Find your way around Tokyo easily with our Metro Guide: maps, useful tips, and a 3% Off Metro tickets on Trip.com. (2024)

Discounted Tokyo Metro Pass

Trip.com offers 3% off when you book Tokyo Metro Pass between Mar 5, 2024 and Nov 1, 2024. Promo stocks are limited, so get in quick before they run out!

Tokyo Metro Map

Source from Tokyometro Official site

Covering the whole city with more than 280 stations, Tokyo subway lines will help you get to almost any destination quickly and easily.

The clearly color-coded map is a handy guide, and with multilingual signs in both stations and trains.

👉 Click to view & download a high-resolution Tokyo Metro Map.

Tokyo Subway Detailed Info: Line & Map

Tokyo Metro Map (Source: wikipedia)

The Tokyo Subway system consists of 13 lines, each connecting various stations. There are 13 Tokyo subway lines: Toei Subway (4 lines) and Tokyo Metro (9 lines).

The two metro lines are operated by different companies. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway are indeed operated by different entities: Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd., and the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation, respectively.

There's a high degree of cooperation between the two, allowing for integrated service in some areas despite their separate operations.

Tokyo Metro Lines (9 lines)

Tokyo Metro Subway Line (source: thepoortraveler)

Toei Subway Lines (4 lines)

Toei Subway Line (Source: thepoortraveler)

The Tokyo subway system, including both the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, is known for its efficiency and extensive coverage, making it an essential part of daily life in Tokyo for commuting and travel within the city.

Where to Buy Tokyo Subway Tickets & Passes

【Note】It's important to remember, however, that Tokyo's subway networks are separate from the Japan Rail (JR) system, and thus, JR Passes are not accepted.

Tokyo Metro 1-3 Days Pass

Source from Tokyometro Official site

For visitors intending to frequently use the subway in Tokyo, there's a convenient option in the form of 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour passes. These passes allow unlimited travel across all 13 lines of the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway systems, making it easy to visit major attractions in areas like Ueno, Tokyo, Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza.

You can purchase these all-day passes at Tokyo Metro ticket counters, some subway stations, Bic Camera stores, and tourist information centers throughout Tokyo. It's necessary to show your passport when buying a pass to verify you're an overseas traveler.

Additionally, you can also choose to book online! Purchasing your Tokyo Metro pass on Trip.com can give you 3% Off savings when you book between Mar 5, 2024 and Nov 1, 2024. Promo stocks are limited, so get in quick before they run out!! The pass itself offers special discounts at over 350 public facilities in Tokyo.

*Adult: Age 12+ , Child: Age 6 to 11

Tokyo Subway Pass: Suica and PASMO

Source from Tokyometro Official site

Apart from the Tokyo Metro pass, you can also choose IC cards that support the Tokyo Metro. The main types are Suica Card and PASMO. The difference between them is just who sells them and what they look like. You can buy these cards with a 500 yen (about $3.29 as of April 2024) refundable deposit at ticket machines at stations. Here, you can also add more money to the cards.

To travel smoothly, just tap your card on the reader when you go through the ticket gates. Another handy thing is that you can use your IC card to buy things at vending machines and convenience stores.

If you like using your phone, you can get mobile IC cards. By downloading the mobile Suica or PASMO app, you can tap in with your phone. Adding money can also be done through your phone.

• Exclusions for PASMO Usage:
• PASMO cards in use as commuter passes or for children who already have a PASMO.
• Credit cards with PASMO functionality.
• Other IC Card Tickets:
• Restrictions do not apply to IC cards other than PASMO, like Suica or TOICA.
• PASMO PASSPORT Limitations:
• Not valid if the intended use exceeds the card's validity period of 28 days.

Regular Tokyo Subway Tickets

Ticket vending machines (Source tokyocheapo.com)

Regular subway tickets can be purchased from multilingual machines at any subway station though it might be a little troublesome and more expensive. The price depends on the distance you're traveling, not the specific route or station. It's important to note that Tokyo Metro and Toei are different entities, so tickets for each will be separate.

Tokyo Metro ticket prices range from 180 to 330 yen (about $1.19 to $2.17, as of 2024), while Toei's tickets are slightly pricier, from 180 to 430 yen (about $1.19 to $2.83).

To use your ticket, simply insert it into the To purchase a Metro ticket at stations, you can follow these steps:

1. Locate a Ticket Machine: Find a ticket vending machine within the station. These machines are designed to be user-friendly and are typically signposted.
2. Buy Your Ticket: Use the ticket machine to purchase your ticket. Instructions are available and the language setting can be changed in the upper right corner of the machine’s screen to suit your preference.
3. Proceed to the Automatic Gate: With your ticket in hand, head to the automatic gate to access the subway. Insert your ticket into the slot at the gate, and retrieve it as you pass through to enter the subway system, yellow slot at the ticket gate and retrieve it as you walk through. Remember to keep your ticket until you exit your destination station, as you'll need it to leave.

How to Use Tokyo Subway Pass

1. Purchase the Pass Online: Ensure you have purchased your Tokyo Metro Pass online via Trip.com to avail of potential discounts.
2. Electronic Ticket (QR Code Voucher): After purchasing, you will receive an electronic ticket, specifically a QR code voucher, which serves as a redemption voucher for physical tickets.
3. Check Redemption Information: Prior to attempting redemption, consult the "Product Introduction" section to find out which stations allow redemption and to understand the specific method for redeeming your pass.
4. Redeem Your Physical Ticket: Use your QR code voucher directly at the ticket vending machines designed for tourists, located in major Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway stations, to redeem your physical ticket. Once you insert the ticket through the ticket gate, your unlimited ride will start!
5. Station Staff Assistance for Redemption: If you're at a station that doesn't have a tourist ticket vending machine, or if you encounter any issues, you can also exchange the QR code voucher with staff at the office of any Tokyo Metro station.

【Note】

• There are exceptions for specific stations (Hibiya Line Kitasenju, Nakameguro, Nakano, Nishi Funabashi, Yoyogi Uehara, Wako City, and stations between Shibuya and Meguro on the Hanzomon and f*ckutoshin Lines) where this service may not be available.
• Guidance for Stations Without Vending Machines: Should your departure station lack a tourist ticket vending machine, seek assistance from station staff for directions on how to reach another station equipped with the necessary machines.

Steps to Use Tokyo Metro Pass

Tokyo Subway Opening Time

Tokyo Metro Opening Hours

The operating hours of each Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway line are different. It is usually between 4:30 and 00:30 the next day. The exact times can vary by line, so it's best to check the Japan Travel app for specifics.

Tokyo Metro Rush Hours

During rush hours, typically from 7:30 to 9:30 AM and 5:30 to 7:30 PM, Tokyo's subways get very crowded, especially in the morning. If you want to avoid the crowds or you're carrying big bags, try to travel outside these peak hours.

Popular Attractions around Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway

Hibiya Line (Tokyo Metro Line 2)

✨Roppongi (Roppongi Hills)
Roppongi Hills is a modern urban center home to offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, and the Mori Art Museum. The complex's centerpiece, Mori Tower, offers an observation deck with stunning views of Tokyo. Roppongi is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural events.

Roppongi Hills

✨Akihabara (Electric Town)
Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is the center for all things electronic and otaku culture, with numerous stores selling anime, manga, video games, and electronics. The area is a colorful and bustling district where fans of anime and manga can explore themed cafes and shops. Akihabara also hosts various events and promotions related to anime and games.

Electric Town

Chiyoda Line (Tokyo Metro Line 9)

✨Meiji Shrine (Meiji-jingu)
Located near Harajuku Station, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. It's a peaceful place amidst a forest in the heart of Tokyo. Visitors can walk through towering torii gates, visit the inner garden, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Meiji-jingu

✨Otemachi (Imperial Palace)
The Imperial Palace, near Otemachi Station, is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family. It's surrounded by moats and gardens, offering picturesque views, especially during cherry blossom season. Although the inner grounds are generally not open to the public, the East Gardens are accessible and offer a peaceful retreat.

Imperial Palace

Oedo Line (Toei Line 12)

Tsukiji Market (Tsukijishijo):
The Tsukiji Outer Market is famous for fresh seafood and the vibrant atmosphere of its food stalls and restaurants. While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji continues to attract food lovers eager to sample sushi and other seafood delicacies.

Tsukijishijo

Shinjuku (Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden):
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo's largest and most popular parks, located a short walk from Shinjuku Station. It blends three styles: traditional Japanese, formal French, and English Landscape. The park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden