Tokyo subway pass

The 72-hour Tokyo Subway Ticket is strong only for subway-heavy days.

The 72-hour ticket can be excellent value if you use Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway repeatedly across three consecutive days. It is weak if your routes rely on JR, private rail, buses, or walking.

Quick answer

Should you use this page before buying?

The 72-hour ticket can be excellent value if you use Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway repeatedly across three consecutive days. It is weak if your routes rely on JR, private rail, buses, or walking.

Decision table

3-day patternPass signalWhy
10+ covered subway ridesStrongLikely reaches break-even
Mixed JR and subwayMixedOnly subway rides count
Few long neighborhood daysWeakWalking and JR reduce value

The simple ride-count test

At a typical 220 yen subway fare, the 72-hour ticket needs about 10 covered rides to break even. More rides create savings; fewer rides favor IC card flexibility.

Good 72-hour itineraries

Shinjuku, Ginza, Asakusa, Ueno, Roppongi, Otemachi, Akasaka, and Tsukiji-style movement can work well when stations are on Tokyo Metro or Toei Subway.

When Suica or Pasmo wins

If your hotel is on JR Yamanote Line or your routes mix private rail and buses, an IC card may be easier and cheaper.

Use the calculator

Tokyo Subway Ticket Calculator

Use the live TripWorth calculator for your exact dates, route, rides, or attraction list. This page gives the decision framework; the calculator gives the personalized answer.

Check 72-hour break-even

Fare and source note

TripWorth pages use source-checked fare assumptions where possible, but rail and pass prices can change. Verify current official prices and purchase rules before buying any ticket or pass.

FAQ

How many rides for the 72-hour Tokyo Subway Ticket?

At a 220 yen average fare, about 10 covered subway rides.

Does it cover JR Yamanote Line?

No. JR rides do not count toward the Tokyo Subway Ticket value.

Can I use it over any three days?

It is a continuous 72-hour window from first use, not three separate days.