Tokyo: 10 New Things to Know Before Visiting

Ready to explore Tokyo? The city is transforming with exciting innovations that will change how you explore, pay, and play.

From seamless airport arrivals to cutting-edge art experiences, Tokyo is pushing boundaries in every way.

These fresh changes will make your journey through Japan’s capital more enjoyable than ever. 😊

1. Digital Suica Card Upgrades

a. The New Welcome Suica Mobile App

Welcome Suica App Launch: Get your digital Suica ready before arriving in Tokyo with the new app launching Spring 2025 – no more airport queues for you!
No Deposit Fee: Unlike physical Suica cards, the mobile version doesn’t require a ¥500 deposit, saving you money.
English Interface: You’ll find the app fully available in English, making it super easy to use.
Extended Validity: Your digital Welcome Suica stays valid for 180 days, way longer than the physical card’s 28-day limit.
Bullet Train Booking: You can reserve unreserved seats on Tohoku, Hokuriku, and other select bullet trains right from your phone.

b. How to Get Started

App Download: Get the Welcome Suica Mobile app from Spring 2025 – it works with your iPhone and Apple Watch. Android users will need to wait for future updates.
Payment Setup: Connect your MasterCard, American Express, or Apple Card to your Apple Wallet to add funds (Visa isn’t supported yet).
Digital Only: Keep everything on your phone – no physical card needed!
Travel Features: Get real-time train updates and tourist info right on your app.

c. Where Can You Use It

Public Transport: Tap and ride trains and buses across Tokyo and major cities.
Convenience Stores: Pay easily at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and other stores.
Vending Machines: Buy drinks and snacks without carrying coins.
Lockers and Restaurants: Use your digital Suica at station lockers and many restaurants.
Nationwide Use: Your digital Suica works across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido.

d. Future Upgrades

QR Code Feature: Soon you’ll be able to pay using QR codes when shopping.
Contactless Gates: JR East is developing gates that let you walk through without tapping – making your journey even smoother.

2. JR East Fare Hike

a. What’s Changing and When

Implementation Date: Train fares will increase from March 2026 – marking the first major change since JR East’s privatization in 1987.
Overall Increase: Expect an average 7.1% rise across standard tickets, commuter passes, and student passes.
Affected Routes: Changes apply to all JR East lines, including the Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, and regional routes.
Base Fare Change: The starting fare on the Yamanote Line will increase from ¥150 to ¥160.
Pass Adjustments: Regular commuter passes will cost 12% more, while student passes will see a 4.9% increase.

b. Why Are Fares Increasing

Infrastructure Updates: JR East needs funds to repair and replace aging tracks, trains, and stations for passenger safety.
Safety Measures: Stations and routes will be strengthened against earthquakes and typhoons for better disaster preparedness.
Station Improvements: Plans include making stations more wheelchair-friendly and introducing new trains.
Workforce Changes: The increase helps cover rising wages and addresses Japan’s growing labor shortage issues.

c. How Will This Affect Your Travel Plans

Budget Planning: Plan to set aside 5-10% more for JR East train travels from March 2026.
IC Card Benefits: Using Suica or Pasmo cards will remain convenient with unified, easy-to-understand fares.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Travel

3. Harajuku Quest Opens

a. What is Harajuku Quest

Opening Timeline: Harajuku Quest is set to open its doors in spring 2025.
Location Features: This new two-building complex bridges Omotesando and Ura-Harajuku’s backstreets, creating the first direct connection between these areas.
Diverse Offerings: The complex combines retail stores, restaurants, and cultural venues, bringing together international fashion brands and local creative talent.
Distinctive Design: Features a striking transparent façade and cascading terraces that create an eye-catching architectural statement.
Area Development: Part of NTT’s broader initiative to revitalize the district and improve pedestrian flow between neighborhoods.

b. Design and Architecture

Modern Exterior Design of Harajuku Quest — Photo Credit: OMA

Building Layout: Spans six floors above ground, includes two basement levels, and features a distinctive rooftop tower.
Outdoor Spaces: Each upper floor incorporates terraces offering open-air areas with neighborhood views.
Visual Appeal: The modern transparent exterior creates different visual perspectives as you move around the building.

c. What Can You Do at Harajuku Quest

Shopping Experience: Browse through flagship stores and boutiques featuring both established brands and creative collaborations with local artists.
Dining Options: Choose from various eateries ranging from casual cafés to fine dining establishments, including rooftop dining with city views.
Observation Deck: Take in panoramic views of Meiji Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and Omotesando Avenue from the rooftop area.

Read More: 10 New Things to Do in Tokyo

4. Dual Pricing Discussions

a. Understanding Dual Pricing

What It Is: Dual pricing means different rates for locals and tourists at the same location.
Where You’ll See It: This practice is appearing at cultural sites, transport services, and some restaurants, with Himeji Castle considering tourist-specific entry fees.
Why Consider It: Helps manage overcrowding and keeps attractions accessible for local residents.
Is It Fair?: While some visitors question the fairness, others see it as supporting local communities and preserving cultural heritage.
Transparency Matters: Always look for clearly displayed prices or ask staff directly to avoid unexpected costs.

b. Dual Pricing in Restaurants and Shopping

Restaurant Practices: Some establishments, like Tamatebako in Shibuya, implement higher buffet prices for tourists.
Shopping Considerations: Tourist areas like Asakusa may have souvenir shops charging premium prices for visitors.
Market Pricing: While local markets typically maintain fixed prices, it’s worth comparing costs across different vendors.
Menu Awareness: Some restaurants have separate menus for tourists with higher prices. Always ask for the regular menu if you’re unsure.

Read More: Top 10 Cheap Eats in Tokyo

5. Narita Airport Skyliner Introduces Facial Recognition

a. What Is the Facial Recognition System

How It Works: Register your face and purchase tickets through Skyliner’s website, then use tablet scanners at gates for instant ticket issuance.
Available Locations: Currently operating at Narita Airport Terminals 1, and 2-3, plus Ueno and Nippori Stations in Tokyo.
Key Benefits: Skip ticket counter queues and vending machine lines, especially helpful during peak travel times.
Ticket Details: Get an automatically printed ticket with your seat assignment after face verification.
Eligibility: Open to all passengers who complete online ticket purchase and facial registration.

b. How to Use the Facial Recognition System

Step 1 – Online Registration: Purchase your ticket and register facial data via Skyliner’s website using your device camera.
Step 2 – Station Arrival: Look for special facial recognition gates with installed tablets at participating stations.
Step 3 – Face Scanning: Position yourself in front of the tablet for identity verification and ticket issuance.
Step 4 – Train Boarding: Take your printed ticket and proceed to your assigned seat.

c. Benefits of Using Facial Recognition

Quick Seat Assignment: Receive automatic seat reservations for the next available train.
Time-Efficient: Bypass long queues at ticket counters, especially during busy periods.
Tourist-Friendly: Easy-to-use system designed for international visitors regardless of Japanese language ability.
Better Station Flow: Helps reduce station congestion through streamlined boarding process.

d. Things to Keep in Mind

Pre-Registration Need: Complete online registration and ticket purchase before arriving at the station.
Next Train Only: System issues tickets exclusively for the next departing train.
Exit Requirements: Use staffed gates for exit as automatic gates aren’t compatible yet.
Seating Preferences: If you want a particular seat or prefer a later train, you’ll need to buy your ticket at the station counter or a vending machine.

6. Suica & PASMO Sales Resume

a. Sales Resumption Overview

Resumption Date: Sales restarted on September 1, 2024, following a pause due to global chip shortages.
Available Cards: Regular Suica, Welcome Suica, and PASMO cards are now back in stock at major stations and airports.

b. Where to Buy Suica & PASMO Cards

Airport Access: Welcome Suica cards available at Narita and Haneda Airport counters.
Station Locations: Get regular Suica cards at JR East Travel Service Centers in Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Ueno.
Machine Purchase: Look for ticket machines with Suica or PASMO logos at JR East or Tokyo Metro stations.
Digital Option: iPhone users can add digital Suica to Apple Wallet before arriving in Japan.

c. Types of Cards Available

Standard Suica: Regular card with ¥500 refundable deposit, ideal for long-term use.
Tourist Welcome Suica: 28-day validity with no deposit required (non-refundable balance).
PASMO Option: Private rail operator card compatible with same systems as Suica.
Mobile Version: Digital Suica available for iPhone users through Apple Wallet with Apple Pay recharging.

d. How to Use Suica & PASMO Cards

Transport Usage: Simply tap at train or bus gates for automatic fare deduction.
Payment Options: Accepted at convenience stores, vending machines, and select restaurants.
Adding Funds: Recharge at ticket machines, convenience stores, or via Mobile Suica app (iPhone).
Balance Checks: View remaining balance with each card tap at gates or stores.
Validity Periods: Regular cards valid for 10 years; Welcome Suica expires after 28 days.

7. Dynamic Pricing for Hotels

a. Understanding Dynamic Pricing in Tokyo Hotels

Basic Concept: Hotel rates adjust in real-time based on demand, events, and even weather patterns.
Price Impact: Rates fluctuate higher during peak periods and lower during quiet times to optimize occupancy.
Seasonal Example: Expect significant price increases during cherry blossom season and Tokyo Marathon.
Booking Strategy: Early bookings often secure better rates, while last-minute reservations during peak times can be costly.

b. How Dynamic Pricing Works in Tokyo

Event Influence: Prices increase during major events, festivals, and peak travel seasons like Golden Week and New Year.
Market Response: Hotels adjust rates based on neighboring properties’ occupancy levels.
Automated System: Special software tracks booking patterns for automatic price adjustments.
Cost Variations: Look for lower rates during weekdays and off-peak seasons.

c. Recent Trends in Tokyo Hotel Prices

Current Status: 2024 saw 88% hotel occupancy with a 26% rate increase from the previous year.
Tourism Effect: Growing international visitor numbers driving higher room rates.
Exchange Rate Impact: Weaker yen making Tokyo more attractive for foreign tourists, increasing demand.
Peak Periods: Highest rates during spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage seasons.

d. Tips for Navigating Dynamic Pricing in Tokyo

Advance Planning: Book rooms early to lock in better rates before price increases.
Timing Strategy: Consider visiting during February or early March for lower rates and fewer crowds.
Golden Week Alert: Avoid late April to early May due to national holidays causing higher prices.
New Year Period: Expect premium rates from late December to early January due to holiday travel.

8. teamLab Planets Tokyo Expansion

a. What’s New in the Expansion

Athletics Forest — Photo Credit: teamLab

Size Growth: Now 1.5 times larger featuring over 20 new artworks across three major areas.
Athletics Forest: A 3D playground where you can jump, climb, and balance through interactive installations like bouncing spheres and aerial climbing bars.
Catching and Collecting Extinct Forest: Use your smartphone to “catch” digital extinct animals, learn about them, and create a virtual collection guide.
Future Park: A collaborative space where you can draw and watch your creations come to life on digital screens.
Sketch Factory: Turn your drawings into souvenirs like T-shirts, tote bags, or badges.
Outdoor Renovations: Enjoy new spaces like the Orchid Glass House, where you can relax with tea surrounded by orchids.

b. Why Visit teamLab Planets

Interactive Experience: Become part of the art through water features, 3D spaces, and digital installations.
Learning Elements: Discover extinct species, create digital art, and explore creative expression hands-on.
Unique Souvenirs: Transform personal artwork into take-home items at Sketch Factory.
Rest Areas: Take breaks at the Orchid Glass House or enjoy vegan ramen at the Black Emptiness Table.
Award-Winning: Recognized as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2023 and ranks among top global museums.

c. Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

Ticket Purchase: Book in advance through the official website or authorized platforms like Klook.
Mobile Preparation: Download the official app (Google Play | App Store) to enhance your experience, especially for extinct animal exhibits.
Clothing Advisory: Wear shorts or rollable pants – you’ll explore barefoot through water features.
Time Management: Open 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM (last entry 9:00 PM); plan 2-3 hours for full exploration.
Visit Timing: Choose weekdays or early mornings for smaller crowds and better exhibit access.

9. Takanawa Gateway City Launch

a. What is Takanawa Gateway City

Development Overview: A comprehensive mixed-use complex integrating offices, retail, hotels, and residential spaces, designed as an innovation and cultural hub.
Railway Heritage: Built on the historic site of Japan’s first railway, blending historical significance with future-focused development.
Easy Access: Located one stop from Shinagawa Station and walking distance from Takanawa Gateway Station for convenient transportation.

b. Key Highlights for Visitors

Opening Celebration: Starting March 27, 2025, experience over 40 complimentary events featuring cultural shows, AR experiences, and Hitsuji Bungaku concert.
Autonomous Transport: Experience free rides in five self-driving vehicles throughout the complex.
Artistic Installation: Visit the “100-Color Road” by Emmanuel Moureaux in Gateway Park, representing a century of advancement.
Interactive Theater: Explore the Future Experience Theater in THE LINKPILLAR 1, offering free technological and societal presentations.

c. What to Do and See

Retail Experience: Visit NEWoMan TAKANAWA featuring 200 shops and eateries, including Blue Bottle Coffee and Nicolai Bergmann.
Sky Views: Access rooftop gardens on the 28th and 29th floors of the Cultural Creation Building for panoramic city views.
Green Space: Enjoy the 40,000 sqm Gateway Park for peaceful urban escapes.

10. Tax-Free Shopping Changes

a. Current Tax-Free Shopping Process

Tax Exemption Method: Get immediate tax exemption at checkout in participating stores.
Purchase Minimum: Spend at least ¥5,000 at a single store in one day to qualify.
Item Categories: Shopping divided between “general items” (electronics, clothing) and “consumables” (food, cosmetics).
Packaging Rules: Consumables require special sealed packaging and must remain unused until leaving Japan.
Documentation: Present passport for all tax-free purchases.

b. Upcoming Changes Starting 2026

Initial Payment: Pay full price including tax at time of purchase.
Refund Process: Claim tax refunds at departure by presenting receipts and items to customs.
Purchase Flexibility: No minimum or maximum spending limits for tax-free eligibility.
Relaxed Packaging: Special packaging requirements for consumables will be removed.
Simplified Categories: No more separation between general items and consumables.

c. How to Prepare for the New System

Keep All Receipts: Save receipts for items you plan to get a tax refund on.
Plan Extra Time at Departure: Allow additional time at the airport to process your tax refund.
Organize Your Purchases: Keep tax-free items accessible in your luggage for easy inspection at customs.

Extra Tip: Shinkansen Nozomi Bullet Train Seating Changes

a. What’s Changing with Nozomi Seating

Seating Adjustment: Car 3 switches from non-reserved to reserved seating from March 15, 2025, reducing non-reserved seats from 250 to 165 (Cars 1 and 2 only).
Reserved Seat Increase: More reserved seats available for guaranteed spot bookings.
Reason for Change: Responds to passenger preference for reserved seating while reducing overcrowding on longer journeys.
Service Routes: Changes affect Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka.

b. How Does This Affect Your Travel Plans

Advance Planning: Book reserved seats early, especially during peak seasons.
Price Comparison: Non-reserved seats cost ¥13,870 (Tokyo to Shin-Osaka) versus ¥14,520 for reserved seats.
Seating Options: Non-reserved tickets let you board any train on the day of travel, but with fewer seats, finding a spot might be harder. Reserved tickets lock you into a specific train but guarantee a seat.
Seasonal Note: All Nozomi trains operate reserved-seating-only during New Year, Golden Week, and Obon.
Luggage Considerations: If you’re carrying oversized luggage (over 160 cm), you’ll need to reserve a seat with extra storage space.

c. Tips for First-Time Visitors

Use Online Booking: Reserve seats through Smart-EX or Klook apps for convenient advance booking.
Train Alternatives: Consider Hikari and Kodama trains for more non-reserved seating options. These are slower but stop at more stations.
Peak Season Awareness: Avoid traveling during New Year (Dec 27–Jan 5), Golden Week (late Apr–early May), and Obon (mid-Aug).
JR Pass Restriction: Nozomi trains not covered by Japan Rail Pass – use Hikari or Kodama instead.
Early Arrival: Get to the station early for smooth boarding, especially if new to the system.

Photo Credit:
PIXTA