Using the JR Pass on the Tokyo Metro

Hi Francine,

The Japan Rail Pass can't be used on Subways. It can be used on JR operated lines such as the Yamanote line in Tokyo. the Yamanote line is pretty handy for getting around the city, but the metro system will let you get around a little bit easier, and if you wait to activate your Japan Rail Pass until you leave Tokyo, is pretty good value for money.

Tokyo metro has a pretty excellent website in English where you can get a bit more info on lines, prices and things.

M

This is pretty clearly noted on the official Rail Pass site but it is only valid on JR trains and JR buses running local lines. You can use it in Tokyo for the Yamanote Line and in Osaka for the Loop Line, but if you are going all over and need to take a subway for several days, there is a 3 day subway pass that can save you a lot.

You could spend a lot of time in Tokyo and still not see everything.
In Tokyo a few of the best places to see are the Tsukiji Fish Market, plus the site that every last tourist goes to see, the Sensoji Temple. If you are in Tokyo on a Sunday afternoon, be sure to go visit Harajuku to see the youth with their wild fashions. Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park are next to it and well worth seeing also. And be sure not to miss the Shibuya Hachiko intersection especially on a weekend when it looks like half the city is crossing the street at once.