Getting Started on the Tokyo Metro
The Tokyo Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Tokyo. The network covers 285 stations across 13 lines and 304 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~8.7 million journeys are made every day.
The Tokyo subway system comprises two separate operators — Tokyo Metro (9 lines, 180 stations) and Toei Subway (4 lines, 106 stations) — forming a combined network of 13 lines and 285 stations across 304 km of track, carrying over 8.7 million passengers every day.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Suica & Pasmo IC Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. Everything about Suica and Pasmo IC cards: how to get one, top up, what they cover, and whether tourists still need one in 2026.
All payment options: Suica IC card · Pasmo IC card · Tokyo Metro 24/48/72-hr tourist ticket · Tokyo Subway Ticket (combined Tokyo Metro + Toei) · Cash at ticket machines.
💡 Get a Suica card at Narita/Haneda airport on arrival — it covers all trains, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines. No need to buy separate tickets ever.
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge — distance-based flat fares at all times.
Getting from the Airport to Tokyo
How to reach central Tokyo from Narita Airport (N'EX or Skyliner) and Haneda Airport (Keikyu Line) — journey times, fares, and subway connection tips for 2026. Journey time: Narita: 53 min (N'EX to Shinjuku) / Haneda: 20–30 min (Keikyu to central Tokyo). Estimated fare: Narita: ¥3,070 (N'EX) or ¥2,520 (Skyliner) / Haneda: ¥410–¥730.
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Tokyo Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Get a transit card — Suica & Pasmo IC Card Guide is faster and cheaper than single-use tickets.
- Always tap in and out — tap your card at both entry and exit barriers to correctly calculate the fare and avoid overpaying.
- Travel off-peak — No peak fare surcharge — distance-based flat fares at all times are the busiest times. Fares may be lower off-peak.
- Download the official app — real-time service status, route planning, and fare information from Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd. & Toei Subway.
- Check operating hours — verify first and last train times before late-evening travel.
- Airport connection — see the airport guide for the fastest and cheapest way to/from the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pay for the Tokyo subway?
Tap in and out with a Suica or Pasmo IC card — the easiest and cheapest method. Buy a Suica at Narita/Haneda airport or any JR station for ¥500 deposit + initial credit. It works on all Tokyo trains, buses, and at most convenience stores and vending machines.
What is the Tokyo Metro tourist ticket?
The Tokyo Metro 24/48/72-hour ticket (¥600/¥1,000/¥1,500) gives unlimited rides on all 9 Tokyo Metro lines. It does not cover Toei Subway lines. For combined coverage, buy the Tokyo Subway Ticket (covers both operators) at airports and selected tourist spots.
How do I get from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
The Narita Express (N'EX, JR) takes 53 minutes to Shinjuku for ¥3,070, or the Keisei Skyliner reaches Ueno in 41 minutes for ¥2,520. Neither is the subway — both are separate express train services. From central stations you then connect to the subway.
How do I get from Haneda Airport to Tokyo?
The Keikyu Line from Haneda connects directly to Toei Asakusa Line stations and Shinagawa (JR/subway) in 20–30 minutes for ¥410–¥730. Haneda is significantly closer to central Tokyo than Narita and is the easier airport for subway users.
Is the Tokyo subway easy to navigate in English?
Yes — all station names, maps, and announcements are in English. Station numbers (e.g., G-01 for Shibuya on the Ginza Line) make navigation simple without reading Japanese. Free Wi-Fi is available at most stations.
What is the difference between Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway?
Tokyo Metro operates 9 lines and is partially privatised. Toei Subway operates 4 lines and is run by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Both appear on the same maps and both accept Suica/Pasmo. Transferring between the two companies incurs no extra fee with an IC card.
When does the Tokyo subway close?
Most lines run from approximately 05:00 to midnight (00:30 for some lines on weekends). There is no 24-hour service. Last trains are heavily publicised — apps like Google Maps show last train times. Missing the last train means a taxi, which is expensive in Tokyo.
Is the Tokyo subway crowded?
Peak hours (07:30–09:30 and 17:30–20:00 on weekdays) are very crowded, especially at Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro. Trains are punctual to the second but packed during rush hour. Travelling outside peak hours is significantly more comfortable.
Fare Guide
See the full Tokyo Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Suica & Pasmo IC Card Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd. & Toei Subway (Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.