Tokyo's transport network is extensive, reliable, and — with the right approach — genuinely affordable. The mistake many visitors make is taking taxis or using the wrong payment methods. Here's how to move around the city efficiently without overspending.
The IC Card (Suica / Pasmo) — Essential
An IC card is a rechargeable smart card that works on virtually all Tokyo trains, subways, buses, and many convenience stores and vending machines. Load it once and tap in/out at turnstiles — no need to calculate fares or buy individual tickets.
How to get one: Vending machines at any major station (Suica from JR machines, Pasmo from subway machines). Initial charge: ¥500 deposit + loaded value. Welcome Suica: A tourist-specific IC card available at major airports — no deposit required, valid 28 days.
Cost per journey: ¥140–¥320 for most inner-city trips on metro/JR. This is the cheapest way to ride Tokyo's trains.
Subway Day Passes
Tokyo Metro 24-hour pass: ¥600. Covers all 9 Tokyo Metro lines for 24 hours from first use. Worth it if you make 5+ metro journeys in a day (typical on a heavy sightseeing day).
Tokyo Metro + Toei 24-hour pass: ¥900. Covers all 13 Metro + Toei subway lines. Better if you need Toei Asakusa, Oedo, or Shinjuku lines.
Are they worth it? For most days: no. For a day with 6+ train rides across the network: yes. Calculate your planned journeys before buying.
Walking — Underrated
Tokyo's map is deceptive — districts that appear far apart on the metro map are often a 15–20 minute walk. Shibuya to Harajuku: 12 minutes. Shinjuku to Harajuku: 20 minutes. Ueno to Akihabara: 20 minutes. Asakusa to Ueno: 25 minutes. Walking between these saves ¥150–¥200 per leg and reveals neighborhoods that the subway skips entirely.
When NOT to Use Taxis
Tokyo taxis are expensive — ¥730 for the first 1.1km, then metered. A 5km taxi ride costs ¥1,500–¥2,000. During rush hours, traffic makes taxis even more expensive per unit of travel than at other times. Use taxis: late at night when trains stop (last trains 12:30–1am depending on line), with heavy luggage, or when the IC card journey would require multiple transfers.
Free Transport Options
Walking: Always. Tokyo is a walking city when you understand the distances.
Suijo Bus (water bus): Some routes (Asakusa → Odaiba) are surprisingly affordable and scenic.
Free shuttles: Major attractions (TeamLab, some museums) provide free shuttles from nearby stations. Check before traveling.
JR Pass in Tokyo
The JR Pass covers JR Yamanote Line and JR Chuo Line within Tokyo — useful for the outer ring between Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Ueno, Akihabara, and Tokyo Station. But the pass doesn't cover Tokyo Metro or Toei subway lines, which reach more central destinations. For pure in-Tokyo transport, the IC card (bought separately) is more practical than relying on JR Pass coverage.