Just think about it for a moment - there are close to 120 urban and suburban train lines in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area! That includes 13 lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway (collectively known as Tokyo Subway), 23 lines run by JR East, and over 80 additional lines operated by smaller private companies.

Looking at the full map can easily make you feel dizzy, which is why it’s not practical to include every line on one single map. Someone on Reddit did though - you be the judge!

Tokyo Subway has its own map, separate from JR East’s, but that’s not the whole story. What’s even more fascinating is that many private lines share tracks and run trains through Tokyo Subway tunnels. Some stop to pick up passengers, while others pass through without stopping. For example, the Tokyo Metro F Line terminates at Shibuya Station, but instead of turning back, the same train continues as the Toyoko Line, traveling another 30 minutes to Yokohama Station. I can see that this setup is incredibly convenient for passengers, reducing the need to transfer and saving both time and stress.

Despite its complex network, Tokyo’s urban and suburban train system is surprisingly easy to navigate - even for those who don’t speak Japanese. Most maps, station exits, and line connections are labeled in English, and train lines are colour-coded, with large directional stickers on station floors to guide passengers. In preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, all stations were assigned both a colour and a number. For example, stations on the Z Line are labeled Z01, Z02, Z03, and so on.

During off-peak hours, Tokyo’s subway system offers a clean, quiet, and well-organized travel experience. When a train departs, a white-gloved staff member marks the moment with a precise and graceful hand gesture - part safety protocol, part old ritual - which adds to the charm of riding trains in Japan.

Accessibility and safety are top priorities in Tokyo’s subway system. Tactile paths for the visually impaired and designated seating for seniors and people with disabilities are standard features throughout the train network. All stations are equipped with platform screen doors to prevent falls onto the tracks. It’s very sad that most new metro systems being built in North America still miss this feature - perhaps as a cost-cutting measure - but protecting lives should always come first. The only downside? It’s harder to snap a good train photo. Suck it up, train buffs!

Another impressive convenience is that Google Maps and several Japanese transit apps show you exactly which platform and train car to board so you’re closest to your exit or transfer point.

Despite Tokyo’s advanced rail infrastructure, a few level crossings still exist, even on busy multi-track corridors. During peak hours, gates at these crossings can remain closed for over an hour, effectively halting road traffic. There is a good reason for it: while rare, accidents do happen; one major incident involved a truck carrying lemons and oranges getting stuck on the tracks near Yokohama, resulting in one death and 75 injuries. To improve safety, Tokyo’s rail companies are increasingly using AI-powered systems that monitor crossings in real time, detecting stranded individuals, unusual behaviour, or obstacles on the tracks.

Most subway stations in Tokyo are designed with simplicity and utilitarianism in mind, with only a few showcasing public art or unique features. If you're looking for artistic touches, the Ginza Line - Asia’s oldest subway line - is your best bet. Although it’s been in operation for nearly a century, the trains are modern replicas of the original 1920s models. Really cool! 

One iconic spot you don’t want to miss is Shibuya Station, famously featured in the 2009 film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, where a loyal dog waited daily for his late owner.

Trains and stations are exceptionally clean, as is typical across Japan, but don’t expect to find garbage bins. They’re virtually nonexistent! My wife and I once made the mistake of bringing an empty coffee cup onto the subway, assuming we could toss it at the next station. Two hours later, I was still carrying it until I finally found a washroom with a garbage bin.

Oh wow - these seats are soft and velvety! They’re honestly the most comfortable train seats I’ve ever seen anywhere in the world - I could ride like this for hours.

Some trains also offer incredible views of the city. My personal favourite is the Yurikamome Line, with its futuristic, driverless trains running on rubber tires. If you stand at the front while crossing the Rainbow Bridge, you’ll experience a dramatic 270-degree loop with breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay!

Even late in the evening - around 8 or 9 PM - trains are still busy, yet incredibly quiet. You could whisper and still be heard! People in Japan rarely talk on the train, and taking phone calls or playing music without headphones is a big no-no. Train etiquette is taken seriously: passengers line up at marked spots on the platform, and no one boards until everyone has exited.

You’ll also notice that people don’t put bags on empty seats or wear backpacks on their backs. I’ve never seen anyone put their feet on a seat - and even little kids take off their shoes before climbing up.

All trains in Tokyo are air-conditioned, although most station platforms and hallways are not. Some train cars are cooler than others, and signs indicate which ones offer warmer or colder temperatures.

Most Tokyo trains designate the first and last cars as women-only during morning hours until 9:30 a.m., a policy introduced after thousands of women experienced sexual harassment on overcrowded trains.

Now, let’s talk about fares. Tokyo uses a pay-by-distance system, with a typical one-way trip costing around ¥180-220 (USD $1.20–$1.50), which is quite affordable considering the quality of service. With so many companies operating different lines, buying individual tickets for transfers would be a nightmare, so nearly everyone - local commuters and visitors alike - uses a smart card called the IC Card. It works not only across Tokyo’s transit systems but also throughout Japan, and can be used for purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, taxis, and even some tourist attractions. The card is branded differently depending on the region, but functions the same way.

So the big question - should you ride the subway while in Tokyo? Absolutely! Tokyo’s train system is more than just a way to get around, it’s a reflection of the city’s precision, technology, and culture. It’s also a fast and scenic way to explore Tokyo, whether you're a first-time visitor or have been there many times before.