EN | USD

Deals

Support

Getting Around Nagoya, Japan

Globetrotter

26 Apr 2023 - 5 min read

Located between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya has a unique culture, including its cuisine. As one of Japan's major cities and industrial centers, Nagoya offers much to visitors.

With excellent transportation connections, it’s no surprise that Nagoya is one of the must-visit destinations in Japan.

Transportation Options in Nagoya

Nagoya is the capital of Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. This city is located between Tokyo and Osaka and is also known as Central Japan. As one of Japan's major cities, Nagoya has everything to offer visitors, from cultural attractions to modern destinations.

You can explore Nagoya's tourist spots by various means of transportation. Here are some transportation options that you can use while in Nagoya.

1. Nagoya Railway

Routes: This train operates from Nagoya Station to various regions. In-city Japan Rail will run on the main lines, namely Tokaido and Chuo. At Nagoya Station, you can transfer between trains and subways. For travel to Inuyama, Tokoname, and Aritmatsu, Meitetsu is the best choice, as it connects Aichi and Gifu. Besides Meitetsu, Kintetsu links Nagoya and Osaka, as well as other cities like Ise-Shima, Mie, and Kansai. Nagoya trains also connect to the airport.

Advantages: Buying tickets for this train is very easy; you can order online or offline at the station. Visit the Meitetsu website to order online.

Tips: Since many trains stop at Nagoya Station, it's easy for tourists like us to accidentally take the wrong one. Double-check the information displayed on the departure board before boarding. It's also recommended to reserve seats on express trains, which have designated seating areas for each carriage.

2. Nagoya Subway

Routes: In addition to the usual train lines, Nagoya also has five subway lines that will take you around Nagoya's tourist attractions. These train lines are the Higashuyama, Meijo-Meiko (right-left route), Tsurumai, Sakuradori, and Kamiida. Each train has a different color, which makes it easier for tourists. Yellow for Higashiyama, red for Sakuradori, purple for Meiko and Meiko, blue for Tsurumai, and pink for Kamiida.

Advantages: There are many transit stations on the Nagoya subway, making visiting various locations in this city easier. Apart from that, there is a one-day pass that you can enjoy for a full day of travel!

Fares: Train tickets range from ¥210 to ¥340 for adults. For children, half price is charged. A one-day pass ticket will cost ¥870, which applies to buses and subways. If you want to use the train only, you will be charged a price of ¥760. Weekend economy tickets (Donichi Eco Kippu tickets) will cost ¥620. With this ticket, you can ride unlimited buses and subways on weekends, national holidays, and every 8th which is environmental preservation day.

3. Taxi

General Information: Nagoya also has taxis that will take you to every corner of the city, near or far. Taxis can be a reliable option for destinations that are not easily accessible by public transportation. However, compared to other modes of transportation on this list, such as buses or trains, taking a taxi can be the most expensive option.

Advantages: Finding a taxi in Nagoya is quite easy because it is on every corner of the city. Apart from that, taxis can also help you get to some remote areas and make it easier for those of you who are going on vacation with some friends or family. Also note that the taxi doors can open and close automatically, so you don't have to do it yourself.

Disadvantages: Some taxi companies in Nagoya charge a higher fee of 20% for taxis operating between 10pm and 5am. Furthermore, many cab drivers might not speak English fluently.

Fares: Less than 1.2 km will cost you ¥480 for a normal-sized taxi (3-4 passengers), after 276 meters you will be charged ¥80.

4. Bus

General Information: Nagoya has many routes for buses. Usually, the bus will operate around the city, and you can ride it from the terminal near Nagoya or Sakae Station (terminal Oasis 21).

Advantages: Buses are a convenient mode of transportation for all types of tourists, including children, adults, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Buses offer convenience and access to locations that are not accessible by trains. The terminal is also strategically located near a train or subway station.

Fares: Ticket prices for adults are ¥210, while for children is ¥100

5. Meguru Tour Bus

Advantages: The Meguru tourist bus is one of the Nagoya transportation options that you can use. This bus line not only passes by popular tourist spots like the Toyota Museum, Nagoya Castle, and the Tokugawa Art Museum, but it also travels through Sakae and other exciting places in Nagoya.

Fares: For one trip, you will be charged a fee of ¥ 210 and if you want to enjoy a day of sightseeing, you can buy a one day pass at a price of ¥ 500.

Operational hours: The Nagoya Museum is closed on Mondays, so the bus will operate from Tuesday to Sunday. On weekdays, the bus will depart every half hour to once an hour. On weekends, it will operate every 20-30 minutes.

Tips: You can buy tickets from bus drivers or at bus stops at the Nagoya Bus Terminal.

Also read: Itinerary & Budget: 14D 13N in Japan

6. Bike

Advantages: Bicycles are the mainstay of transportation that can be used for sightseeing. There are many bicycle rental shops available across the city. Nagoya Main Street also has flat contours and is perfect for your cycling activities.

Rates: Bike rentals in Nagoya will cost ¥1,500 per day with an extension fee of ¥500 per day. The parking fee is ¥100 per day.

Tips: Ride in bicycle lanes and do not use the sidewalk when cycling, except for children under 13 years old, persons with disabilities, and parents over 70 years old. Ensure you obey traffic flow; if you violate it, you will be fined ¥20,000 or one month's imprisonment. Ride on the left side, and don't use the bike with one hand. To avoid having your bike towed away, be sure to park it in the designated area.

7. Walking

General Information: You can't miss the atmosphere of downtown Nagoya when you visit. You can see various aspects of Japanese culture from morning to night. Even tourist sites are very close to each other. From Nagoya Station, you can reach the Toyota Museum, Noritake Park, and Sakae within 15 to 30 minutes.

Advantages: This can be the cheapest option of all transportation in Nagoya.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes while exploring the city. When walking, it's important to pay attention to signs and stay within the designated pedestrian areas to ensure safety.

There are various ways to get around Nagoya comfortably and safely. You can choose it according to your needs. Ensure a comfortable vacation by booking flight tickets and hotels only on Traveloka!

Book Your Flights Here