Latham's 1998 Guide to Japanese Baseball...

Getting around Tokyo:
Trains, buses and taxis

Unless you're a rich executive or the spouse of one, traveling by car isn't much of an option in Tokyo. Parking spaces are scarce, roads congested, and cars expensive to buy and maintain. Taxis are good for relatively short rides though they too cost a lot. Buses likewise offer reliable service, but usually only serve local areas. You'll most likely get around by subway and train.

With terrorist nerve-gassings on the decline, Tokyo's trains are safe and clean. No guns, no graffiti. Although rush hour trains can be crowded, you'll usually be able to enjoy a peaceful and quiet ride. And unless someone hurls himself onto the tracks (apparently one of the more popular ways to end it all in Tokyo), most trains are punctual to the second.

Until you know your way around, it's a good idea to carry a pocket subway map with you when you travel.

Also, try to familiarize yourself with the JR Yamanote line, the rail beltway that girdles central Tokyo. Most of the largest "hub" stations (Tokyo, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya and Shinagawa) lie on the Yamanote line, and most train and subway lines connect to it at some point

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