Tokyo Station is one of the largest terminal stations in Japan, and first-time visitors will be surprised by its size and complexity.
With the Tokaido Shinkansen, Tohoku Shinkansen, conventional lines, and subways intersecting at this huge station, it is not uncommon to get lost in transit.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the key points for overseas visitors to transfer smoothly from one train to another at Tokyo Station.
Please refer to the following easy-to-understand tips to help you reach your destination without getting lost.
- Attack the complex structure of Tokyo Station! Utilize floor plans
- Introduction of Tokaido and Tohoku Shinkansen ticket gates and the ticket passing process
- Shinkansen to conventional train transfer strategy
- No need to be troubled at Tokyo Station! English speaking support
- Where can I turn to when I get lost? How to use the Information Center
- Suitcases and strollers are safe! Points to keep in mind when moving
- Travel more convenient with Tokyo Station's Eki-naka service!
- A guide to the best places to go in the station! Great places to eat and rest!
- Comfortable travel at Tokyo Station!
Attack the complex structure of Tokyo Station! Utilize floor plans
Tokyo Station is one of the largest terminal stations in Japan, and first-time visitors are often surprised by its size and complex structure.
Especially for those coming from overseas, the intricate structure of numerous lines and platforms spread out above and below ground may make it difficult to change trains.
To ensure smooth transfers, it is important to understand the station structure in advance and to use the floor map.
Tokyo Station is divided into four major floors. Above ground are the platforms for the Shinkansen bullet trains, below which are the JR conventional lines, and further underground are the platforms for the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and the Keiyo, Yokosuka, and Sobu Rapid Lines, which are located a short distance away.
The key to moving between floors is to make good use of elevators and escalators.
For example, when transferring from the Shinkansen to the subway, it is important to allow extra time for travel, as long passages and multiple flights of stairs may be required.
In a large station like Tokyo Station, checking the floor map in advance will help you move efficiently.
You can download a multilingual floor map from the official Tokyo Station website, so it is convenient to save it on your smartphone so you can check it anytime.
In addition, please use the "Tokyo Station Point-and-Speak Map" from TOKYO STATION MAP to facilitate transfers within the station.
And if you get lost, it is important to check with station staff or at the information desk.
By checking the map in advance and being prepared, you will be able to move comfortably even in the vast Tokyo Station.
JR East: Station Map and Barrier-Free Information (Tokyo Station) (jreast.co.jp)
TOKYO STATION MAP Tokyo Station Point-and-Speak Map
Introduction of Tokaido and Tohoku Shinkansen ticket gates and the ticket passing process
This section details the basic procedures for the Tokaido and Tohoku Shinkansen lines, including the ticket gate and ticket passing process, so that even first-time overseas visitors can proceed with ease.
By understanding the automatic ticket gates in the station and the key points for purchasing tickets in advance, you will be able to use the Shinkansen smoothly.
Let's figure out where the Tokaido and Tohoku Shinkansen ticket gates are located.
When using the Tokaido/Tohoku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station, it is important to know in advance where the ticket gate is located.
Tokyo Station is so large and so many people come and go that first-time visitors often get lost.
However, if you know the location of the ticket gate in advance, you will be able to board the Shinkansen smoothly.
If you are taking the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Osaka/Nagoya direction), the Yaesu South Exit or Shinkansen South Transfer Exit is convenient.
The platforms are Lines 14-19, which are close to the Tokaido Shinkansen platforms and are the main entrances used by many people.
On the other hand, if you are using the Tohoku Shinkansen (from Tokyo to Sendai or Morioka), the Yaesu North Exit or the Shinkansen North Transfer Exit are easily accessible.
Since it is directly connected to the platform of the Shinkansen heading for Tohoku, it would be safer to confirm in advance which ticket gate you will use depending on your destination. (Platforms are Lines 20 to 23))
The ticket gate is located on the first floor of Tokyo Station and is equipped with escalators and elevators, making it possible for visitors with large luggage or wheelchairs to use the station with ease.
To ensure a smooth trip or business trip, we recommend that you check the location of the ticket gates before heading to the station.
Prepare your ticket! Steps to pass through the ticket gate smoothly
When boarding the Shinkansen at Tokyo Station, it is important to prepare your ticket well in advance in order to pass through the ticket gates smoothly.
Here is a simple explanation of the procedure for going through the turnstiles.
First, there are two types of Shinkansen tickets. One is a paper ticket and the other is an electronic ticket using an IC card or smartphone app.
The procedure to go through the ticket gate is basically the same for both tickets.
- "Prepare your ticket" For paper tickets, there are two tickets: a boarding ticket and an express ticket. For electronic tickets, you will use the QR code displayed on your smartphone or the information pre-loaded on your IC card. It is important to have both ready at hand in advance.
- "Going through the ticket gate" The ticket gate has a place to insert a paper ticket and a sensor to touch an IC card or QR code. For a paper ticket, insert both the boarding ticket and the express ticket into the ticket gate together. The machine reads the tickets and automatically returns one ticket (boarding ticket) after passing through, so do not forget to pick it up. For electronic tickets, simply touch your smartphone or IC card to the sensor part of the ticket gate machine.
- "After passing through the ticket gate" After passing through the ticket gate, if you have a paper ticket, keep it until the drop-off station. If you use an IC card or QR code, you will need to touch the card again when you get off.
Remembering the above steps will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride on the Shinkansen at Tokyo Station.
Let's move smoothly from the Shinkansen ticket gate to the exit!
Language displays are very useful for smoothly moving from the Shinkansen ticket gates to the Yaesu or Marunouchi exit at Tokyo Station.
Signs in multiple languages, including English, Chinese (traditional and simplified), and Korean, are placed throughout Tokyo Station.
Therefore, travelers from abroad will be able to move around without hesitation.
1. Move to Yaesu Exit
After exiting the Shinkansen ticket gates, visitors can proceed toward the Yaesu Exit without getting lost, as English signs such as "Yaesu Exit" are well placed.
The displays are easy to read and are designed with foreign travelers in mind.
The Yaesu exit is especially convenient for shopping and access to the bus terminal.
2. Move to Marunouchi Exit
When heading to the Marunouchi Exit, English signs such as "Marunouchi Exit" are also clearly displayed.
This exit, which provides easy access to the business district and tourist attractions (e.g., the Imperial Palace), is equipped with multilingual information signs, allowing even overseas visitors to move around with ease.
Signage is also visually clear and designed with the traveler's flow in mind, so even first-time visitors will be able to move smoothly through the area.
As you can see, Tokyo Station is well equipped with multilingual support, making it a safe and comfortable environment for travelers from abroad to move around.
Shinkansen to conventional train transfer strategy
This is an easy-to-understand guide for first-time visitors on how to smoothly transfer from the Shinkansen to a conventional train at Tokyo Station.
Although Tokyo Station is intermingled with many train lines, if you check the route in advance, you will be able to get around without getting lost.
- "Transfer to JR conventional lines."
Tokaido Line platforms 9 and 10
Ueno-Tokyo Line platforms 7 and 8
Yamanote Line (Yamanote Line) platform 4.5
Keihin-Tohoku Line Platform 3.6
Chuo Line (platform 1.2)
Transfers to the above can be accessed using the Central, South, and North Passages after exiting the Shinkansen ticket gates. These lines are located from the center of the station toward the Marunouchi side, so once you exit the Shinkansen ticket gates, follow the "Marunouchi Direction" signs to reach your desired platform in sequence. The nearest Tokaido Line is about a 2-4 minute walk away, and the furthest Chuo Line is about a 3-7 minute walk away.
- "Transfer to the Keiyo Line."
When heading to Tokyo Disney Resort or other destinations, you will need to transfer to the Keiyo Line (Keiyo Line). After exiting the "Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen South Transfer Exit," turn left and go straight down Keiyo Street to the B1 level. From there, use the moving walkway to reach the Keiyo Line platform on the fourth basement floor. It takes about 7 minutes on foot from the Shinkansen ticket gates to the Keiyo Line platform.
- "Transfer to Yokosuka Line and Sobu Line"
To transfer to the Yokosuka Line or Sobu Line, proceed along the central passageway toward Marunouchi. Take the stairs down to the B1 level, and continue to the B5 level to reach the platform for the Yokosuka and Sobu Lines. Again, the time required from the ticket gate to the platform is approximately 7 to 10 minutes.
If you keep the above route in mind, you will be able to smoothly transfer from the Shinkansen to a conventional train and move to your next destination without getting lost within Tokyo Station.
No need to be troubled at Tokyo Station! English speaking support
Tokyo Station is an international terminal used by many tourists and is well supported by English-speaking staff.
A variety of support services are available for first-time visitors and those who do not understand Japanese to help them get around.
English-language information boards and staff assistance, as well as convenient digital tools, will help you move smoothly through the station without language barriers.
This section details the English-language support available at Tokyo Station.
Check out the English signage available in the station!
English-language signs are provided at Tokyo Station to facilitate smooth travel for foreign visitors.
Even if it is your first visit, the station is designed so that you can reach your destination without getting lost in the station.
Here are some specific situations where English notation is useful.
- "Information on platforms and ticket gates."
Signs such as "Exit" and "Ticket Gate" are clearly displayed in English around the platforms and ticket gates of the Shinkansen and conventional lines. Platform numbers and destinations for each line are also listed in English, and if you follow the English guidance when changing trains, you will be able to reach your destination without getting lost. English-language arrows and signs are placed everywhere, so even first-time visitors to Tokyo Station can feel at ease.
- "Exit directions."
Yaesu Exit (Yaesu Exit) and Marunouchi Exit (Marunouchi Exit), the main exits of Tokyo Station, are also clearly marked in English. When traveling to a business or tourist area, it is easy to tell at a glance which exit to use, making for a smooth journey to your destination. In particular, there are multiple directions at the Yaesu and Marunouchi Exits, making it especially convenient to choose the best route depending on which area you are heading to.
- "Facility Information".
The station also offers extensive information on facilities, with signs such as "Restroom" and "Information" written in English. The visually appealing design makes it easy for foreign travelers to quickly find the facilities they need. Furthermore, coin lockers, restaurants, and shopping areas also have English-language guidance, so there is no need to worry about shopping and dining.
These English-language signs make Tokyo Station a safe and comfortable place for foreign travelers to get around. By following the English signs, you will be able to reach your destination without getting lost, making it a comfortable experience even for first-time visitors.
Where can I turn to when I get lost? How to use the Information Center
The Information Center is the place to go when you get lost and need help at Tokyo Station. Due to its size and complex structure, Tokyo Station can often be confusing to foreign visitors visiting the station for the first time.
For this reason, we recommend that you make use of the Information Center.
You can reach your destination smoothly.
1. information center location and services
Tokyo Station has several information centers. Located near the Marunouchi Central Exit and Yaesu Central Exit, they are staffed with English and other multilingual staff for your peace of mind.
You can receive assistance with tourist information, transit information, maps of the premises, and much more.
Even travelers using Tokyo Station for the first time can feel free to drop by without getting lost.
2. telephone support "JR East Infoline
If you cannot go directly to the Information Center or have an urgent question, the JR East Info Line, a telephone support service, is available.
English, Chinese, and Korean are available, and questions can be answered in real time.
Hours of operation are from 10:00 to 18:00 daily (except for year-end and New Year holidays), and the phone number is 050-2016-1603. This is a convenient service that can be utilized when you get lost in the station.
3. multilingual signage and station numbering system
At Tokyo Station, information signs are also posted in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages.
This makes it easy for foreign travelers to navigate the station and find exits and transfer points.
A station numbering system has also been introduced, and each station and line is indicated by a number, making it easy to navigate intuitively even if you do not understand Japanese.
For example, the Marunouchi Line is numbered "M01" and the Ginza Line "G13," so you will not get lost when moving or changing trains.
4. official website of JR East
If you want to check information in advance, the official website of JR East is convenient.
Information pages are available in nine languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, and include route maps and tourist information.
Planning in advance before arriving at the site will make getting around the station much easier.
If you are in trouble at Tokyo Station, the Information Center can be of great help.
Multilingual information and staff, telephone support, and a station numbering system make it easy for foreign travelers to get around.
By taking advantage of our support in any situation, you will be able to move smoothly and comfortably in Tokyo Station.
JR-EAST - East Japan Railway Company (jreast.co.jp)
JR East Ekitabi Concierge Tokyo
Suitcases and strollers are safe! Points to keep in mind when moving
Tokyo Station is one of Japan's major terminal stations, where numerous train lines converge.
When traveling with suitcases or strollers, it can be intimidating to move around in a large station, but a few tips will help you get around with ease.
Here are some tips for getting around Tokyo Station in comfort.
1. actively use elevators and escalators
Tokyo Station is well-equipped with elevators and escalators near platforms, ticket gates, and exits.
If you have suitcases or a stroller, there is no need to force yourself to take the stairs.
Elevators located throughout the building make it easy to get around.
In addition, elevator locations are clearly indicated by information signs.
Checking the elevator locations in advance will help you move around comfortably even during busy times.
2. "Tokyo Station Navi" for searching routes with no steps
Even more convenient is the official "Tokyo Station Navi" application.
The app can search for routes with no steps, which is very useful when using a suitcase or stroller.
Elevator and ramp locations are displayed, so there is no need to be troubled by steps while moving.
The application can be downloaded for free, so installing it in advance will make getting around Tokyo Station even easier.
3. smooth movement through wide aisles
Tokyo Station is crowded with people during busy times, but there are several wide aisles within the station, making it easy to move around without crowding, even if you have suitcases or a stroller with you.
In particular, avoiding morning and evening commuting times makes travel even more comfortable.
Wide aisles reduce the risk of bumping into other users and allow for stress-free travel.
4. consideration for coin-operated lockers for luggage and baby strollers
Tokyo Station also has an abundance of coin-operated lockers, so you can leave your large luggage at the station and travel light.
For those using strollers, the station also offers a wide elevator and priority space for strollers.
Making good use of these facilities will make your travel at Tokyo Station even more comfortable.
Travel more convenient with Tokyo Station's Eki-naka service!
Tokyo Station offers a number of convenient station services to make travelers' lives easier.
Especially for foreign travelers visiting Japan for the first time, these services will make travel and sightseeing smoother.
Here are the main services available in and around Tokyo Station.
TIC TOKYO - Tourist Information Center for Foreigners
Located in front of the Nihonbashi Exit of Tokyo Station, TIC TOKYO (Tokyo Visitors Information Center) is a foreigner tourist information center authorized by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization).
Here you can get tourist information not only for Tokyo but also for all of Japan.
Multilingual staff, including English-speaking staff, are on hand to provide courteous assistance with information on tourist attractions and transportation.
It is a place where you can easily consult with us when your sightseeing plans suddenly change and you are not sure where to go.
Open from 10:00 to 19:00. Please take advantage of this service during your trip.
2. use coin lockers to travel light
Many coin-operated lockers are located in Tokyo Station, allowing visitors to leave their suitcases and baggage and travel light.
Locker sizes and fees vary by location, so it is convenient to check in advance.
In addition, although lockers may be full when crowded, you can check the availability of coin-operated lockers and reserve them in advance by using an online service called "MultiEcube Web".
By using this service, you can leave your suitcases and other large luggage at ease and enjoy sightseeing and transportation.
3. comfortable internet environment with free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is provided in Tokyo Station, allowing you to access the Internet anywhere.
This will be useful for checking the map and finding the next destination while on the move.
For international travelers in particular, easy Internet access allows them to quickly look up necessary information, allowing them to proceed with their trip with peace of mind.
A guide to the best places to go in the station! Great places to eat and rest!
Tokyo Station is a convenient location with many great spots to eat and rest. Whether you want to take a quick break during your trip or enjoy a solid meal, you will find a variety of options within the station. A wide range of stores, from restaurants to cafes, will accommodate both short breaks and solid meals.
We will now introduce some recommended places to eat and rest in Tokyo Station.
- bex coffee shop marunouchi south exit
Located near the Marunouchi South Exit of Tokyo Station, Beck's Coffee Shop Marunouchi South Exit is a convenient café that opens early in the morning; opening at 6:30 a.m., it is the perfect place to grab a quick bite before commuting or traveling.
It features aromatic coffee made from carefully selected beans from around the world to ensure that you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee.
Homemade paninis are also a popular menu item, perfect for relaxing while enjoying a light meal.
Located inside the station, the café is a favorite among many users as an easy stop during busy intervals.
- "THE STANDARD BAKERS TOKYO" (The Standard Bakers Tokyo)
This bakery pursues new bread possibilities from Tokyo Station.
About 50 to 60 kinds of breads are available, using mainly Hokkaido wheat and butter, as well as fresh seasonal ingredients.
The lineup is always appealing with a sense of seasonality.
More than half of the breads are original products newly developed for the store, and the variety is a distinctive feature.
Open from 7:00 a.m., it is the perfect place for breakfast on the way to work or a light meal before a trip.
Open until 22:00 Monday through Saturday and until 21:00 on Sundays and holidays (*until 22:00 if the following day is a holiday), the bakery is loved by a wide range of customers as an easy stop in during their busy daily lives.
- "EATALY MARUNOUCHI".
One of the largest restaurants in Tokyo Station where you can experience Italian food culture. 2007 founded in Turin, Italy.
Here you will find high quality Italian food products and the concept of eating, buying, and learning for all occasions.
Inside, visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in the restaurant, relax in the café, and shop for ingredients.
From ingredients to cuisine, this is a fascinating place to experience Italy's rich culinary culture.
The merchandise sales are open from 9:00 a.m., and the café/restaurant is open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., making it a convenient place to stop by between trips or after work.
- "Fruit Garden Rebel."
This popular fruit parlor offers parfaits and cakes lavishly made with fresh fruit. Even after its reopening, it is still loved by many people.
It is especially popular among women, and is a hot spot where there is often a line out the door.
We use the best seasonal fruits we can find at the market each morning, and offer the most delicious fruits of the day.
We want people to enjoy fruit on a daily basis, not as a special treat, so we have a full menu of light meals that can be easily eaten.
This is a great place to stop by during your trip or outing, as you can enjoy desserts made with fresh and carefully selected fruits in a relaxed atmosphere.
Open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., it is easy to visit from morning to night.
Comfortable travel at Tokyo Station!
Tokyo Station is very large, and for first-time visitors, transfers may seem a bit complicated, but knowing how to change trains in advance will make your trip smoother.
By checking the location of platforms and ticket gates on each line, not only will you be able to reach your destination without getting lost, but you will also know in advance where the elevators and escalators are located, which is useful if you are carrying luggage.
In addition, Tokyo Station is equipped with multilingual signs and information boards, creating a friendly environment for foreign visitors.
Even when you are in a hurry, these preparations will allow you to move with more time to spare.
We hope you will use the points we have introduced here to make your travel at Tokyo Station more comfortable.
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