Japan · 10 min read
Using trains in Japan: IC cards, tickets and luggage
A practical guide to IC cards, Shinkansen tickets, seat reservations, station changes and luggage rules in Japan.
Editorial image: Trekky. Imagen editorial original de Trekky.
Quick answer
In Japan, begin by asking which service you are taking: an IC card handles many urban journeys, while a limited express or Shinkansen may need a separate ticket and reservation. Use the same medium to enter and exit, check the operator and measure your suitcase before booking. Do not buy a JR Pass without comparing it against your actual itinerary.
Three questions before touching the gate
Is it compatible urban transport?
Use IC stored value when the operator and journey accept it. Keep the same card or device until you exit.
Is it express or long distance?
Check whether you need base fare, a supplement, a seat or a combination. Follow the operator’s guidance.
Are you carrying large luggage?
Measure the total dimensions. On affected JR Central services, exceeding 160 cm requires the specified reservation.
Real example · Ginza Line G08, G09 and G10
How to read Tokyo Metro: line, number and direction
The letter G identifies the Ginza Line and the number locates each station. From Ginza G09, numbers fall towards Shibuya G01 and rise towards Asakusa G19.
View text explanation
- Shimbashi G08, Ginza G09 and Kyobashi G10 are three consecutive stations on the Ginza Line.
- When numbers decrease from G09, the train moves towards the Shibuya G01 terminus. When they increase, it moves towards Asakusa G19.
- Ginza G09 interchanges with Marunouchi M16 and Hibiya H09. Shimbashi connects with JR, Toei Asakusa and Yurikamome.
- Look first for the line letter, then the station number and finally the terminus shown on the sign.
Trekky editorial diagram, version 1. Reviewed on 2026-07-27 by Trekky Editorial.
The gate is not a test: keep the journey traceable
A failure is often about balance, a different medium, a pending ticket or coverage. Do not push through or tail another passenger. Move luggage aside, read the message and ask staff for help with the origin and entry medium.
My rule is simple: one person, one entry medium and its matching exit. Save the train, car, seat and reservation capture in Trekky, not only the destination.
IC, individual tickets or a pass
IC card
Useful for compatible everyday payments; it stores value rather than unlimited days. A common mistake is touching out with a different medium or assuming universal coverage.
Individual tickets
They provide control when there are few long journeys or you need a specific seat. Check changes and collection.
Rail pass
Compare price, area, excluded trains and flexibility. “I travel a lot” is not enough to prove value.
Sources and review
Written and reviewed by Manuel. Founder of Trekky and traveller across 36 countries. Last reviewed: 1 September 2026.
Each guide separates official facts from editorial recommendations, links its sources and displays its latest review date.
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