In 2016, the number of visitors from the Philippines exceeded 300,000 for the first time, reaching a record of 347,800 (an increase of 29.6% compared to the previous year), indicating an active market for travel to Japan.
There are many fascinating Tokyo Metro stations including Ginza, Omotesando, Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ikebukuro.
The objective is to convey the fact that reasonably-priced, comfortable and safe travel throughout Tokyo is possible by using (1) the Tokyo Subway Ticket, an unlimited ride ticket, to visit its many interesting stations, (2) the free Wi-fi available at all stations, (3) “Welcome Board” from which convenient subway-related information can be acquired at major stations, and (4) the ticket information offices at which any questions can be asked.
The main services that Tokyo Metro offers to visitors to Japan are as follows.
(1) Tokyo Subway Ticket
The Tokyo Subway Ticket allows for unlimited travel on all 13 lines of the Tokyo Metro and Metropolitan Subway.
It comes in three types: valid for 24 hours (800 yen/ P354), for 48 hours (1,200 yen/ P531) and for 72 hours (1,500 yen/ P664). These tickets can be purchased at locations including Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Metro ticket information offices and some Big Camera stores.
*As these tickets are for travelers, a non-Japanese passport must be shown when purchasing one here
Travel that would normally cost 1,190 yen (around P526) is 390 (around P172) yen cheaper with a 24-hour ticket!
(2) Free Wi-fi
Free Wi-fi can be used at all stations on the Tokyo Metro.
Tokyo Metro stations are convenient for looking things up during travel or uploading memorable photographs to social media. Preparations are also underway to make it possible to use free Wi-fi within subway cars.
(3) Welcome Board
Welcome Boards have been installed at 14 stations that are used by a large number of foreign guests. These boards show information related to subway tickets, route guides for major tourist spots and route maps containing tourist spots. You can see how to get to your destination station as well as how much it will cost and how long it will take in a glance.
(4) Ticket Information Offices
Ticket information offices have been installed at Ueno, Ginza, Shinjuku, Omotesando and Shibuya stations. At these offices, you can ask any questions that you have; for example, how to use the Tokyo Metro and areas around the station.
Tokyo Metro operates nine subway lines running over a total of 195.1 km mainly throughout metropolitan Tokyo. For seven of these lines, joint extension operations are implemented with other companies. When the joint extension operation destinations are included, this network covers a total of 532.6 km. The company is therefore responsible for a metropolitan railway network that is used by 7.07 million people per day (as of 2015). As a public transport body supporting the urban functions of Japan’s capital Tokyo, it is both a Guide for Tokyo and a Linker for Transport Networks in Tokyo. Tokyo Metro not only safely and reliably transports guests to their destination, but also actively engages in related businesses to support the daily needs of its guests.
Tokyo Metro proactively engages in a variety of initiatives with medium- to long-term viewpoints keeping the group principle of the “Power to Drive Tokyo” in mind.
TOKYO SIGHTSEEING SPOTS
COOL TOKYO
Check out and visit spots that everyone is talking about, where you'll find the latest fashion and popular items.
Isetan Shinjuku (Shopping)
Reopened in 2013 under the theme of "world-class fashion museum." In 2015, two more floors of interior goods (5th) and babies and kids (6th) were remodeled, offering more to see.
Access – Shinjuku-sanchome
Tokyo Metropolitan Main Building No. 1 (Sightseeing)
Located at a height of 202m above ground level, the North and South observation desks which are free of charge, are popular spots. View the TOKYO SKYTREE and Mount Fuji, and at night, enjoy Tokyo's night skyline.
Access – Nishi-shinjuku
Omote Sando (Takeshita Street)
This is an area attracting the world's attention as the source of latest fashion lead by young people. In recent years, shops for overseas tourists have also been popping up.
Access – Omote-sando
Shibuya Hikarie (Shopping)
A new place of interest with direct access from Shibuya station. A variety of stores can be found, from "ShinQs" which offers fashion accessories to restaurants where food from all over the world, as well as long-established food shops offereing their traditional wares, can be enjoyed.
Access – Shibuya
NIGHT LIFE
Art, night view, music etc. the other side of Tokyo where you can enjoy the "Night"
Tokyo Tower (Sightseeing)
This transmission tower stands 333m tall. The Main Observatory and Special Observatory command a panoramic view of the city of Tokyo. As well as the view of the night skyline, the beautifully lit exterior of the tower itself is also a popular sight. 9:00-23:00 / Open 365 days
Access – Kamiyacho | Akabanebashi
The National Art Center, Tokyo (Culture)
Instead of maintaining a permanent collection , this museum uses its exhibition space, one of the largest in Japan, to hold various art exhibitions and is attracting public attention. Museum hours are extended to 20:00 every Friday when an exhibition is being held. 10:00-18:00 (Friday during exhibitions: until 20:00) / Closed on Tuesday
Access – Nogizaka
Tokyo Midtown (Sightseeing)
Full of shops offering a comfortable lifestyle. You'll also find places with live, high-quality music as well as restaurants and cafés. Vary by shop / no schedule
Access – Roppongi
Roppongi Hills (Sightseeing)
This multi-complex features a movie theater, museum, restaurants and more. With the completion of reopening after remodeling, they now offer an even greater collection of luxury brand boutiques and shops carrying a selection of various brands. 11:00-21:00 *Restaurants: until 23:00 / open 365 days
Access – Roppongi
Metropolitan Luxury
If you want to enjoy a touch of luxury, head out to the world-leading area of brand-name shops
The Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Culture)
An abundant green area , the Imperial Palace is a place where you can relax and unwind. In addition to the tourist spot Nijubashi Bridge (which means the "Double Bridge"), you can enjoy viewing historical buildings that have been designated as nationally important cultural properties as well as the rich colors of the four seasons.
Access – Otemachi
Marunouchi (Shopping)
Latest landmarks are popping up in the Marunouchi area, including "KITTE" located in front of Tokyo Station. Along the street, you'll find very unique luxury brand shops and restaurants as well.
Access – Tokyo
Ginza (Shopping)
This is a world-leading shopping district where shops of both long-established and cutting-edge brands line the streets. Also, in addtion to high-class restaurants, you can also enjoy art at the numerous galleries.
Access – Ginza
Shiodome (Sightseeing)
In the multitude of high-rise buildings in Shiodome, you'll find numerous restaurants that offer sweeping views of areas such as Odaiba. Find cuisine from all around the world and enjoy a good time in exquisite elegance.
Access – Shiodome
CULTURAL FUSION
From pop culture to new places of interest, take a tour around Tokyo's popular sightseeing spots
Tsukiji Market (Japapnese Food)
One of the world's largest markets that's crowded from before the break of dawn. You'll have fun just walking around the Outer Market that's full of life. Delicious seafood cuisine made from freshly caught fish and shellfish is not to be missed! Vary by shop / Closed on Holidays and Sunday
Access – Tsukiji
Akihabara (Shopping)
"Akiba" is the sanctuary of electric home appliances, the pride of Japan, and of pop culture. Here you'll find largely discounted home appliances as well as rare anime items and manga.
Access – Akihabara
Ueno (Shopping)
In addition to Ameyoko, where shops selling food, clothing, and accessories are lined up, you'll find numerous leisure spots in Ueno including Ueno Park, know as the "forest of art" and the oldest zoo in Japan.
Access – Ueno
Asakusa (Sightseeing)
A popular sightseeing area with many of Tokyo's new and old tourist spots including Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate where there's a friendly atmosphere of an old town. An approximate walk of 20 minutes will take you to the new landmar, TOKYO SKYTREE.
Access – Asakusa
Visit the Tokyo Metro Global Site for useful, detailed information on sightseeing in Tokyo. Check out their site here or download Tokyo Metro Guide Map here
