Japan’s transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency, convenience, and coverage. However, if you have just arrived, getting around might all seem a bit overwhelming. Below, we dig into what your best options are for getting around Japan; by air, by train, by bus and by ferry. We hope this will help you plan your travels around the country.
Air Travel in Japan
Japan has a well-developed domestic air travel network, which is operated by several major airlines and quite a few low cost carriers. The major airports in Japan are Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda airports (serving Tokyo), Osaka’s Kansai International and Osaka International airports (serving Osake, Kyoto and Kobe), as well as New Chitose Airport (serving Sapporo in Hokkaido), and Fukuoka airport (in Kyushu), and Naha (in Okinawa). Prices for domestic flights vary depending on the season and route, but prices have been coming down over the years, so that now the price to fly is about the same as taking the shinkansen bullet train.
Major Airlines:
- Japan Airlines (JAL)
- All Nippon Airways (ANA)
Mid-size & low cost carriers (LCCs):
- Skymark Airlines (Japan’s number 3 airline)
- Star Flyer (*pets allowed onboard!)
- Peach Aviation (subsidiary of ANA)
- Jetstar Japan (subsidiary of Qantas)
- Spring Japan (subsidiary of JAL)
- Air Do (mainly operates flight to/from Hokkaido, partnered with ANA)
- Solaseed Air (Kyushu airline)
These airlines connect just about any two cities in Japan, but the most popular routes are between Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo, Fukuoka and Naha. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or the comfort and convenience of a major airline, Japan has something to offer for everyone.
The 5 busiest airports in Japan are:
- Narita International Airport (serving Tokyo)
- Haneda International Airport (serving Tokyo)
- Kansai International Airport (serving Osaka)
- New Chitose Airport (serving Sapporo)
- Fukuoka International Airport (serving northern Kyushu)
These airports serve as hubs for the domestic air travel network, connecting major cities in Japan with frequent flights. Prices for air travel in Japan can vary greatly depending on the airline, route, season, time of day, and how early or late you book. It is generally cheaper to book flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
The best ways to book flights in Japan are:
- Directly through the airline’s website
- Through online travel agencies like Expedia, Orbitz, Priceline, Agoda, Rakuten or Jalan
- Through local travel agents
Train travel in Japan
Japan is known for its efficient and extensive rail network, making trains one of the most convenient modes of transportation for both locals and tourists alike. The country is home to the iconic shinkansen bullet train, which now connects almost the entire country, as well as various other express trains that operate where the shinkansen does not. Another interesting way to travel is by using one of the few remaining overnight sleeper trains. In this section, we will cover the different types of trains available and what you need to know about traveling by train in Japan.
Traveling by Shinkansen Bullet Train
The shinkansen, also known as the ‘bullet train’, is the most well-known train service in Japan and is renowned for its speed, comfort, and reliability. The shinkansen network connects the major cities of Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, among many others. The busiest shinkansen route, with trains departing every 10 minutes throughout the day, is the Tokaido Shinkansen, which runs between Tokyo and Osaka. The Nozomi is the fastest of all the shinkansen, and operates on the Tokaido shinkansen line, and continues on the Sankyo shinkansen line to Hiroshima and on to Hakata (Fukuoka), the final stop. The trip from Tokyo to Hakata (1069km) takes 4 hours and 46 minutes. The trip from Tokyo to Osaka (515km) takes 2 hours and 21 minutes.
The shinkansen is known for its high-speed service, with trains running at speeds of up to 300 km/h. The trains are equipped with comfortable seats, food and drink vending machines, and washrooms. Traveling by shinkansen is a great way to save time, especially if you are covering long distances, as taking the bullet train is much faster than traveling by road, or even by plane in most cases (considering that if flying you need to get to the airport, check-in and so-on). If traveling from Tokyo to Hiroshima, it will likely take about the same time by plane or by shinkansen.
In 2027, there will be an even faster option: Maglev Japan.
Special Train Tickets for Travelers
Japan offers various special train tickets for travelers, including the Japan Rail Pass and regional rail passes. The Japan Rail Pass, also known as the JR Pass, is a cost-effective option for tourists traveling throughout Japan by train. The pass is available for 7, 14, or 21 days and allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the shinkansen (although not the fastest ‘nozomi’ shinkansen trains). The cost of the pass varies depending on the duration and type of pass you choose. This ticket is only available to tourists and must be purchased before coming to Japan.
Other Popular Express Train Services in Japan
In addition to the shinkansen, Japan has a number of other popular intercity express train services, which are often given names like the Azusa which heads from Tokyo up to Hakuba, or the ‘Odakyu Romancecar’ which connects Tokyo with the famous onsen region of Hakone.” These long distance express trains differ from commuter express trains that whisk business men and women into Tokyo each morning. The intercity express trains leave just a few times a day (usually early morning), and are luxury trains that run on scenic routes and offer a more relaxed and comfortable travel experience. The rapid express commuter trains, on the other hand, offer a more budget-friendly option for travelers who are in a hurry, on shorter routes.
Interesting Overnight Sleeper Trains
For a unique travel experience, consider taking one of Japan’s overnight sleeper trains. These trains offer comfortable sleeping accommodations and run on various routes throughout the country. Some of the most popular overnight sleeper trains include the Twilight Express Mizukaze (which operates through the Chugoku region), and the Sunrise Izumo, which connects Tokyo with Izumo (near Matsue city in Shimane prefecture, Chugoku region).
Subway trains and railways serving city commuters
Most large cities in Japan have extensive above ground and subway train systems. Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Kobe, Fukuoka, and many other cities have extensive inner city train networks, as well as train lines that service the areas surrounding these cities. It goes without saying that Japan has one of the world’s best rail systems, which is affordable, safe and almost always on time; the envy of most other cities around the world.
Traveling by bus in Japan
Japan offers a variety of long distance bus options for the more budget-conscious travelers prefer road travel to trains or planes. Highway express buses are operated by several companies, including Willer Express, VIP Liner, and JR Bus Kanto. These bus services provide travelers with a comfortable and convenient way to get from one city to another, and offer spacious seating, air conditioning, and onboard toilets. Most intercity bus services to and from Tokyo leave/arrive at the large bus terminal in Shinjuku.
Popular Routes and Prices for Highway Express Buses
The most popular routes for highway express buses are those between major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. A one-way ticket from Tokyo to Osaka costs around 7,000 yen and the journey takes around 5-6 hours.
Prices for highway express buses vary depending on the route and the time of year, with peak travel season being late spring and mid-summer. One of the biggest advantages of using a highway bus is that they generally leave at around 12 midnight and arrive early the following day, saving the budget traveler one night of accommodation costs.
City Buses
In addition to highway express buses, Japan also has a variety of city bus services for travelers. These buses offer a more budget-friendly option than taxis for getting around town, with fares starting from around 200 yen. These buses also service areas and streets that are often further away from train lines. Purchasing a ticket for a city bus is straightforward. Simply board the bus and place the correct fare in the fare box or use a prepaid IC card, such as Suica or Pasmo.
Ferries in Japan
Ferries are a convenient and fun mode of transportation for tourists and locals alike, offering a more relaxed, fun and adventurous way to see Japan and its many islands and coastlines. Here’s a rundown of the different types of ferry services available in Japan.
Long distance ferries
Long distance ferries operate between major coastal cities in Japan, connecting the four main islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, as well as other ferries that link the Ryukyu Okinawan islands in the south. Major ferry companies include: MOL Ferry Ltd (Mitsui), which runs between Oarai near Tokyo and Tomakomai in Hokkaido. Shin-Nihonkai serves port on the Japan Sea coast of Japan. Taiheiyo Ferry links Hokkaido with Sendai and Nagoya. And there are many other companies linking other ports, such as Ocean Tokyu Ferry, Tokyo-Kyushu Ferry, Meimon Taiyo Ferry, Hankyu Ferry, Ferry Sunflower, Mayazki Car ferry and A Line, which interestingly links Kagoshima with Naha in the far south. These ferries typically offer seats ranging from standard class to luxury cabins, and also have dining and entertainment options on board. Prices vary depending on the route and class of travel.
Izu island ferries
The Izu Islands are a chain of volcanic islands located to the south of Tokyo and are a popular destination for travelers looking for a beach getaway. There are ferries connecting Tokyo (Takeshiba Port) with the Izu Islands, including Oshima, Niijima, Kozujima, and others. These ferries are operated by Tokai Kisen. You can either take a slow overnight ferry, or take a high-speed jetfoil which will get you to some of the closer islands in just a couple of hours.
Shorter ferry routes
There are also many shorter ferry routes connecting smaller islands and ports within Japan. A few examples include the ferry connecting southwest Boso Peninsula (Chiba) to Miura peninsula (Kanagawa), and another connecting Wakayama to Tokushima, and another from Irago to Toba. There are hundreds of others around Japan. These ferries are operated by different local companies and offer scenic and fun travel experiences, as well as being essential travel links for locals just needing to get from A to B.
The ferry network in and around the Seto Inland sea area
The Seto Inland Sea is a body of water located between Honshu and Shikoku. There is a well-developed ferry network in and around the Seto Inland Sea area, connecting the main islands and ports. These ferries are operated by a variety of companies, including Setouchi Ferry and JR West Ferry, and offer regular services throughout the day (and night for longer trips).
Okinawa network & island hopping from Kyushu to Okinawa
Okinawa is a tropical island chain located to the south of mainland Japan and is a popular destination for travelers looking for a beach getaway. There are ferries connecting Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, to Okinawa, offering travelers the option to island hop down and around Okinawa. These ferries are operated by a variety of companies, including Naha Ferry and Okinawa Express Ferry.
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