JapanTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Roppongi Hills, Tokyo

1. What are the different modes of transportation available for getting to Roppongi Hills?

There are several modes of transportation available for getting to Roppongi Hills, including:

1. Train/Subway: The nearest train and subway station to Roppongi Hills is Roppongi Station, which is served by the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Toei Oedo Line.

2. Bus: There are several bus lines that stop at Roppongi Hills, including Tokyo Metro buses and Keio buses.

3. Taxi/Uber: Taxis and Uber are readily available in Tokyo and can take you directly to Roppongi Hills.

4. Walking: Depending on your location, it may be possible to walk to Roppongi Hills from nearby areas such as Azabu-Juban or Akasaka.

5. Bicycle: You can also rent a bicycle from various rental shops in the area and cycle to Roppongi Hills.

6. Car: If you have access to a car, you can drive and park at one of the nearby parking lots located within or near Roppongi Hills.

7. Limousine Bus: Some hotels offer limousine bus services from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport directly to Roppongi Hills.

2. How long does it take to reach Roppongi Hills from the nearest airport?

It takes approximately 1 hour by train to reach Roppongi Hills from the nearest airport, Haneda Airport. From Narita Airport, it takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by train to reach Roppongi Hills. The travel time may vary depending on traffic and train schedules.

3. Is there a train station near Roppongi Hills?

Yes, the nearest train station is Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.

4. Can you use a taxi to get around Roppongi Hills?

Yes, you can use a taxi to get around Roppongi Hills. Taxis are readily available in the area and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands near major attractions and transportation hubs. It is also possible to call a taxi company or use a ride-hailing app like Uber. However, keep in mind that taxis in Japan can be expensive and may not always be the most efficient mode of transportation due to traffic congestion in busy areas like Roppongi Hills.

5. Are there any bike rentals available in the area?

Yes, there are several bike rental shops in the area. Some popular options include:

– Citi Bike: A public bike share system with over 15,000 bikes available for rent at various stations throughout the city.
– Central Park Bike Tours: Offers bike rentals for exploring Central Park and nearby areas.
– Blazing Saddles: Has multiple locations in Manhattan offering daily rentals and guided tours.
– Unlimited Biking: Offers bike rentals and guided tours in Central Park and along the Hudson River Greenway.
– The Rolling Orange Bikes: Located in the East Village, this shop offers quality rental bikes for daily or weekly use.

It is always recommended to call ahead or check online for availability and reservations before heading to a rental shop.

6. How is parking availability around Roppongi Hills?


Parking availability around Roppongi Hills can vary depending on the time of day and events happening in the area. During peak times, such as weekends or evenings, finding parking may be more difficult. Additionally, Roppongi Hills is a popular area for tourists and locals alike, so parking may be limited. It is recommended to use public transportation when visiting Roppongi Hills. If driving, there are paid parking lots available in the surrounding area.

7. Can you walk to other popular areas in Tokyo from Roppongi Hills?

Yes, it is possible to walk to other popular areas in Tokyo from Roppongi Hills. Some nearby areas that are within walking distance include:

– Hiroo (20 minutes)
– Azabu-Juban (25 minutes)
– Aoyama (30 minutes)
– Omotesando (35 minutes)

Additionally, Roppongi Station is a major transportation hub that provides easy access to various parts of the city via subway or train.

8. Are there any waterways or ferries that connect to Roppongi Hills?

There are no waterways or ferries that directly connect to Roppongi Hills. The closest ferry port is the Hinode Pier, which is about 3 kilometers away and can be reached by car or train. From there, you can take a waterbus or water taxi to various destinations in Tokyo Bay.

9. What is the best mode of transportation for sightseeing in and around Roppongi Hills?

The best mode of transportation for sightseeing in and around Roppongi Hills would be a combination of walking and public transportation. The area is relatively compact and can easily be explored on foot, but there are also several subway stations and bus stops nearby that can take you to other parts of Tokyo. Consider purchasing a day pass for the Tokyo subway system to save money on multiple journeys. You can also consider taking a tour bus or hiring a private car service for a more convenient option.

10.Are there any discounted transport passes available for travelers in Tokyo, including access to Roppongi Hills?

Yes, there are various discounted transport passes available for travelers in Tokyo. Some options include:

1. Tokyo Metro: The 24-hour ticket costs 600 yen for unlimited use on all Tokyo Metro lines. There is also a one-day pass that includes access to the Toei Subway and costs 1,000 yen.

2. JR Pass: This pass provides unlimited use of JR trains throughout Japan, including the Yamanote line which stops at Roppongi Station. Prices vary depending on the duration and type of pass.

3. Pasmo/Suica smart card: These rechargable cards can be used on all public transportation in Tokyo, including Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines, as well as buses and some private railways. They do not offer a discount on fares but make it easier to pay for multiple modes of transportation.

4. Tokyo Combination tickets: These are combo tickets that include access to popular attractions like Roppongi Hills, and come with a discounted train or bus fare included.

It is recommended to research and compare different passes to find the best option for your travel needs.

11.How accessible is public transportation for people with disabilities or mobility issues in and around Roppongi Hills?


Public transportation in and around Roppongi Hills is generally very accessible for people with disabilities or mobility issues. The majority of train stations and subway stations in the area are equipped with elevators, escalators, and tactile paving to aid visually impaired individuals.

Inside the Roppongi Hills complex, there are designated wheelchair-accessible entrances and ramps throughout the buildings. Most shops, restaurants, and facilities within the complex also have accessible toilets and barrier-free routes.

In terms of public transportation options, there are several bus lines that serve the Roppongi Hills area with low-floor buses for easy boarding and alighting. The Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line also has a stop at Roppongi Station which is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Additionally, taxis in Tokyo are required to have ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called through a central dispatch service such as Nihon Kotsu Accessible Taxi.

Overall, public transportation in and around Roppongi Hills is relatively well-equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. However, it is always recommended to do research beforehand and plan your route to ensure accessibility.

12.Are there any guided tours or cruises that pass through or stop at Roppongi Hills?


Yes, there are several guided tours and cruises that pass through or stop at Roppongi Hills.

1. Roppongi Hills Sky Deck Tour: This tour takes visitors to the top of the Roppongi Hills complex to enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo. The guided tour also includes information about the history and architecture of Roppongi Hills.

2. Tokyo Bay Cruise: Several boat cruises depart from nearby ports, such as Hinode Pier, and pass by Roppongi Hills on their way to other popular destinations like Odaiba or Asakusa.

3. Tokyo Twilight Cruise: This cruise offers a nighttime sightseeing experience with live music and drinks on board. It passes by Roppongi Hills, allowing passengers to see the illuminated buildings from a unique perspective.

4. Tokyo Tower Observatory and Sky Deck Tour: This tour includes a visit to Tokyo Tower’s main observation deck, from which visitors can see Roppongi Hills in the distance.

5. Golden Route Bus Tour: This bus tour takes visitors around popular sights in Tokyo, including a photo stop at Roppongi Hills for views of the city skyline.

6. Anime-Themed Walking Tour: This walking tour focuses on anime and manga culture in Roppongi, taking visitors to popular spots like the Studio Ghibli store located in Roppongi Hills.

7. Private City Tours: There are several private city tours available that can be tailored to include stops at Roppongi Hills upon request.

Note that due to construction or maintenance work, some tours and cruises may not have access to certain areas of Roppongi Hills at specific times. It is recommended to check with individual tour providers for up-to-date information on their itineraries.

13.What are some of the must-see landmarks or attractions near Roppongi Hills that can be reached by public transportation?


– Tokyo Tower (10-minute train ride)
– Meiji Jingu Shrine (20-minute train ride)
– Shibuya Crossing (10-minute train or bus ride)
– Imperial Palace (15-minute train ride)
– Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (15-minute train or bus ride)
– Tsukiji Market (20-minute train or bus ride)
– Ueno Park and Zoo (25-minute train ride)
– Akihabara Electric Town (25-minute train ride)
– Asakusa Sensoji Temple (30-minute train or bus ride)

14.How easy is it to navigate through the streets and roads around Roppongi Hills by car?


Navigating through the streets and roads around Roppongi Hills by car can be challenging for those who are not familiar with the area. The roads in this area can be narrow and congested, especially during peak hours. Additionally, there are many one-way streets and complex intersections that can make navigation difficult. It is recommended to use a GPS or map app to help navigate through the area.

15.Are there any restrictions on driving within or around the vicinity of Roppongi Hills?


Yes, there are restrictions on driving within and around Roppongi Hills. The area is known for its heavy traffic and limited parking, so using public transportation or walking is recommended. In addition, some streets in the area may be one-way or restricted to certain types of vehicles.

16.What are some common forms of payment accepted for transportation fares in Japan, such as buses and trains?


Common forms of payment accepted for transportation fares in Japan include:

1. Cash: The most widely accepted form of payment, especially on buses and local trains.

2. IC cards: Prepaid fare cards that can be used on various modes of transportation such as buses, trains, subways, and even taxis.

3. Contactless credit and debit cards: These types of cards are becoming increasingly popular as a form of payment for transportation fares in Japan.

4. Mobile payment apps: Some transportation companies in Japan are starting to accept mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.

5. Fare adjustment machines: These machines can be found at train stations and allow you to pay with cash or IC cards.

6. Ticket vending machines: These machines can be found at train stations and bus stops, where you can purchase tickets using cash or IC cards.

7. Online ticketing: For long-distance trips, online ticketing is available for some trains and buses in Japan.

8. Convenience store kiosks: Some convenience store chains in Japan offer ticket purchasing services for transportation fares.

9. Travel passes: Certain cities have travel passes that offer unlimited use of transportation within a designated area for a set period of time.

10. Resort/tourist passes: These special passes provide discounted rates for tourists on specific modes of transportation within designated areas or regions.

17.Is it possible to purchase transportation tickets or passes in advance before arriving at Roppongi Hills?

Yes, it is possible to purchase transportation tickets or passes in advance before arriving at Roppongi Hills. You can purchase them online through the websites of major transportation companies such as Japan Railways (JR), Tokyo Metro, and Toei Subway. Many convenience stores also sell prepaid transportation cards and other passes that can be used for travel within Tokyo.

18.What is the frequency of trains and buses running to and from Roppongi Hills during peak hours and off-peak hours?

The frequency of trains and buses running to and from Roppongi Hills during peak hours (typically 7:00am-9:00am and 5:00pm-8:00pm) is higher than off-peak hours. This frequency can also vary depending on specific stations and bus routes. As a general estimate, trains usually run every 2-3 minutes during peak hours, while buses may run every 10-15 minutes. During off-peak hours, trains may run every 4-6 minutes and buses may run every 20-30 minutes. It is important to check the specific schedule and route for your desired destination to plan your travel accordingly.

19.How late do public transportation services operate in and around Roppongi Hills?


The operating hours of public transportation services around Roppongi Hills vary by mode of transportation and day of the week. Generally, trains and buses operate until around midnight or early morning, with some services running earlier on weekends and holidays. It is best to check the specific schedules for the desired mode of transportation.

20.What resources are available for foreigners to learn about the transportation system and routes in Tokyo, specifically for getting to Roppongi Hills?


1. Official Transportation Websites: The first place to look for information about the transportation system in Tokyo is on official government websites, such as Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and Tokyo Metro.

2. English Guidebooks: There are many guidebooks available in English that provide detailed information about the transportation system in Tokyo, including maps, routes, and fares. Some popular guidebooks include Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, and Frommer’s.

3. Smartphone Apps: There are several smartphone apps available that can help foreigners navigate Tokyo’s transportation system. Some of these include Google Maps, NAVITIME for Japan Travel, and Japan Transit Planner.

4. Tourist Information Centers: There are tourist information centers located throughout Tokyo where visitors can get free maps and advice on how to get to specific destinations like Roppongi Hills.

5. JR EAST Travel Service Centers: These service centers are located at major train stations throughout Tokyo and offer a range of services for foreigners, including travel advice and help with purchasing tickets.

6. Local Train Stations: Train stations have information booths with multilingual staff who can assist with route planning and ticket purchases.

7. English-speaking Staff at Hotels: Many hotels in Tokyo have English-speaking staff who can provide helpful information about public transportation options to reach Roppongi Hills.

8. Online Forums and Communities: There are various online forums and communities where travelers share information and tips on navigating the transportation system in Tokyo. Some popular ones include TripAdvisor’s Tokyo Forum and expat blogs.

9. Private Tour Companies: There are private tour companies that offer guided tours of the city, which may include stops at Roppongi Hills. These tours typically provide transportation arrangements as well.

10. Taxi Services: Taxis can be expensive but convenient for getting around Tokyo. Visitors can ask their hotel concierge or download taxi booking apps like Nihon Kotsu or JapanTaxi for ease of use.