普通(ふつう)列車(れっしゃ)

The most basic train service class in Japan, stopping at every station. Often shortened to 普通(ふつう) in conversation and on station signs.

JAPAN TRAIN HIERARCHY (slowest to fastest):

• 普通(ふつう)/各駅停車(かくえきていしゃ): local (stops at all stations)
• 快速(かいそく): rapid
• 急行(きゅうこう): express
• 特急(とっきゅう): limited express
• 新幹線(しんかんせん): bullet train

Common collocations

• 普通(ふつう)列車(れっしゃ)の切符(きっぷ): local train ticket
• 普通(ふつう)列車(れっしゃ)自由席(じゆうせき): unreserved seat on a local train

Similar words

• 各駅停車(かくえきていしゃ): local train (lit. stopping at each station) — synonym, more descriptive
• 鈍行(どんこう): slow train — colloquial, slightly old-fashioned

Usage

No additional fare is required beyond the basic ticket price. On station platforms, displayed as 普通(ふつう) on departure boards.