How To Read Station Signs & Exits
Understand alphanumeric station codes and master the yellow exit board matrix to navigate underground train stations efficiently.
The Dual Sign System
Navigating Japan's stations does not require Japanese literacy. Every single station sign features English letters directly underneath the Japanese characters, along with a distinct alphanumeric station code.
Alphanumeric Station Codes
Station codes use a letter for the line name and a number for the stop.
If your destination station code is M19, you know exactly which direction train to board and that your stop is exactly 3 stations away.
The Yellow Exit Matrix
Do not follow GPS blue dot markers when inside or exiting an underground station. GPS signals reflect off walls and become highly inaccurate.
Look at the large yellow exit boards on the walls. Find your target landmark, street, or hotel name, note its alphanumeric exit code (e.g., Exit A5 or Exit B2), and follow the overhead arrows to that exit.