When you had trouble at the ticket gate, you used to have to walk to the station office and knock on the window. What if the staff were busy with other customers? What if they didn't speak English? The new Remote Information Terminal turns that small bit of courage into 100% peace of mind.

A sleek terminal is located right by the ticket gate. Simply tap the “Call” button to connect instantly with a staff member at a remote location. This isn’t a typical automated chatbot. A real, knowledgeable staff member will assist you in real time, speaking face-to-face through the screen. It’s a small but meaningful example of Japan’s renowned omotenashi, or heartfelt hospitality.

No need to worry if you don’t speak Japanese. The terminal uses advanced translation technology from KDDI and Science Arts, supporting nine languages: Japanese, English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Korean, French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian.
Just speak in your own language, and your message is instantly translated into Japanese for the staff. Their response then appears on screen in your language. It’s a seamless, stress-free experience that feels like having a personal interpreter by your side.

IC cards like PASMO and Suica, as well as mobile versions, are essential for getting around Japan. But have you ever been stopped at the ticket gate because of a low balance or a reading error?

With traditional intercom systems, you often had to wait for a station attendant to come to you. This new terminal changes that. Equipped with a built-in IC card reader at the bottom, it allows staff to assist you remotely in real time.
Simply follow the instructions and place your card or smartphone on the reader. The staff member can then access the data from their office and complete fare adjustments or resolve errors on the spot.
All you have to do is place your card and wait. No more searching for a fare adjustment machine while carrying heavy bags.

It’s just as easy if you’re using a paper ticket. Simply hold it up to the camera for verification, then follow the instructions and insert it into the ticket slot.
By combining digital convenience with familiar methods, the system makes getting around even easier.

These ground-breaking terminals were first installed at four key stations starting March 16, 2026. These stations serve as gateways to spots symbolizing Tokyo's history, culture, and entertainment.

Aoyama, where the Ginza, Hanzomon, and Oedo lines intersect, is one of Tokyo’s most stylish districts. Nearby, Jingu Gaien is known for its beautiful ginkgo-lined avenue, especially in autumn, while the Akasaka Imperial Estate offers a tranquil, greenery-filled setting tied to the Imperial Family. From here, it’s easy to head above ground to explore the area’s trendy cafes and boutiques.

Served by the Marunouchi Line, Awajicho is a great area for a stroll, where historic architecture blends with modern cityscapes. At its heart is Kanda Myojin Shrine, a nearly 1,300-year-old guardian of Edo that’s also popular among anime fans. The neighborhood is also known for its long-standing food culture, with renowned soba shops and traditional monkfish hotpot restaurants that have been around for over a century.

Just a few minutes from Shinjuku, Nakano-sakaue is a lively business district that also serves as a convenient gateway to Nakano, one of Tokyo’s hubs for subculture. Nearby, Nakano Broadway is packed with anime, manga, and retro collectibles, offering a dense, uniquely Japanese experience. For a quieter moment, Hosen-ji Temple provides a peaceful escape, with its striking three-story pagoda tucked away in the city.

Step off at this station and you’re right in the heart of traditional Japanese culture. Kabukiza Theater is the main venue for kabuki, Japan’s iconic performing art, and its underground shopping area is great for picking up souvenirs. Just a short walk away, Tsukiji Outer Market, often called “Tokyo’s Kitchen,” draws food lovers from around the world with its fresh sushi and seafood, especially in the early morning.

Tokyo Metro aims to create stations where all passengers can feel comfortable and supported, regardless of nationality or physical ability.
・For visually impaired travelers: Audio guidance plays continuously from the terminal, helping users locate it and understand how to use it.
・For hearing impaired travelers: Simply show the “Ear Mark” on the screen, and staff will switch to chat-based assistance right away.
・For wheelchair users: The screen is positioned at about 110 cm, similar to ticket machines, making it easy to use while seated.
This thoughtful attention to individual needs reflects Japan’s culture of close, considerate service, brought to life through modern technology.

While still in the early rollout phase, these terminals are set to be installed at all Tokyo Metro stations (excluding those operated by other companies) by the end of March 2028.
Tokyo’s subway system was once known for being confusing, but that’s quickly changing. Soon, a “digital concierge” will be waiting at every ticket gate, ready to assist whenever you need it.
No need to worry about language barriers or fare adjustments. With the Remote Information Terminal by your side, you can explore Tokyo—one of the world’s most dynamic cities—with confidence and ease.

(Source/Main Image: Tokyo Metro)