Transport in Japan
From the bullet train to Tokyo's amazing subway system, transport in Japan is a dream.
In terms of transport, Japan lives up to its reputation as a model of efficiency. Tokyo's subway system is probably the best and most extensive in the world, overground trains run on time to the millisecond, the bullet train can reach speeds of up to 320 kph (200 mph) - and as if that wasn't enough, a Maglev track to run between Tokyo and Nagoya at speeds of up to 500 kph (about 300 mph) has just been given the go-ahead. In case you were wondering, that'll make it the fastest train in the world by a country mile.
Besides trains, Japan boasts an excellent network of local buses, affordable and comfortable highway buses, cable cars, funicular railways, ferries, taxis, helicopters and hire cars - in fact, you can even catch a pirate ship across Lake Ashi!
Transport is one of the aspects of travel in Japan that our customers tend to worry most about. How will you know which train to catch, and from which platform? What happens if your ferry is cancelled? Thankfully, there's no need to worry. Each of our customers receives a personalised Info-Pack tailored just for them, with exact train times, platforms, maps and directions so that getting from A to B couldn't be simpler.
And if your plans should go awry? Our Japan office is staffed with English speakers who are available around the clock to make sure that you never need to panic.
The Shinkansen bullet train
Travelling in comfort at speeds of up to 320 km/h; train travel doesn't get better than this!
Taxis
Like hailing a yellow cab in NYC or hanging on for dear life in the back of a Thai tuk tuk, taking a taxi in Japan is a memorable travel experience.
Driving in Japan
Getting out on the open road is a great way to explore Japan, especially the more rural parts of the country where trains are less convenient.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Enjoy stunning vistas while traversing the Japanese Alps via a series of trains, cable cars, trolley buses, ropeways, tunnels and hiking routes.
Hozugawa boat ride
Take a trip down the Hozu River in Kyoto's stunning Arashiyama district.
Arashiyama rickshaw
There is no better way to see Kyoto's Arashiyama district than from the seat of a jinrikusha rickshaw.
Mount Aso helicopter ride
If James Bond can fly over the volcanic peaks of Kyushu in a helicopter, why shouldn't you?
Steam locomotives
First introduced into Japan in 1872, it's hard to visualise how steam trains eventually transmorphed over time into the bullet train.
Ishigaki Segway tour
An unconventional way to take in the beautiful scenery of this sub tropical island.
Lake Ashi pirate ship
Many dream of seeing the snow capped peak of Mt Fuji. However, most don't expect this magical moment to be aboard a replica pirate ship!
Kyushu Seven Stars
Move over Orient Express - this luxury sleepr train combines beautiful, wood-clad carriages, luxurious cabins and French-Japanese fusion cuisine.
Wheelchair access on the bullet train
One of the joys of holidaying in Japan is travelling on the world famous bullet train - and the good news is that it's accessible for all.