For foreigners starting life in Japan, learning how to use trains is very important.
This article clearly explains how to ride trains in Japan, how to use IC cards, and how to buy tickets, using Osaka as an example.
IC Cards Are the Main Way to Use Trains in Japan
In Japan, many people use IC cards when riding trains.
An IC card is a transportation card that lets you ride trains simply by tapping at the ticket gate.
Common IC cards used in Osaka include:
- ICOCA
- PiTaPa
- Suica
- PASMO
In Osaka, ICOCA is especially popular.
Benefits of Using an IC Card
- No need to buy tickets every time
- Just tap the card at the gate
- Easy transfers between trains
- Can also be used at some convenience stores and vending machines
If you plan to live in Japan for a long time, having an IC card is very convenient.
How to Get an IC Card in Osaka
You can buy IC cards such as ICOCA at station ticket machines or station counters.
Ticket machine↓
How to Buy an ICOCA Card
- Go to a JR station
- Select “ICOCA” on the ticket machine
- Insert the required amount of money
- Receive your card
When purchasing for the first time, a deposit fee may be required.
How to Ride a Train with an IC Card
1. Tap the IC Card at the Gate
When entering the station, tap your card on the IC reader at the ticket gate.
If you hear a sound and the gate opens, you may pass through.
2. Board the Train
Check the destination and platform, then board the correct train.
In Osaka, even at the same station, there may be many lines and directions, so be careful.
3. Tap Again When Exiting
When you arrive at your destination station, tap the IC card again at the exit gate.
The fare will be deducted automatically.
If Your IC Card Balance Is Too Low
If your balance is insufficient, you may not be able to exit the gate.
In that case, charge your card at a fare adjustment machine or ticket machine.
How to Charge Your Card
- Insert the IC card into the machine
- Select the amount to charge
- Insert cash
- Receive your card
At many Osaka stations, you can charge from ¥1,000.
How to Buy a Ticket and Ride
If you do not have an IC card, you can also buy a paper ticket.
How to Buy a Ticket
- Go to the ticket machine
- Check the fare to your destination on the route map (You can find a route map above the ticket machine)
- Buy a ticket for that amount
- Insert the ticket into the gate when entering
- Insert the ticket again when exiting
Your ticket will be collected when you leave the station.
Osaka Example: Going from Namba Station to Umeda Station
As a common Osaka example, let’s look at traveling from Namba Station to Umeda Station.
You can use the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and go directly without transfers.
There are many train lines within “Umeda Station,” and there are also stations such as “Nishi-Umeda Station” and “Higashi-Umeda Station.”
Some places labeled “Umeda” may be farther from your actual destination, so it is important to check carefully
Using an IC Card
- Tap your ICOCA or other IC card at Namba Station
- Take the train toward Umeda on the Midosuji Line
- Get off at Umeda Station
- Tap your card at the exit gate
Buying a Ticket
- Check the fare to Umeda at Namba Station
- Buy a ticket
- Insert the ticket at the gate
- Insert the ticket again when exiting at Umeda
Things to Be Careful About on Osaka Trains
Many Train Lines
Osaka has many railway companies such as JR, Osaka Metro, Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, Keihan, and Nankai.
In Osaka Metro, each line has its own designated color.
Ex.) Midosuji Line: Red, Chuo Line: Green.
It may be helpful to use these colors as a reference.
Even stations called “Osaka” may have different locations or lines, so be careful.
Check the Direction
Before boarding, always check the destination direction.
If you board the wrong direction, you may go farther away from your destination.
Understand Local and Rapid Trains
Japanese trains include Local, Rapid, Express, and other types.
Rapid and Express trains do not stop at every station.
Check whether your destination station is included before boarding.
Useful Apps
Route search apps are very useful when riding trains in Japan.
- Google Maps
- Yahoo! Transit Guide
- Japan Transit Planner
Simply enter your departure and destination stations to see routes, transfers, fares, and travel time.
Train Manners in Japan
- Do not speak loudly inside the train
- Avoid phone calls when possible
- Offer seats to those who need them in priority seating areas
- Carry backpacks in front of you
- Let passengers exit first
Quiet behavior is generally expected on Japanese trains.
Summary
The most convenient way to ride trains in Japan is by using an IC card.
In Osaka, having an ICOCA card allows you to use many train systems such as JR and Osaka Metro.
Even without an IC card, you can still buy tickets at station machines.
It may feel difficult at first, but apps like Google Maps make traveling easy.
If you are living in Osaka, prepare an IC card and enjoy stress-free train travel.
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