How To Ride The Streetcar In Japan
Trams (streetcars), known as romendensha in Japanese, were ubiquitous in Japan's major towns and cities.
We have compiled a list of things you should know in advance when using public transportation in Japan, specifically “How to Ride The Streetcar in Japan”.
Please cooperate by lining up to board at station platforms and bus stops.
Please refrain from loud conversations or phone calls on trains or buses.
All buses have priority seats. Please offer your seat to the elderly, people with disabilities, people with infants, etc.
Transportation systems in Japan operate on a regular schedule. Do not miss your train and do not do anything that will interfere with its departure.
People cooperate by lining up to board at station platforms and bus stops.
Check the guiding sign on the platform. Check the destination indicated on the platform. You can identify the destination of a streetcar by the route number and the sign located in front of the streetcar.
BOARDING THE TRAM - Please get on the back door. The front door is for exiting only.
DURING THE RIDE - Once on board, please take a boarding ticket. This ticket has a number on it which will appear on the electric board at the front of the streetcar with the fee written under it.
Take note of your destination. Station names are announced in both Japanese and English.
Make sure of the fare destination to buy your tickets.
PREPARING TO EXIT - When your stop is approaching, press the buzzer near the window to signal the driver.
Tickets are not sold. Pay as you get off the streetcar. If you find yourself short of change, use the change machine attached to the fare box.
EXITING AND PAYING - When getting off, please put your fare and ticket into the fare box. Drop the exact fare in the fare box near the front door because no change will be given after payment is made. Use the money changer near the fare box, if necessary, before you pay. No change can be made for bills over 1000 yen.
FOR PAYMENTS , YOU HAVE SEVERAL OPTIONS:
Cash: Pay the exact fare in the box next to the driver. There's a change machine for large bills and coins.
IC Cards: Use PASPY (the local IC card) or other compatible cards like ICOCA by tapping on the reader as you exit.
Day Passes: Show your pass to the driver as you exit. Remember to scratch off the date on your pass before first use. As long as its within the the flat-rate areas, you can ride the streetcar as many times as you want in one day.
Please refrain from talking on mobile phone and speak loudly during your ride.
TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR JAPAN STREETCAR EXPERIENCE
To ensure you have the best experience using Hiroshima's trams, consider these helpful tips:
Plan your route: Use the to free maps to plan your journey. The network covers most major attractions in the city your are visiting.
Travel off-peak: Trams can get crowded during rush hours. If possible, plan your sightseeing during off-peak times.
Try different trams: Each tram has its own character. Try riding different models for a unique experience.
Use a day pass: If you plan to use the trams frequently, a day pass can save you money and the hassle of paying for each ride.
Be respectful: Remember that while these are tourist attractions, they're also vital public transport for locals. Be considerate, especially during busy times.