Transport
Trains, IC cards, airports and passes.
8 answersPractical guides
Do You Need an International Driving Permit for Japan?
Most visitors need a paper IDP issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, but licenses from six countries and regions use an official Japanese translation instead.
Why Is Your Suica Not Working? Fixing IC Card Gate Errors
A low balance is only one reason a transit IC card can fail. Learn how to fix unfinished trips, bad taps, area-boundary problems and expired visitor cards.
Lost Something on a Train in Japan? What to Do Next
Act quickly, contact the railway that operated the train, and give precise journey and item details. If the item moves to police custody, file a Lost Property Report and keep your reference information.
Do You Need to Reserve Shinkansen Tickets in Advance?
Not always. Reserve early for peak holidays, groups, fixed connections, oversized baggage or trains with reserved seats only; flexible off-peak travelers can often buy later.
Is the Japan Rail Pass Still Worth It?
Usually no—but a fast, long-distance itinerary can still make the numbers work.
Suica vs PASMO: Which Card Should You Get?
For almost every visitor, the two cards work in the same places. Get whichever is easiest to buy.
Haneda vs Narita: Which Tokyo Airport Is Better?
Haneda is closer to central Tokyo. Narita can still be the better choice when the flight is cheaper or better timed.