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From regional sightseeing trains to the shinkansen (bullet train), Japan is famous for rail travel. Whether you’re here as a tourist or a resident, trains are often a part of daily life. There are plenty of apps available to make your trips smoother and give you all you need to know along the way. You can avoid some of the worst stations in Tokyo, too. Here’s our list of the 10 best train apps in Japan. And, while you’re at it, be sure to check out our article on proper train etiquette in Japan.
Suica and Pasmo Apps
Suica download link: Apple Store / Google Play
Pasmo download link: Apple Store / Google Play
Replacing the physical Suica and Pasmo IC cards, these apps allow you to add funds to your balance quickly. No need to find a recharging machine after stepping off the train anymore. Simply input your payment information, and you’re set. Also, you can use the app as a cashless payment method when shopping.
- Avoid scrambling to recharge your IC card when you’re in a hurry.
- Go cashless.
- Use the apps in stations, stores and restaurants all over Japan.
Yahoo Transit
Download link: Apple Store / Google Play
With the Yahoo Transit app, it’s a breeze to map out your route from the point of departure to the destination. Covering multiple forms of transportation, including regular commuter trains, limited express trains, shinkansen (bullet trains), ferries, airplanes and more, you’ll have all the information you need to get from point A to point B. Shave minutes off your travel time and beat the crowds with Yahoo Transit’s guide to the best doors to access stairs, escalators and elevators off the platform.
- Use it throughout Japan.
- Check station information, including restrooms and access points.
- Bookmark regular destinations like work and home.
Japan Transit Planner
Download link: Apple Store / Google Play
One of Japan’s most popular train apps, Japan Transit Planner is a multilingual platform offering detailed routes to your destination. The app offers a variety of route options and includes most stations in Japan.
If your commute includes a ferry or limited express train, Japan Transit Planner is here to help, too. When taking a trip for business or pleasure to another prefecture, shinkansen and airplane timetables are also available. Plus, don’t worry about being ill-prepared for the weather. This app gives a weather forecast for the destination so you don’t get caught in the rain.
- Paid plans are available with extra information about the platform for convenient transfers.
- Buy special sightseeing bus tickets in-app for hassle-free tours of popular cities.
- Sort your routes by time and fare so you can make the best decision.
Google Maps
Download link: Apple Store / Google Play
Get to know your route and everything happening along the way with the Google Map app. It’s simple. Choose a start and end location, and the app will provide several ways to get there. Filter your results by mode of transportation to ensure you use only a train or bus.
If you’re driving part of the way, Google Maps can help factor that in, too, and provide train times the rest of the way. With information about delays and how busy a specific train is, you can choose the route that’s most convenient for you.
- Download maps if you’re going to be offline.
- You can catch a ride with taxi companies like Didi or Go to help you get from the station to your destination.
- Choose from several routes, including the fastest, cheapest, least amount of walking and fewest transfers.
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4 Comments
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falseflagsteve
I don’t bother will all that lark to be honest. I bookmark the sites for the over line trains and check them. Don’t have to bother with subway, so many of them anyway around my manor.
owzer
I thought the number one train app in Japan was the Camera app!
(That’s sarcasm for those that don’t easily recognize such)
virusrex
Still unfortunate that the pasmo/suica apps can't be downloaded to a smartwatch that is not from Apple if you are using a commuter pass, this situation have continued for years already so I guess it is some kind of deal/monopoly without a possibility for any change soon.
garypen
As usual, a Tokyo-centric viewpoint of Japan. For people living in Kansai, the Icoca app might be preferable to Suica/Pasmo. Although, it's kind of a pain in the butt to set up.
Missing in the article is the SmartEX app to purchase shinkansen tickets and reserve seats. If you purchase more than a few days in advance, there's a discount from the regular fare.
Also, several of the apps mentioned are Japanese language only, such as Yahoo Transit, which could make them difficult to use for many readers here.
Personally, I have found Google Maps to provide detailed and accurate train info and walking directions, including track numbers, and best train car and station exits for your final destination.
OTOH, their driving directions often take me down some difficult to maneuver streets. So, for driving, I use my car navi, but keep G Maps open for the most detailed traffic info.