Map over Route Finder
Route finder is definitely one of the most used online services here in Japan. Particularly in metropolitan areas where mesh of trains, metros, and buses intertwine, it is essential to know now only where to change trains but also consider issues like how long you need to walk between trains and which exit or cargo to take for an optimized path. Depending on the route there could be 5-10 minutes difference to your destination.
But what is it all for if you cannot access the information? Metros do not have network coverage while running, preventing me to access such service when I desperately need the information. It seems crucial for a service like this because the time you spend on transportation offers the perfect time to familiarize yourself for the upcoming route.
My solution to this is to have an information offline. Instead of using brainy applications which I could only access while I am on the move – besides, typing letters using touch screens while I am walking gives me a great challenge – I decided to give an old school a try.
Tokyo Route Finder is an iPhone application that does just this. The app simply provides the information on how trains are connected and where they stop.
Come to think of it, we used to carry these as a small piece of paper which can be kept inside our wallet or a daily planner. I wonder, how many people still carry them around?
