Subway & Metro

Tokyo's subway system is one of the most extensive in the world, with 13 lines operated by two companies: Tokyo Metro (9 lines) and Toei Subway (4 lines). A single ride starts at ¥178 (Toei) or ¥180 (Tokyo Metro), and a day pass costs ¥600 (Metro only) or ¥900 (combined Metro + Toei).

Osaka's Metro has 8 lines covering the city center and key neighborhoods like Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Tennoji. The base fare is ¥180, and the Osaka Amazing Pass (¥2,800) gives unlimited subway rides plus free entry to over 40 attractions including Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building.

Kyoto has two subway lines: the Karasuma Line (north-south, connecting Kyoto Station to Karasuma Oike and Kitaoji) and the Tozai Line (east-west, connecting Nijo Castle to Yamashina). Kyoto's subway is less extensive than Tokyo or Osaka — consider buses as a primary option. A one-day subway pass costs ¥600.

Navigation tips: Google Maps and Apple Maps work excellently for subway routing in Japan — they show platform numbers, exit numbers, and transfer times. Station signs are bilingual (Japanese and English), and each line has a distinct color and letter code (e.g., Tokyo Metro Ginza Line = G). Exit numbers matter — use the right exit to save walking above ground.

Avoid rush hour (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM) if possible. Some trains have women-only cars during peak times (look for pink signage on the platform). A Suica or Pasmo IC card works on all subway lines — just tap in and out as with JR trains.