Best Tokyo Metro Guide: Tokyo Subway Map, Tips & Save 3% on Tickets

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Tokyo is Japan's capital, so it has a big and complex subway system, including Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. With so many subway lines and ticket options, it might seem complex at first. But don't worry! We made a simple guide for you. It has maps, routes to popular places, how to buy tickets, etc.

Tokyo Metro Guide

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Tokyo Metro Map

Tokyo Metro Map

Source from Tokyometro Official site

Covering the whole city with more than 280 stations, Tokyo subway lines will help you get to almost any destination quickly and easily.

The clearly color-coded map is a handy guide, and with multilingual signs in both stations and trains.

OperatorLine NameLine NumberColor
Tokyo MetroHibiya LineLine 2Silver
Ginza LineLine 3Orange
Marunouchi LineLine 4Red
Tozai LineLine 5Light Blue
Namboku LineLine 7Jade Blue
Yurakucho LineLine 8Gold
Chiyoda LineLine 9Green
Hanzomon LineLine 11Purple
Fukutoshin LineLine 13Brown
Tokyo Metropolitan Transportation Bureau
Asakusa LineLine 1Pink
Mita LineLine 6Blue
Shinjuku LineLine 10Yellow-Green
Oedo LineLine 12Purple

👉 Click to view & download a high-resolution Tokyo Metro Map.


👀✨If you're curious about how to stay connected in Japan, check the following Japan eSIM products!

Tokyo Subway Detailed Info: Line & Map

Tokyo Subway Detailed Info: Line & Map

Tokyo Metro Map (Source: wikipedia)

The Tokyo Subway system consists of 13 lines, each connecting various stations. There are 13 Tokyo subway lines: Toei Subway (4 lines) and Tokyo Metro (9 lines).

The two metro lines are operated by different companies. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway are indeed operated by different entities: Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd., and the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation, respectively.

There's a high degree of cooperation between the two, allowing for integrated service in some areas despite their separate operations.

Tokyo Metro Lines (9 lines)

Tokyo Metro Lines

Tokyo Metro Subway Line (source: thepoortraveler)

Toei Subway Lines (4 lines)

Toei Subway Lines

Toei Subway Line (Source: thepoortraveler)

The Tokyo subway system, including both the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, is known for its efficiency and extensive coverage, making it an essential part of daily life in Tokyo for commuting and travel within the city.

Where to Buy Tokyo Subway Tickets & Passes

Where to Buy Tokyo Subway Tickets & Passes
Numerous transportation choices are available within Tokyo's subway system. Stations are equipped with ticket machines that support multiple languages, enabling the purchase of single-trip tickets. Alternatively, passengers may opt for a rechargeable IC card, which simplifies entry and exit through the gates. For tourists, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway provide a joint pass, offering both savings and convenience.

【Note】It's important to remember, however, that Tokyo's subway networks are separate from the Japan Rail (JR) system, and thus, JR Passes are not accepted.

Tokyo Metro 1-3 Days Pass

Tokyo Metro 1-3 Days Pass Ticket

Source from Tokyometro Official site

For visitors intending to frequently use the subway in Tokyo, there's a convenient option in the form of 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour passes. These passes allow unlimited travel across all 13 lines of the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway systems, making it easy to visit major attractions in areas like Ueno, Tokyo, Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza.

You can purchase these all-day passes at Tokyo Metro ticket counters, some subway stations, Bic Camera stores, and tourist information centers throughout Tokyo. It's necessary to show your passport when buying a pass to verify you're an overseas traveler.

Additionally, you can also choose to book online! Purchasing your Tokyo Metro pass on Trip.com can give you 3% Off savings when you book between Mar 5, 2024 and Nov 1, 2024. Promo stocks are limited, so get in quick before they run out!! The pass itself offers special discounts at over 350 public facilities in Tokyo.

Ticket TypeAge GroupOriginal Price (USD)Trip.com DiscountDiscounted Price (USD)
Tokyo Subway One-Day / 24-hourChild2.64-0.082.56
Adult5.28-0.165.12
Tokyo Subway Two-Day / 48-hourChild3.83-0.123.71
Adult7.78-0.247.54
Tokyo Subway Three-Day / 72-hourChild4.95-0.154.80
Adult9.89-0.309.59

*Adult: Age 12+ , Child: Age 6 to 11

Tokyo Subway Pass: Suica and PASMO

Tokyo Subway Pass: Suica and PASMO

Source from Tokyometro Official site

Apart from the Tokyo Metro pass, you can also choose IC cards that support the Tokyo Metro. The main types are Suica Card and PASMO. The difference between them is just who sells them and what they look like. You can buy these cards with a 500 yen (about $3.29 as of April 2024) refundable deposit at ticket machines at stations. Here, you can also add more money to the cards.

To travel smoothly, just tap your card on the reader when you go through the ticket gates. Another handy thing is that you can use your IC card to buy things at vending machines and convenience stores.

If you like using your phone, you can get mobile IC cards. By downloading the mobile Suica or PASMO app, you can tap in with your phone. Adding money can also be done through your phone.

FeatureSuica CardPASMO Card
UsagePublic transportation across many cities, including Tokyo. Used for subways, trains, buses, and some taxis.Used on the Japanese subway and other transportation modes.
TypeRechargeable. Funds loaded onto the card are deducted with each use.Pre-loaded. Rechargeable for repeated use.
PriceFrom US$17.74 online.1,000 to 10,000 yen at ticket vending machines; 1,000 to 20,000 yen at station offices in 1,000 yen increments. Includes a 500 yen deposit.
Recharge AmountValid for 28 days from first use. Can be recharged at automatic ticket vending machines up to JPY 20,000.Supports charging in 10 yen increments from 10 yen to 20,000 yen.
Where to BuyTrip.com Suica Card and other authorized vendors.Ticket vending machines, station offices, commuter pass sales offices at Tokyo Metro stations.
RoutesVarious modes of transportation in many cities, including Tokyo.Most transportation agencies in the metropolitan area.
  • Exclusions for PASMO Usage:
    • PASMO cards in use as commuter passes or for children who already have a PASMO.
    • Credit cards with PASMO functionality.
  • Other IC Card Tickets:
    • Restrictions do not apply to IC cards other than PASMO, like Suica or TOICA.
  • PASMO PASSPORT Limitations:
    • Not valid if the intended use exceeds the card's validity period of 28 days.

Regular Tokyo Subway Tickets

Regular Tokyo Subway Tickets

Ticket vending machines (Source tokyocheapo.com)

Regular subway tickets can be purchased from multilingual machines at any subway station though it might be a little troublesome and more expensive. The price depends on the distance you're traveling, not the specific route or station. It's important to note that Tokyo Metro and Toei are different entities, so tickets for each will be separate.

Tokyo Metro ticket prices range from 180 to 330 yen (about $1.19 to $2.17, as of 2024), while Toei's tickets are slightly pricier, from 180 to 430 yen (about $1.19 to $2.83).

To use your ticket, simply insert it into the To purchase a Metro ticket at stations, you can follow these steps:

  1. Locate a Ticket Machine: Find a ticket vending machine within the station. These machines are designed to be user-friendly and are typically signposted.
  2. Buy Your Ticket: Use the ticket machine to purchase your ticket. Instructions are available and the language setting can be changed in the upper right corner of the machine’s screen to suit your preference.
  3. Proceed to the Automatic Gate: With your ticket in hand, head to the automatic gate to access the subway. Insert your ticket into the slot at the gate, and retrieve it as you pass through to enter the subway system, yellow slot at the ticket gate and retrieve it as you walk through. Remember to keep your ticket until you exit your destination station, as you'll need it to leave.

How to Use Tokyo Subway Pass

How to Use Tokyo Subway Pass
  1. Purchase the Pass Online: Ensure you have purchased your Tokyo Metro Pass online via Trip.com to avail of potential discounts.
  2. Electronic Ticket (QR Code Voucher): After purchasing, you will receive an electronic ticket, specifically a QR code voucher, which serves as a redemption voucher for physical tickets.
  3. Check Redemption Information: Prior to attempting redemption, consult the "Product Introduction" section to find out which stations allow redemption and to understand the specific method for redeeming your pass.
  4. Redeem Your Physical Ticket: Use your QR code voucher directly at the ticket vending machines designed for tourists, located in major Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway stations, to redeem your physical ticket. Once you insert the ticket through the ticket gate, your unlimited ride will start!
  5. Station Staff Assistance for Redemption: If you're at a station that doesn't have a tourist ticket vending machine, or if you encounter any issues, you can also exchange the QR code voucher with staff at the office of any Tokyo Metro station.

【Note】

  • There are exceptions for specific stations (Hibiya Line Kitasenju, Nakameguro, Nakano, Nishi Funabashi, Yoyogi Uehara, Wako City, and stations between Shibuya and Meguro on the Hanzomon and Fukutoshin Lines) where this service may not be available.
  • Guidance for Stations Without Vending Machines: Should your departure station lack a tourist ticket vending machine, seek assistance from station staff for directions on how to reach another station equipped with the necessary machines.
How to Use Tokyo Subway Pass

Steps to Use Tokyo Metro Pass

Tokyo Subway Opening Time

Tokyo Metro Opening Hours

The operating hours of each Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway line are different. It is usually between 4:30 and 00:30 the next day. The exact times can vary by line, so it's best to check the Japan Travel app for specifics.

Tokyo Metro Rush Hours

During rush hours, typically from 7:30 to 9:30 AM and 5:30 to 7:30 PM, Tokyo's subways get very crowded, especially in the morning. If you want to avoid the crowds or you're carrying big bags, try to travel outside these peak hours.

Popular Attractions around Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway

Hibiya Line (Tokyo Metro Line 2)

Roppongi (Roppongi Hills)
Roppongi Hills is a modern urban center home to offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, and the Mori Art Museum. The complex's centerpiece, Mori Tower, offers an observation deck with stunning views of Tokyo. Roppongi is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural events.

Roppongi Hills

Akihabara (Electric Town)
Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is the center for all things electronic and otaku culture, with numerous stores selling anime, manga, video games, and electronics. The area is a colorful and bustling district where fans of anime and manga can explore themed cafes and shops. Akihabara also hosts various events and promotions related to anime and games.

Electric Town

Chiyoda Line (Tokyo Metro Line 9)

Meiji Shrine (Meiji-jingu)
Located near Harajuku Station, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. It's a peaceful place amidst a forest in the heart of Tokyo. Visitors can walk through towering torii gates, visit the inner garden, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Meiji-jingu

Otemachi (Imperial Palace)
The Imperial Palace, near Otemachi Station, is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family. It's surrounded by moats and gardens, offering picturesque views, especially during cherry blossom season. Although the inner grounds are generally not open to the public, the East Gardens are accessible and offer a peaceful retreat.

Imperial Palace

Oedo Line (Toei Line 12)

Tsukiji Market (Tsukijishijo):
The Tsukiji Outer Market is famous for fresh seafood and the vibrant atmosphere of its food stalls and restaurants. While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji continues to attract food lovers eager to sample sushi and other seafood delicacies.

Tsukijishijo

Shinjuku (Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden):
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo's largest and most popular parks, located a short walk from Shinjuku Station. It blends three styles: traditional Japanese, formal French, and English Landscape. The park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Tokyo Hotels Recommodation

Best Hotels in Tokyo

5 star

9.3/10Great824 Reviews
Central Tokyo Tokyo|2.87km from city center
Beyond being a bit of a walk from the subway, everything else was impeccable. The room was spacious, and the corner glass windows offered great views. The tower building was affordable, unlike the main building which was out of my price range. The garden was expansive, though the cherry blossoms weren't in full bloom yet, so there weren't many flowers. The lower floors are all shopping malls; you can spend a lot of time just wandering around the hotel, from the tower to the main building. It's a great way to pass the time.
From€139
9.2/10Great1346 Reviews
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.49km from city center
This is a brand-new hotel with an excellent location, very close to the subway station. Ginza shopping street is just a few minutes' walk downstairs, yet it's not noisy at all. Downstairs, there's also Kyushu ramen, two FamilyMart convenience stores, and a drug store, making it very suitable for business travelers. Lobby: The lobby is on the 16th floor and offers direct views of Tokyo Tower. There's also a thoughtful smoking room provided for family members. Room: The room has a bit too much furniture, so we had to move some pieces around to open our luggage. The bathroom also functions as both a shower and a bathtub. Breakfast: The breakfast selection is very rich, offering both Japanese and Western options, and the view is also great. Highly recommended; I'll definitely stay here again!
From€187
9.5/10Amazing2332 Reviews
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.66km from city center
The hotel's location is convenient, very close to the subway station, making travel easy. Taxis are always waiting outside the entrance. The public areas are incredibly 'grand,' and while the room facilities are a bit dated, they exude an old-class charm. The soundproofing in the main building isn't great, which is directly related to its age. The annex, being less occupied, has less noise from people, but the railway noise is unavoidable and quite noticeable at night. Although breakfast wasn't lavish (I only tried the second floor and the Japanese restaurant on the first basement floor), it was full of ceremony. The service exceeded expectations; the front desk and the one-on-one guides all spoke excellent English. Their responses were prompt and their attitude was wonderful, which was very impressive. However, the service staff at the popular first-floor lobby restaurant were just average (it seemed they were more enthusiastic towards locals?). Overall, I still recommend it; it offers good value for money.
From€169
9.2/10Great3569 Reviews
Suidobashi/Tokyo Dome Tokyo|3.75km from city center
The room was incredibly spacious, and the elevators were very efficient. There are plenty of dining options nearby, and it's conveniently located close to both JR and subway lines, making transportation a breeze. The staff were very friendly, and the self-service check-in and check-out made everything super convenient. You can store your luggage after checking out, and there's a bus service to Haneda Airport.
From€68
9/10Great2175 Reviews
Tokyo Tower Area Tokyo|2.41km from city center
We booked the Tokyo tower side view room. When lying on the bed we are directly facing to the side of the Tokyo tower to enjoy the fantastic tower view. The room is with good size. There is a ventilation feature on the window bay where you can get some fresh air. The bathtub has the bottom massage function which I quite like it. The TV is a bit old and small though. The breakfast we chose is on the top floor where you can enjoy the city view around the hotel. Breakfast options are not too many but definitely enough, the taste is quite good I would say. There are many entertainment options in the hotel, such as public bath and bowling.
From€191

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Family friendly

9/10Great931 Reviews
Odaiba Tokyo|5.01km from city center
This hotel is super convenient, right by the Odaiba metro station – you can see it as soon as you exit! It was really easy to get to my exhibition, just a few stops away. The room was spacious enough, and for Tokyo, you get great value for your money at this price point. Plus, there's a mall nearby, so dining options are plentiful. They even have an airport bus service that you can book online, which is a big plus.
From€124
8.7/10Very Good4573 Reviews
Shinagawa Tokyo|5.46km from city center
This hotel is the closest one to Higashi-Ikebukuro Station, and right across from Sunshine City! The 7-Eleven downstairs was the most comprehensive one I found on this Tokyo trip. Even with a lot of people buying things, the checkout was super fast, with 6-7 staff working at once – very efficient. There's also bowling, an aquarium, a 100-yen shop, and a drugstore, all conveniently located downstairs. Every day was just shopping, shopping, shopping! Since tax refunds aren't as easy anymore, you might as well stock up.
From€79
9.4/10Amazing407 Reviews
Shibuya Tokyo|6.16km from city center
Such an amazing stay for 8 nights here with my family . Completely felt at home with the plentiful amenities which included daily hand wipes for using while out. Room was impeccably clean, superior customer service, beds were incredibly comfortable with high quality bedding, and the list goes on. Also a great location, in Shibuya, but not directly in the busy section. Would not hesitate to recommend this hotel to friends and family or stay here again. Honestly the BEST hotel I've stayed in Japan!!!
From€258
9.6/10Amazing163 Reviews
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|1.59km from city center
By far the most expensive hotel in Tokyo. Best swimming pool I've seen, great deco, very good breakfast. However I was expecting an absolutely spotless room but there were a few specs of dirt. Usually i wouldn't care about that, but I paid a tonne of money for this hotel so expected perfection. Super hotel but is it worth nearly double Bulgari hotel? Nah
From€1,400
9.4/10Amazing420 Reviews
Central Tokyo Tokyo|3km from city center
This hotel is in central Tokyo and it's really huge, bugger than The Okura. But the location isn't good for tourists. The nearest subway stations to go anywhere are a 12min walk away and the nearest konbini is also a 7min walk. The hotel itself has many restaurants and has a nice garden. The room I chose was spacious but the TV is facing the side of the bed rather than the front so watching TV wasn't convenient. Service was good. When I checked in the staff brought all my bags to my room with me and asked me if I needed anything. They also have turn down service in the evenings. Provided numerous towels.
From€148

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Hot spring

9/10Great791 Reviews
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.31km from city center
Though small, this hotel has everything you need. Its Ginza location is incredibly convenient, perfect for shopping or quickly getting to Narita Airport via the expressway. What truly impressed me is how many features are packed into such a compact space. They have a coin-operated laundry and a large public bath. The room, which I'd estimate at about 20 square meters, even managed to fit bunk beds (1.2m/1.5m), making it very family-friendly. A minor point is that since the hotel is directly above the subway, you occasionally feel vibrations as trains pass. This led to a funny moment when an actual earthquake hit at night, and I initially thought it was just another train going by!
From€73
9.1/10Great87 Reviews
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|1.84km from city center
My overall experience with this stay was quite complex, feeling more like a test of service management capabilities. On the first day, the room cleaning quality was noticeably below expectations. The wash area, countertop details, and some amenities weren't clean enough, and the bedding wasn't tidied properly. From a housekeeping management perspective, this felt more like a failure in process execution rather than an isolated incident, and it definitely affected my first impression. However, after I raised the issue, the hotel's recovery actions were prompt. In the following days, the room cleaning was significantly more standardized, with noticeable improvements in detail. This indicates that the hotel is capable of good service, but the initial day's execution standards simply weren't met. In contrast, Trip.com's service experience during this incident left a deeper impression. The customer service proactively followed up, communicated efficiently, and handled the situation professionally. They were able to push for problem resolution from a customer experience perspective, demonstrating a mature platform service system. This level of after-sales responsiveness is quite high among current online travel platforms. Overall Rating: The hotel's hardware and positioning are fine, but there's room for improvement in service consistency, especially regarding the first-day delivery standards of housekeeping management. Trip.com's coordination and service performance in this incident, on the other hand, highlighted the professional value of their platform.
From€616
8.9/10Very Good211 Reviews
Shinjuku Area Tokyo|5.44km from city center
I chose this hotel because of its location (10-15 min walk from nearest train station) and the onsen. There is a 7-11 conveniently located right across the hotel which is perfect for a quick breakfast / supper. The hotel’s onsen operates from 6AM-10AM and 3PM-2AM. It was so nice to take a dip in the warm onsen and enjoy the Tokyo skyline after a full day of walking. Would highly recommend if you are looking for a hotel in Shinjuku area that offers some peace amidst the hustle and bustle!
From€123
9/10Great743 Reviews
Ueno/Asakusa Tokyo|5.55km from city center
It was a small but lovely hotel. You take your shoes off at the beginning and walk without shoes. At night they have free ramen which was delicious and their morning breakfast was crazy good. The hotel is a little older but it was clean. And all the amenities and it’s location make this place so worth it.
From€94
8.9/10Very Good2002 Reviews
Odaiba Tokyo|4.46km from city center
This is my second stay here. The price is reasonable, and while breakfast is a bit pricey, it's definitely worth it with many delicious and unique local dishes. They have a parking lot, and guests only pay 2500 JPY for 24 hours, which is very fair for Tokyo. The hot spring is also half price for guests, 2200 JPY for adults and 1300 JPY for children. There's a large shopping mall directly connected to the hotel on the sixth floor, offering plenty of great food options like yakiniku and sushi. It's less than a 5-minute walk from Ariake Tennis no Mori Station, and there's a convenience store right opposite the hotel, which is super convenient. Odaiba's core area is just a 1.3 km walk away, making it easy to shop and explore. If you're tired, a ride back won't break the bank.
From€39

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Bethy

Bethy

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Hey there! I’m Bethy (Huang Lan, 黄澜) – a travel enthusiast and content creator for Trip.com. I live as a digital nomad, mostly based in China, and I’ve also lived in awesome places across Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. I love traveling all over the world, sharing useful travel tips and guides for fellow wanderlusters. When I’m not on the road, I’m a huge cat lover and play guitar for fun~

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