Tokyo is a city where tradition meets innovation, where ancient temples sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit streets hum with energy late into the night. With so much to see across its sprawling neighborhoods, travelers often wonder: What’s the best way to get around Tokyo? Whether you’re arriving by plane, traveling by high-speed train, exploring via subway or docking by cruise and joining a shore excursion, the journey becomes an essential part of the experience.
Travel to Tokyo by Plane
For most international visitors, one of the best ways to travel to Tokyo is by air. Narita and Haneda airports welcome millions of passengers each year and serve as gateways to Japan’s capital. From Narita, express trains and buses connect you to central Tokyo in about an hour, while Haneda, located closer to the city, gets you downtown in just 30 minutes. Flying remains the most practical choice for those traveling from overseas, ensuring that you can start your Tokyo adventure with ease.
Experience Tokyo by Cruise
For a truly memorable journey, one of the best ways to explore Tokyo is by cruise. Ships dock at ports such as Yokohama, less than an hour from central Tokyo, where shore excursions whisk you straight into the city’s highlights. Imagine stepping off your ship and joining a guided experience that takes you to the iconic Meiji Shrine, the neon brilliance of Shinjuku or the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market. Arriving by cruise combines convenience with curated discovery, offering a seamless way to connect transportation with adventure.
Navigate the City by Subway
Once in Tokyo, the subway system is widely considered the best way to get around Tokyo. With more than a dozen interconnected lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei, the network links every corner of the city — from the bustling Shinjuku district to the cultural heart of Asakusa. Signs and announcements are in English, as well as Japanese, making navigation surprisingly straightforward for first-time visitors. Trains run frequently and punctually, offering unmatched efficiency in a city known for its scale and density.
Travel by Train
Beyond the subway, Tokyo’s extensive above-ground train system offers another efficient option. JR East’s Yamanote Line circles the city center, stopping at major hubs like Shibuya, Harajuku and Ueno. High-speed shinkansen (bullet trains) departing from Tokyo Station connect the city with Kyoto, Osaka and beyond, making them one of the best ways to travel to Tokyo. The trains aren’t just transportation — they’re part of the cultural experience, blending comfort, speed and precision.
Explore Tokyo by Bus
Buses offer a more scenic, street-level view of Tokyo. While they may not be as fast as trains or subways, buses travel through neighborhoods that the rail lines don’t always reach. Riding above ground lets you see Tokyo’s bustling streets, traditional storefronts and modern architecture all in one journey. For visitors, sightseeing buses provide hop-on, hop-off flexibility, giving you the freedom to explore everything from the Imperial Palace gardens to Odaiba’s waterfront at your own pace.
Discover Tokyo on Foot
In many neighborhoods, the best way to explore Tokyo is simply on foot. Strolling through Shibuya lets you feel the pulse of the famous crossing, while a walk through Asakusa immerses you in centuries-old traditions at Senso-ji Temple. Meandering through Harajuku reveals quirky fashion boutiques, while peaceful gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen offer quiet escapes in the heart of the city. Walking brings unexpected discoveries — hidden shrines, cozy ramen shops or an alleyway filled with lantern-lit izakayas.
Rent a Bike
For a mix of speed and flexibility, biking is another great way to experience Tokyo. The city has embraced cycling in recent years, with rental bikes available through docking stations scattered across central neighborhoods. Cycling along the Sumida River or through parks like Yoyogi gives you a chance to see the city at a relaxed pace while covering more ground than walking alone.
What Is the Best Way To Explore Tokyo?
The best way to get around Tokyo depends on how you want to experience it. The subway and trains are unmatched for efficiency, buses give you a street-level view and walking brings the city’s details into focus. Biking adds flexibility, while flying is the simplest way to reach Tokyo from afar. Cruising into Tokyo with shore excursions offers an unforgettable way to discover the city’s many sides for those seeking an effortless blend of travel and immersion.