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Transportation Troubles

• What do I do if I miss the last train in Japan?

  Take a taxi back to your hotel (expensive but reliable), find a 24-hour manga cafe or capsule hotel near the station to wait until the first train, or check for a night bus on your route.

• How do IC cards like Suica and Pasmo work for tourists?

  An IC card is a rechargeable tap-to-pay card that works on nearly all trains and buses nationwide, plus at convenience stores and vending machines. You can buy and charge one at any station ticket machine, or add one to your smartphone wallet.

• I got on the wrong train or missed my transfer — what now?

  Get off at the next station, find the station staff office (look for a window near the ticket gates), and show them your destination — most major stations have staff who can point you to the right platform, and many speak basic English or use translation tools.

• What's the best way to get from the airport to the city center?

  Airport express trains (like the Narita Express or Haruka) are the fastest and most predictable option; airport limousine buses are more comfortable with luggage and drop off closer to hotels; taxis are the most expensive but simplest for late-night arrivals or groups.