direction it is going.

[@shawn1869]

@@mikeinjap thank you

[@yuniwatichandradinata3754]

Very usefull video, thank you so much.

[@mikeinjap]

I'm glad you found it useful. Thank you for the comment.

[@nml8160]

Glad I found your channel, a lot of helpful information in your videos. But a bit unsure what pass to purchase. What pass would you recommend for someone visiting Tokyo for five days? Mainly buses and metro? Thank you And can I use the recommended pass to get from Haneda Airport into Tokyo?

[@WhyX11]

Thanks!

[@mikeinjap]

You're welcome.

[@nattidaleesom9330]

thank you

[@mikeinjap]

You're very welcome!

[@karenmarierogado-bancod2591]

Thank you so much for this. I am going to Japan this July and this video will be very useful for me. I just want to ask, what’s the best way for me to get to Hiratsuka, Kanagawa coming from Narita Terminal? Just want your honest opinion on this and some tips as well? Thank you!

[@tkyap2524]

Even the adventurous find it daunting to take the train in Japan. If the schedule is missed, it can be panic. Frequent rides are required to get the hang of it.

[@mikeinjap]

I agree, like most new things it takes time to get use to.

[@nhitc6832]

if I'm at a certain place, say Tokyo, and I want to go to a restaurant, say 5km away, is there an app that will plan out the routs for you? For example, nearest train station, which train to take, which station to stop at, then from there, direction to walk to that restaurant.

[@Genesisx14x]

So no need to buy a ticket if you have a Suica card or Pasmo card? Just scan card at gate then done?

[@fayeanneurbano113]

Thanks for this! We’re planning to visit Japan next year. Can you make a video on how to go to and from Mt. Fuji via train because I read that the trains there are limited.

[@mikeinjap]

Hi Faye, that's awesome! I will take note of that for a future video. In the mean time, if you use the app from my video, and put in the destination Hakone-Itabashi Station, it should provide you with some recommended routes.

[@fayeanneurbano113]

@@mikeinjap thank you for this but we plan on going to Mt. Fuji via Shomoyashida Station

[@verawong2117]

Good day to you. May I know if I can use Suica card in Sapporo ?

[@boon6084]

Hi I am going to Kyoto, Nagoya and Tokyo. Which IC card should I use? There are so many of them and it's really confuse me. Thanks

[@mikeinjap]

Unless you want a specific design or color, I would just pick up the Suica card since they all function the same.

[@gadifreelance2382]

Thank you! 😊

[@mikeinjap]

You're welcome 😊

[@A_DeZign]

Can we use Suica card to travel between cities (Osaka to Kyoto or Tokyo) ?

[@redangel2301]

Icoca card now.

[@mtl5827]

Hi Mike, love watching your video! It is very clear and informative! BTW, we are going to Japan at end of this month from Canada. We will stay in Japan for 6 days and Osaka for two days. I am a bit confused what pass to buy. We like to take bullet train to and from Tokyo to Osaka. So should I buy JRRail pass national or just buy JR rail West, east or central? Since we are mostly going around in Tokyo, can I just use JRrail pass national or I need to buy local day pass for tourist as well? Looking forward for your advise.

[@mikeinjap]

Hello there, thank you for the comment. If you plan on traveling from Tokyo to Osaka and back, then the national Japan Rail Pass is recommended. You can also use the pass for local train travel within the city as well as long as it is a JR operated train.

[@ratchl]

thank you for the helpful tips! do you know if you can use the suica card on the keikyu line?

[@mikeinjap]

Hello there, yes you can use the Suica Card on the Keikyu line. Thanks for the comment.

[@melgordon2490]

Which hotels would you recommend near kyoto station?

[@vaibhavigor9762]

How to use a round trip ticket for limited express train

[@mikeinjap]

For round trip tickets, you need to specify this during purchase. There is a slight discount on the base fare and you should receive two tickets, one for each direction. Depending on the distance of the trip, there might also a expiry date for the return ticket.

[@mishunot]

Can we use the subway ticket pass, the ones that has 72hr validity in all Tokyo stations and choose limited express stop, is that possible?thanks

[@kylawatts5368]

If you buy a train ticket are the times strict since a lot of trains seem to come in every few minutes? Is it an all day, one time use pass?

[@DombrowskiChristmas]

Great tips that I have not heard on the many other videos I've watched to prepare for my Japan trip...thanks for your efforts! There is 1 question that I cannot find an answer for. We are going to take a round trip Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima, and a 1way trip from Osaka to Tokyo on the Shinkansen. My understanding is that they have different ownership so the JR rail pass cannot be used west from Osaka. Is this accurate? What is your recommendation?

[@mikeinjap]

Hello Deborah, thank you for the comment, much appreciated! As long as you purchase the Japan Rail Pass (the national one) and not the Regional Rail Passes (ie. the JR West Pass or Hokkaido Rail Pass) you should be fine. It is valid on all JR operated trains throughout Japan with some exceptions.

[@hasriishak9417]

Hi mike..just subscribed your channel. I luv ur simple tutorial..many thanks. Just to know, if i have JR Pass that purchase from my country and claimed the card from JR Info center at airport, how do I make a reservation for RESERVED SEAT? Is it by making a reservation at the JR counter at each station?? And do I need to buy a ticket at each station??

[@summerrainn676]

Hi Mike, thanks for the detailed sharing on JP transportation. However, I am quite confused if i shld purchase Shinkansen tix. Appreciate your valuable feedback on the itinerary below: 1. Narita airport to Gotemba station 2. Gotemba to Osaka 3. Osaka to Narita airport Base on the itinerary above, do u think its necessary to purchase the Shinkansen tix?

[@mikeinjap]

I'm going to upload a new video regarding using the JR pass and it might help you make the decision whether to buy a jr pass or not. Just based on the destinations you provided, I think it's worth it to get the JR pass.

[@Miel1425]

Sir. Can you teach me steps by steps from koga ibaraki to osaka? arigatou gozaimasu.

[@mikeinjap]

Hello Elle, if you use the app I introduced in the video and put in your departing station name and destination station name, it will give you options on which trains to take.

[@cecilialee171]

I will be in Japan in May 1st.Can ask you for help?

[@tobid.247]

Thank you at first for your work making this video. Do you know if this Pasmo or Suica cards are working just in Tokyo? Or could I use the same card in Osaka, Fukuoka or smaller places as well?

[@mikeinjap]

Hi Tobi D, yes the Pasco and Suica cards should work fine in Osaka and Fukuoka. They are pretty widely accepted.