| Unless you're in a real rush, you will never require a taxi in Tokyo; subways and trains have the city and its suburbs covered. When passing through a ticket gate, wave the card over the reader. And make use of the information booths in many stations, where you can get free maps of the nearby towns and villages, and the staff often speak some English. English signage is good, and stops are usually announced in both languages. The applicable fare will be automatically deducted at your destination. The latest is the Keisei Skyliner, which, for just $15, will take you between Ueno station and Narita International Airport in only 41 minutes. Their stations (and exits) may be blocks apart, even though they have the same name. This will save you from fiddling with tickets and transfers, and having to figure out your fare ahead of time. There are several rail options for getting to the airport. In addition, the Yamanote and Chuo-Sobu lines, above-ground commuter lines owned by JR East, act as key transportation arteries in central Tokyo. A subway map (all Tokyo guidebooks have them) is a must. The only trick is distinguishing between the two, closely integrated networks: Toei and Tokyo Metro. Good on all subways, trains, and buses, you can even use it for buying snacks and drinks from vending machines inside the stations. But first off, get yourself a PASMO rechargeable card, sold in stations at automated machines. If you're staying in Asakusa, the Narita Sky Access line will get you to the airport in 68 minutes (due to extra stops)for the same price. |
Sunday 11 March 2012
Mass transit has city covered
