While the metro lines do no accept the JR Pass, other IC Cards, such as the Pasmo and Suica, may be used. These cards give you access to almost any train or bus in Tokyo, and are a perfect complement to the JR Pass.

No, the Tokyo Metro is not covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass in 2026. This is a vital distinction for travelers because the Tokyo Metro and the Toei Subway are private companies separate from the Japan Railways Group. While the JR Pass allows for unlimited travel on JR-operated lines within the city—such as the iconic green Yamanote Loop Line, the Chuo-Sobu Line, and the Saikyo Line—it cannot be used at the turnstiles for the subway. To navigate the subway, you must use a separate payment method like a Suica or Pasmo IC card (available on your smartphone's digital wallet) or purchase a dedicated "Tokyo Subway Ticket" for 24, 48, or 72 hours of unlimited access. Since the 2023 price hike, it is a high-value strategy to calculate your costs before buying a JR Pass; if you are staying mainly within Tokyo, using a digital IC card is often far more cost-effective and flexible, as it works seamlessly across all train, subway, and bus operators throughout the metropolitan area.