How to search for transfer routes in Tokyo using Google Maps or similar apps?

Tokyo TravelPublic TransportationRoute PlanningNavigation Apps
Created At: 8/15/2025Updated At: 8/18/2025
Answer (1)

No problem! Using Google Maps or similar apps to check routes in Tokyo is actually very simple, similar to using Gaode or Baidu Maps back home. But there are a few small details to pay attention to – master these and you'll move around with ease!

Core Tool: Google Maps

For the vast majority of travellers, Google Maps is the most convenient and intuitive choice. Its data is highly accurate and it supports Chinese, making it very easy to use with virtually no barriers.

Basic Steps

  1. Enter Start & End Points:

    • Open Google Maps and enter your start and end locations in the search box.
    • You can type directly in Chinese, like "新宿" (Shinjuku), "浅草寺" (Sensō-ji), or even your hotel name – Google will recognize it. You can also long-press directly on the map to select a location.

  2. Select the "Public Transport" Icon:

    • After entering the locations, tap the "Directions" button. The map will then show options like driving, public transport, and walking.
    • Crucially, tap the train icon 🚆. This represents "Public Transport," encompassing subways, JR (Japan Railways), private railways, and buses.

  3. Review & Choose a Route:

    • The app will list several recommended routes, usually sorted by "Best route," "Fewest transfers," or "Least walking."
    • Each route clearly shows: Total travel time, Fare, and Number of transfers.

How to Understand the Route Results (This is key!)

Understanding the route details is essential to avoid getting lost in the maze-like stations. Let's break down the information:

  • Line Name & Direction

    • This is the most important info! The app tells you which line to take and in which direction.
    • Example: JR Yamanote Line · Towards Shibuya/Sinagawa
      • JR Yamanote Line: This is the name of the line you need to take. Look up at the station signs for this name.
      • Towards Shibuya/Sinagawa: This is the direction the train is going. The same line has two opposing directions; this tells you which platform side to go to. Follow the signs pointing to these station names.

  • Platform Number

    • The app often shows 3番線発 or Platform 3.
    • 番線 (bansen) means platform. This tells you to wait for the train at Platform 3. This is especially useful at large transfer stations (like Shinjuku, Tokyo, Shibuya), saving you significant time finding your way.

  • Fare

    • The displayed fare is usually the price for a single paper ticket.
    • If you use a transport IC card like Suica or Pasmo (similar to transit cards back home), the actual tapped fare might be slightly cheaper (a few yen), and you skip the hassle of buying tickets each time. Highly recommended to get one or set it up on your phone (supported by iPhone's Apple Pay and some Android phones).

  • Transfer Information

    • If a transfer is required, the app will clearly mark where to get off (e.g., "at xx Station").
    • It will then show how many minutes you need to walk to reach the next line. Pay attention: at some big stations in Tokyo, transfers can genuinely take 5-10 minutes of walking. The walk time given by the app is very valuable.

Some Very Useful "Pro Tips"

  1. Get a Transport IC Card: Strongly recommend buying a Suica (Welcome Suica also available at airports) or Pasmo card upon arrival, or setting one up directly in your phone wallet. With it, you can seamlessly "tap" in and out of subways, JR, and other trains from any company without buying separate tickets. Transfers become hassle-free and incredibly convenient.

  2. Understand Different Rail Companies: Tokyo's rail system is mainly operated by several companies: JR East, Tokyo Metro (東京メトロ), and Toei Subway (都営地下鉄). These are separate systems. Sometimes when transferring, you need to exit the gates of one company and enter the gates of another. Google Maps accounts for this in its route planning – just follow the instructions. Using an IC card eliminates any worry about fare calculations between companies.

  3. Mind the Last Train (終電 / Shūden): If you plan to stay out late, always use the app to check the last train time back to your accommodation. Public transport in Tokyo generally stops running between midnight and 1:00 AM. Missing the last train means taxis, which are very, very expensive!

  4. Utilize Station and Line Codes: To aid foreign visitors, Tokyo subway lines have letter codes, and stations have number codes. For example, the Ginza Line is G, and the Hibiya Line is H. Roppongi Station on the Hibiya Line will have the station code H04 alongside the Kanji characters "六本木". Sometimes spotting the code is faster than reading Kanji! Google Maps also displays these codes in the route details.

Other Useful App Recommendations

While Google Maps is sufficient for most, if you want a more "localized" experience, try this:

  • NAVITIME for Japan Travel:
    • An app specifically designed for travellers to Japan, packed with detailed information.
    • Its biggest advantage: it tells you "which carriage number to board/get off for the closest elevator/stairs to your transfer" and recommends "which exit number" is closest to your destination. In massive stations like Shinjuku with hundreds of exits, this feature is a lifesaver!
    • If you have a JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass), it can also plan routes prioritizing JR lines.

In conclusion, while Tokyo's transit system might look like a spider's web, having a reliable app on your phone, plus a little patience and attention to the "Line Name," "Direction," and "Platform Number," means you can navigate it with ease. Enjoy your time in Tokyo!

Created At: 08-15 05:25:10Updated At: 08-15 10:09:24