28. BUS TRANSPORTATION

🚌 Buses in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide

Buses are an essential part of public transportation in Japan, especially in areas where rail networks are limited. Whether you're exploring cities, rural areas, or traveling long distances, buses provide a reliable and cost-effective way to get around.

🚍 City Buses: How to Ride

How City Buses Work

• In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, buses operate on a flat fare system.

• IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, etc.) can be used for payment.

• Bus stops are displayed in English, making it easier for non-Japanese speakers to navigate.

📌 How to Board & Pay:
✔ In Tokyo & large cities → Board through the front door, pay a fixed fare when entering, and exit through the rear door.
✔ In rural areas → Board through the middle door and take a numbered ticket. Before exiting, check the fare chart at the front and pay the exact amount when leaving.
✔ Fare Payment → Insert exact cash into the fare box or tap your IC card. (Some rural buses do not accept IC cards, so carry small cash just in case).

🔹 Tokyo Bus Fare → Flat rate of ¥200 for adults, ¥100 for children.
🔹 Buses accept coins & ¥1,000 bills, but ¥5,000 and ¥10,000 bills are not accepted.

📌 How to Signal Your Stop:
✔ Press the buzzer near your seat before reaching your stop.
✔ Stops are announced in Japanese, so if you're unsure, inform the driver when you board.

🚆 JR Pass & Buses

• JR Pass holders can ride JR-operated regional buses for free.

• The JR Pass does not cover express buses (long-distance routes).

🚌 Long-Distance Buses (Highway Buses)

Long-distance buses in Japan connect major cities & tourist destinations, offering a cheaper alternative to flights and trains.

Why Take a Long-Distance Bus?
✔ Affordable compared to trains & flights
✔ Day & night options available
✔ Comfortable seating & onboard amenities

Where to Book Tickets?

✔ JR Station Reservation Counters
✔ Bus Terminals & Travel Agencies
✔ Convenience Stores (Lawson, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven)
✔ Online Booking Platforms like willer express

Tokyo’s Main Bus Terminal:

📍 Shinjuku Express Bus Terminal → The largest bus hub in Japan, connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji, and other destinations.

📌 Important Long-Distance Bus Tips:
✔ Arrive 30 minutes before departure (boarding starts 10 minutes before).
✔ Reservations are required (especially for night buses).
✔ Amenities may include toilets, reclining seats & free WiFi (check in advance).
✔ Rest stops along the way → Use this time for bathroom breaks and food.

🚭 Smoking is not allowed on buses (designated smoking areas are available at rest stops).
🔹 Seatbelts must be worn while the bus is moving.