What to do if you miss the last train in Tokyo?

Though Tokyo is famous as one of the busiest, and the most glamorous cities in the world, its public transport system shuts down so early compared to other big cities in the world.

The train services in Tokyo mostly are done by 12:30 am and buses end the services even earlier, usually around 9 pm or 10 pm.

Having a night out in Tokyo means that you must be ready for any of these three consequences:

(1) go home on or before the last train,

(2) take a cab later when you want to go back to your accommodation, and this is usually the most expensive choice, or

(3) stay out until the first trains start running again the next morning, usually around 5 am.

If you decided to go with no.3, you’ll need this handy guide so you will know what type of late-night options you have in Tokyo!

Find a karaoke

 Late-night karaoke is the first thing Japanese people would search for when they miss the last train in Tokyo. Major karaoke chains li

ke Utahiroba and Manekineko open 24 hours, and Karaoke-kan, Karaoke no Tetsujin, and SHIDAX open until 5 or 6 am.

Expect to pay at least 2,500 yen for a free time course (with unlimited soft drinks), and if you order alcoholic beverages and food, expect to pay up to 6,000 yen.

Manga or Internet Cafes

If you’re looking for a private and compact place to crash for a few hours, but don’t want to spend too much money, you might want to stop by a manga or internet café.

Can be easily found in major city neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro,
you can crash yourself inside a booth, usually equipped with a computer, DVD player, manga, reclining chair, and unlimited amount of soft drinks.

The rates for manga and internet café differ depending on their locations, but expect to pay at least 2,000 yen for a few hours stay.

Capsule hotels

Way more expensive than a manga café, but definitely cheaper than a regular hotel, capsule hotels are everyone’s lifesavers, especially those who miss their last trains home.

Capsule hotels are options for you if you’re looking for a proper place to sleep for few hours, and a nice, refreshing shower.

Capsule hotels can be found at major city neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro,
and expect to pay between 3,000 yen to 6,000 yen per night when staying at a capsule hotel.

Public baths

Missed the last train? How about visiting a public bath for a late-night rest and relaxation?

Even though not all public baths are open 24 hours,

some public baths like Thermae-yu and some other chain public baths offer not just natural hot springs,
but also relaxation spaces where you can sit or nap.

Things to keep in mind when using public baths in Japan is not all of them accept visitors with tattoos,

so make sure to check the rules before entering the facility!