Tips to Get Around Tokyo Like a Local

Tokyo, one of the most populous cities in the world, can be overwhelming for first-time visitors because of its sheer size. Having been born and raised in Tokyo and living here for over 30 years, I've witnessed a further increase in population, especially in recent years due to the rise in tourism.

While Tokyo is renowned for its well-developed public transportation system, how do locals navigate this densely populated city on a day-to-day basis? Understanding how locals get around might offer some insights.

1. Avoid Rush Hour Trains

You've probably seen videos of crowded Tokyo trains where people are packed like sardines. And that’s really what we see every day in Tokyo.

Even locals don't necessarily enjoy squeezing onto those trains, so if your schedule allows, it's best to avoid riding trains during rush hour, typically between 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (usually evenings are not as bad as mornings).

In Tokyo, a lot of places, even coffee shops, don’t open before 10 a.m. So, the key is to start the day a little later, stay out until the late hours, and avoid crowded trains.

2. Avoid the Mildly Air-Conditioned Train Cars

Japanese trains and subways are notorious for their poor air conditioning, especially during summer.

Avoid cars labeled as “弱冷房車 (mildly air-conditioned car)" because, as the name suggests, the air conditioning in these cars is even less strong, which can be quite uncomfortable for foreigners.

3. Consider Walking for Short Distances

Tokyo is a pedestrian-friendly city. Especially for distances of just one station in the central Tokyo, it's sometimes quicker to walk than to transfer trains. Walking to the next station typically takes around 15 minutes or less.

Plus, Tokyo is filled with plenty of restaurants and shops along the way, so you won't get bored during your stroll. Sometimes, taking a short walk and exploring might lead you to discover charming cafes or stores unexpectedly.

4. Locals Rarely Take Taxis

Locals don’t take taxis very often because they are more expensive than trains and often take longer. Some drivers don't know how to use a GPS navigation system, some don't know their way around and take long detours, and often simply get stuck in traffic.

However, if you're too tired to walk and decide to take a taxi, I recommend choosing this type of taxi. They are newer vehicles, more spacious, and it seems that many of these taxis are driven by drivers who utilize GPS effectively.

5. Utilize Share Scooters and Bicycles

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of shared electric scooters and bicycles in various parts of the city, and more and more people are using these services. They're ideal for distances that are a bit too far to walk but a hassle to take the train. Exploring Tokyo's streets with a slightly different experience from walking or driving might be enjoyable.

Main bike-sharing services in Tokyo:

By adopting these local transportation habits, you can navigate the city like a local and explore it like a pro!