Tokyo Metro announced on March 4, 2025, the launch of its new ride service allowing passengers to access trains using credit card touch payments and QR codes starting on March 22, 2025. This innovative system is expected to simplify travel for commuters and tourists alike.
The service will kick off with the introduction of the "Tokyo Metro 24-hour Ticket," priced at 700 yen for adults. This ticket permits unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro lines for 24 hours from the time of its first use. Passengers can purchase pre-sale tickets on the dedicated Tokyo Metro website, offering the convenience of holding up either their card or smartphone screen at the entrance for entry.
To utilize the service, riders need to acquire the Tokyo Metro 24-hour Ticket via the official sales site, using either credit, debit, or prepaid cards compatible with touch payment technology, or by generating and scanning the QR code issued after purchase. At stations equipped with automatic ticket gates, users simply hold their card or QR code over the reader to pass through.
For stations where ticket readers are not available, staff will be on hand to assist and confirm ticket displays on the passenger’s device. Notably, the Tokyo Metro stations located at Naka-Meguro, Shibuya (Fukutoshin Line/Hanzomon Line), and Meguro will not have touch payment readers integrated initially, so commuters should be cautious.
Tickets remain valid for any day within 90 days from the purchase date and are effective for 24 hours following initial entry. For people buying their tickets with credit cards not compatible with touch payments, transitioning to QR code usage is necessary. The fare remains consistent, with adults paying 700 yen and child tickets priced at 350 yen, with child tickets available solely as QR codes.
Tokyo Metro also made it clear about the travel protocols for passengers transferring to or from other railway lines. Riders must exit at the connecting station when using tickets for other lines, and similarly need to exit when traveling from other railways onto the Tokyo Metro. This ensures all fare structures are appropriately adhered to.
Looking forward, Tokyo Metro is committed to enhancing its services through digital technology, primarily focusing on transportation IC cards. The company has expressed its intentions to explore additional improvements to streamline ride services.
Part of these future plans includes examining solutions surrounding fare calculation challenges unique to the company. Specifically, they are investigating adjustments for passengers transferring between different networks, particularly ones involving postpaid ride services through credit card touch payments.
This strategic move underlines Tokyo Metro’s emphasis on adapting to modern digital trends, catering to the need for more convenient and efficient public transportation services. This far-reaching upgrade not only aims to improve user experience but also demonstrates Tokyo Metro's response to the changing dynamics of public transport shopping and ticket purchasing.