Last July, my older sister and I decided to go to Machida, Tokyo, together. It was our first time taking the Japanese train system. We hopped on the train at Odakyu Sagamihara Station and ended up in Tsurukawa, a different station, lost and scared. After a couple of trials and errors on a few different trains, we finally made it to our destination.

How we got lost within the two stops between Machida and Tsurukawa, we will never know. The lesson, however, was loud and clear: Understanding how to navigate the system is really important.

Get comfortable

Getting comfortable taking trains can be very stressful, but here’s how to get used to using them in Japan.

When you arrive at the station, you want to know where you’re going, which line you need to take and what stop to get off. Typically, I use the Google Maps app on my smartphone to plan my route.

You can buy a ticket at the machines in the station, or if you already have an IC card (Suica or Pasmo), just tap into the gate. Your app will usually tell you which platform to go to, but if you aren’t sure, you can always ask the station attendant at the window for help. If you don’t speak Japanese and they are struggling with English, you can show them your phone with the app info on it, and they can point you in the right direction.

At your platform, line up and when your train arrives, make sure to let all who are exiting leave the train before you enter.

Train etiquette

Once on the train, it’s important to practice proper train etiquette: silence your devices, speak quietly and try not to be a nuisance to other riders. Also, if you happen to have a backpack on, make sure to wear it around your front once boarding the train, this allows for the respect of others’ space and for your own safety.

When you exit a train, it’s easiest to follow the crowd out and make your way to the gate. Follow the yellow signs for your designated exit. Depending on the station, you may be looking for a north, south, east, west, alphabetic or numeric exit. Either way, the signboards will always be yellow and hard to miss. Once you are out of the station, you’ve done it! Congratulations.

Occasionally, you may find yourself needing to transfer or take a bus to the next station, especially if you are going somewhere far. If you do, remember to follow the signs and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Though the train system can be hard to understand, it is also fascinating because it is one of the most efficient in the world. The trains can reach shocking speeds, with bullet trains reaching up to 200 mph. They’re also known for their punctuality and are rarely ever late. Japanese trains are clean, the systems are organized, and the stations offer so much to explore. So don’t be afraid to experience it for yourself.

An extremely important part of navigating the train system is having some form of a guide. Google Maps and Japan Transit are extremely helpful throughout the process, so make sure you have a useful app to help you out!

My top train tips

1. Get a Pasmo or Suica You can purchase a new one from the ticket machines inside the station. Depending on what train line you’re riding, you might end up with one or the other. The cards make it so much easier and faster to navigate through stations. Plus, you can use them as a payment method at convenience stores, restaurants, even clothing shops!

2. Look at exits and make sure they match the directions on your phone. Leaving big stations through the correct exits makes the experience so much less stressful and helps you get to your destination faster.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask the station staff for help. No need to panic when there are people around to help you. Even with the language barrier, most will go out of their way to help you.

4. Pay attention to arrival announcements so you don’t miss your stop. Also, above the train doors there will always be a screen which tells you where the train will stop next (in Japanese and English).

5. Double check your platform. I’ve missed quite a few trains because I was on the other side of the track, so make sure you know which stairs you’re taking.

Maame Akua Sarpong is a senior at Zama Middle High School on Camp Zama. Sarpong has a love for creativity and exploring and enjoys reading, crocheting and travel. She likes to capture moments through photography and to volunteer in her community.

Camp Zama

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