Japan has an extensive and efficient transportation system, making it easy to travel within the country. The most popular mode of transportation is the train, operated by Japan Railways (JR) and various private companies. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is a fast and convenient way to travel between major cities. For shorter distances within cities, buses and subways are widely available. Tokyo, in particular, has an extensive subway network that can take you to almost any destination. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive, especially for long distances.