Is There a Subway in Japan? (2025 Travel Guide)

Quick answer: Yes, Subway is in Japan—and it’s been here for over 20 years. You’ll find it in major cities, malls, and train stations, but with some Japanese twists on the menu and a calmer, more polite ordering experience.

Subway’s Presence in Japan
Subway first entered Japan in 1991 and has since grown steadily, with a strong presence in:
- Tokyo
- Osaka
- Nagoya
- Fukuoka
- Sapporo
- Yokohama
- Airport terminals
- University campuses
- Underground shopping malls (depachika)

There are now over 150 locations nationwide, mostly in high-foot-traffic zones like office districts and train stations.

Where to Find Subway
Use:
- Google Maps – “Subway Sandwich Japan”
- Subway Japan official website – Includes store locator and Japanese menus
- Food delivery apps like Uber Eats and Wolt in major cities

What’s on the Subway Japan Menu?
Subway Japan keeps some global classics while embracing local preferences.

Familiar options:
- Roasted Chicken
- Tuna Salad
- Ham & Cheese
- BLT
- Egg Salad

Japan-only flavors:
- Shrimp & Avocado
- Teriyaki Chicken
- Miso Pork
- Soy Patty (plant-based)
- Basil Chicken

Unique bread choices:
- White
- Wheat
- Sesame
- Basil-infused
- Occasionally regional limited-edition breads

Customization Culture
Subway’s customization model fits surprisingly well in Japan—where personalization and politeness are valued.

You’ll be asked (in Japanese or broken English, depending on staff):
- Which bread?
- Toasted or not?
- Which vegetables?
- Which sauce?

Sauces include:
- Mayonnaise
- Balsamic
- Honey mustard
- Basil sauce
- Teriyaki
- Wasabi soy

And yes—you can say “everything” and get all veggies.

How Much Does It Cost?
Prices are similar to what you’d pay for a fast-casual lunch in Japan.

- 6-inch sandwich: ¥490–¥690
- Footlong (called “double”): ¥880–¥1,200
- Drink combo: +¥200–¥300
- Cookies: ~¥150 each

A typical meal will run you ¥800–¥1,200 (~$6–$9 USD).

Delivery and Takeout
Most Subway Japan stores offer:
- Takeout in neatly wrapped packaging
- Delivery via Uber Eats, Wolt, or Demae-can

Perfect for office workers and students wanting a clean, veggie-packed meal.

Seasonal & Regional Specials
Subway Japan loves seasonal menus. Throughout the year, you’ll see:
- Sakura Shrimp Sandwiches (spring)
- Yuzu Chicken Wraps (summer)
- Pumpkin Cream Soup (fall)
- Gratin sandwiches (winter)

These rotate frequently, so check their site or in-store signs for specials.

How It Compares to U.S. Subway

Feature | Japan | U.S.
--------|-------|-----
Portion Size | Smaller | Larger
Menu Variety | More seafood/plant-based | More meat-focused
Customization | Polite & orderly | Loud & assertive
Drinks | Melon soda, iced tea | Fountain sodas
Vibe | Quiet, clean | Noisy, varied

If you’re craving a healthier option in Japan, Subway is often one of the few sandwich shops offering lots of veggies and choice.

What You Won’t Find
- No meatball sub (rarely appears)
- No “footlong” branding
- No unlimited fountain refills
- No cookies the size of your face

That said, you won’t miss them. Everything is proportioned for Japanese dining preferences.

Final Verdict
Is there a Subway in Japan?
Yes—and it’s thriving.

Whether you want something light before sightseeing or need a veggie-packed lunch near your hotel, Subway Japan delivers consistency, cleanliness, and just enough international familiarity—plus a few unique surprises you won’t find anywhere else.