Japanese transportation apps to download
Nov 05, 2024
Japanese transportation apps to download
Travelling in Japan can be challenging if you’re not used to public transportation and don’t understand Japanese at all, and one of the best ways to save yourself is by downloading Japanese transportation apps onto your phone before you depart to Japan.
This feature introduces some of the best transportation apps that are available in English and helps you explore Japan by providing you with the correct routes, so make sure to download them before you fly to Japan!
Index
1. Hyperdia
Regarding Japan travel apps, Hyperdia is at the top of any list. The application was initially developed for commuters and tourists in Japan. It is available in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Hyperdia provides the best route and allows you to see the train’s departure and arrival times accurately.
If you have an Apple phone, you can download Hyperdia by Voice, a Hyperdia app that’s built with a Siri-like function. You can say something like “Shinjuku Station to Ueno Station, last train”, and the app will search for the correct route for you. The Android version doesn’t have the Siri-like feature, but it has additional features like providing walking times, and car rental rates. and suggestions for hotels. The downside of this app is that it is not free.
2. Google Maps
Unlike when travelling in other countries, you will be walking a lot during your travels here in Japan. Google Maps will help you find places you would like to go. You can use it for navigation as well.
With Google Maps you can find anything you’re looking for, you can drop pins on places you’d like to visit, and you can plan your trip by creating a list of places beforehand.
The downside of this app is that you need data to navigate yourself with a precise GPS location or to access the offline map.
3. Japan Transit by Jorudan
Jorudan is a website that gives you routes for trains, and Japan Transit is another transit app in Japan that is loved by the locals who live here. The app is available in English. You can use this app to find the best route you can take to reach your destination.
The app allows you to filter out routes that aren’t covered by the JR Pass, pick reserve seats, find out the cost for each option, and see the amount of time each route takes. This app also provides you with flight information as well.
4. Japan Taxi
Ordering a taxi in Japan can be challenging if you don’t understand Japanese, but you can easily order a taxi, or schedule a taxi ride with the Japan Taxi app. The app can be used in all 47 prefectures, and you can use the map to choose precise pick-up and drop-off locations by dropping location pins.
Once you download the app, enter the required information, including your name and email address, and also register your credit card or debit card to pay online so you can enjoy a cashless ride experience.
5. Japan Travel by Navitime
Japan Travel by Navitime is a comprehensive travel app that has everything you need to know about Japan, including how to navigate yourself from point A to point B, and also built-in guides for events, shopping, nature, nightlife, art & culture, and food & drink.
The app has an offline search function for free Wi-Fi spots, and also itineraries and coupons that will make your trip more memorable.