Tokyo Travel Tip-Subway and Train map for SUICA

Just for kicks, here is a link to a pdf file that displays all of the subway and train lines that the SUICA can access. These include JR lines, private railway lines, and Tokyo Metro subway lines. The map may seem daunting and confusing but the infrastructure is extensive. However, I think that it illustrates how much Tokyoites rely on public transportation and a testament to how it can get you anywhere you want to go. I personally can vouch for the timeliness and efficiency of the system. Take to heart that not all stops are noted in the map

http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/routemaps/pdf/RouteMap_majorrailsub.pdf

Tokyo Travel Tip-Yamanote Line

There are many ways to get around Tokyo. Hopefully, you will be staying at a place near a station on the Yamanote Line. This is a circular line that runs around the heart of Tokyo. It stops off at many of the tourist sites and hot spots in town. If its not along the Yamanote, then its a short ride from one of the many stations situated on its route. As a newcomer, you cant get lost on this green-colored line. If you happen to take the train in the wrong direction, sit back and enjoy the view as you will eventually get to where you want to go

Here is a link to a pdf file that shows all the JR lines in Tokyo. Mind you, this just shows the train lines and not the subway

http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/info/map_a4ol.pdf

Tokyo Travel Tip-Narita Express(N'ex) and SUICA

I previously mentioned about the benefits of the SUICA card. Japan Rail has a great deal for visitors to Japan in conjunction with SUICA. There are many ways to get in to Tokyo from Narita airport. I have taken the limosine shuttles(bus) on a few occassions. Its convenient and stops at many hotels. However, it may take well over an hour if you exprience traffic on the highways leading into town. There are other rail lines that can ferry you as well. They can take anywhere from an hour or more. My favored option is the Narita Express. Its a one hour ride to Tokyo station. A little longer if you need to go to other stations such as Shinagawa, Shinjuku, Yokohama or other stops that the N'ex services. I stay in Shinagawa and it was a great comfort when they began service to this area. There is a snack cart that travels the length of the train if you need a drink or snack along the way. The fare is 3000 yen to Tokyo Stn.

Japan Rail has bundled a package with these two travel options. For 3500 yen, you get a ticket good for N'ex and a SUICA loaded with 2000 yen.

For info on the package
http://http//www.jreast.co.jp/e/suica-nex/

For info on N'ex
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/suica-nex/nex.html

Tokyo Travel Tip-SUICA

The SUICA card is an IC card that can be used throughout Tokyo and other parts of Japan. Its primary function is for transportation but can also be used to make purchases. The card can be used to ride JR lines and have been expanded to cover alot of the subway lines in Tokyo as well. All you do is touch the card to the designated area on the faregate to gain entry to the station. The minimum fare is deducted from the value of the card. As you reach your destination and exit the station, you do the same as you exit. The display will deduct the remaining fare and display the value left on the card. This eliminates the hassle of trying to figure out how much you need to pay for a ticket. They have been working with other companies to make the SUICA operate in other areas that use different IC cards like Pasmo

These cards can be purchased at any station displaying the SUICA symbol. There is a refundable deposit and any remaining amount can be reimbursed minus a small fee. The refunds cannot be made at the machine. The cards can also be recharged at these same machines. At many convenience stores that display the SUICA logo, you can make purchases with the card

Heres the link to the JR East page about SUICA

http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/suica-nex/suica.html

Tokyo Travel Tip

As I have travelled to Tokyo on many occassion, I would like to share some of my insights on what I have learned during these travels. I am no expert on the topic but I would like to think that these would be helpful, especially to those who are endeavoring for the first time. I have shared some of my pictures on the blogue before. Many of these perspectives are from the viewpoint of an american but can, at most times, apply to almost anyone.