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Japan Transportation Options

Japan has an extremely efficient network of transportation systems, including buses, subways, monorails, streetcars, commuter trains, intercity trains, and the famous shinkansen, or bullet trains.

Urban Mass Transit

As a general rule, newcomers should avoid the buses.

Unless you speak fluent Japanese, getting around by bus is next to impossible; however, Tokyo and Kyoto do have English translations on some bus routes. All things considered, the subways are faster and a lot more fun. Fukuoka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nagoya, Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, and Yokohama all have subway systems that are easier and faster than buses. The subway is the most affordable way to get around, but be sure to get a map of the system before attempting to use it. Most subway systems hand out free English-language maps. If you use the same system regularly, then buying a one-, three-, or six-month subway pass will save you both time and money. Single fares are based on the distance to be traveled and tickets are usually purchased before boarding.

Japanese Railway (JR) and Suburban Commuter Trains

Most teachers commute by train and subway to work each day. There used to be two train systems in Japan: the government-run Japanese Railway, which mainly ran intercity routes, and a separate private system of commuter trains. In 1987, JR was divided and privatized. Whereas the former JR lines almost all end in the heart of downtown, several of the suburban commuter lines are owned by and terminate in shopping centers. Tokyo's Yamanote loop train connects the ends of various suburban lines and major downtown sites. All JR stations have the names of the stops listed in Japanese and English.

Taxis

Cabs aren't cheap in Japan, but often they are the only option for late-night transportation.

Try to have the name and address of a landmark near your destination written in Japanese, because most taxi drivers don't speak English. Also, keep in mind that taxi doors open and close automatically.

Intercity Transportation

Japan's major cities are all connected by train, plane, and bus. Some trains are actually quicker than flying when check-in time and travel between the city and airport are taken into consideration. Train fares are based on the distance traveled, the speed of the train, and the number of stops enroute. Check with the Japanese National Tourist Office nearest you for a Railway Timetable, which gives times and fares for rail service throughout Japan.

The Japan Rail Pass is similar to a Eurail Pass and it works well for those planning to cover a lot of the country in a short period of time (it's a lot less expensive, too). These passes are valid on most JR trains (including the bullet train), express buses, and ferries throughout the country. Seven-, fourteen, and twenty-one-day passes are available, but must be purchased outside Japan from Japan Air Lines ticket agents or travel agents.

The JR Pass is technically not available for those living in Japan with a valid work visa, but many teachers have friends in the United States mail JR passes to them. The catch is that upon validating the ticket, you must show your passport. If the JR agent sees your work visa, they can technically confiscate the ticket. To avoid this scenario, show instead a copy of the first page of your passport and explain that you only carry a copy of your passport.

JR's excursion packages for tourists include a round-trip ticket to a specified destination plus unlimited use of local transit systems at that destination. These packages are an excellent and affordable way to see other regions. Within a certain radius in and around Tokyo, "holiday fare" tickets are valid on weekends and holidays, allowing unlimited travel on all JR lines for ¥2,000 (there is a surcharge for Shinkansen).

Express Buses

Japan has a fairly good bus system connecting its major population centers. Buses are neither fast nor especially comfortable, but they are cheaper than trains. Also, Japan Rail Passes are valid on many intercity express buses.

Ferries

Travel by ferry is relatively inexpensive and can be absolutely beautiful, especially in the Japan Sea. Many budget travelers swear by the ferry system. This is especially true of cyclists, since bringing a bike doesn't cost extra.

The Taiwan - Japan ferry can be an attractive option for seaworthy persons wanting to work and/or travel in both countries; however, if you have a weak stomach, this trip is not for you. Ferries sail weekly between Naha, Okinawa, and either the northern Taiwanese port of Keelung, or the port of Kaohsiung. (If you take this ferry, please let us know about the trip.)