The train is probably the best form of transportation in Japan. Traveling by train is fast, on time, and reasonably affordable here. However, if you intend to rely on trains to travel through Japan, there are a handful of tips you should follow to make sure it ends up being a great experience.
Invest in Japan Rail Pass
Buying a Japan Rail Pass is a great way to save money on traveling if you plan to visit more than one city in Japan. It is valid for six of the country’s biggest railway companies, and you won’t have to go through the hassle of buying tickets each time you want to hop on the train.
Try to Avoid Rush Hours
Trains in Japan can get crowded really fast during rush hours, considering that people in Japan are much more accustomed to using them than in most other countries in the world. If you have some leeway, try to avoid using trains from 7 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
Be on Time
One thing you can be certain of in Japan is that the trains will be there on time and they will leave the station when they need to. So make sure to be on time for your train trip, because even if you are a few minutes late, you will miss it.
Stock Up on Food and Drinks
You will be able to get food and drinks on a train, but you will have to pay a premium. Instead, stock up on food and drinks at convenience stores if your trip is going to last for a few hours. This will help you save money and have a bigger selection.
