Taking a regular train in Japan

Step by step

1. 01

   IC card or ticket

   An IC card (Suica, ICOCA, etc.) is the easiest — charge it at a machine. For a paper ticket, buy the fare to your destination at the ticket machine.

2. 02

   Through the gate

   Tap the IC card on the reader, or insert the paper ticket and take it back. If it beeps red, see staff at the window or intercom.

3. 03

   Platform & where to stand

   Line up on the floor marks and let people off first. Check the destination/type (Local, Rapid, Express) on the sign — they stop at different stations.

4. 04

   On board

   Keep phone calls off, especially near priority seats. Hold a backpack in front of you when crowded.

5. 05

   Get off and exit

   Tap out with your IC card at your station. If the balance is short, top up at a Fare Adjustment machine before the gate.

Next, you might wonder

• Riding the Tokaido Shinkansen
• Getting on and off a local bus in Japan