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🚌 A Complete Guide to Buses in Japan
Japan offers not only world-class trains, but also an extensive network of highway buses, night buses, and local buses. Buses are significantly cheaper than Shinkansen bullet trains and can save on accommodation with overnight travel. For long-distance trips like Tokyo to Kyoto or Tokyo to Osaka, you’ll be able to spend a whole day in the morning at the destination after taking a good night sleep in the bus.
💰 How much cheaper is it by bus?
Tokyo to Kyoto: 82% cheaper than Shinkansen
- Shinkansen bullet train → ¥13,320
- Highway bus → > ¥2,200
Tokyo to Osaka: 86% cheaper than Shinkansen
- Shinkansen bullet train → ¥13,870
- Highway bus → > ¥2,200
The price of a bus ticket varies by the day and time of your departure, unlike the fixed price of Shinkansen. If you travel on Monday, for example, you’ll be able to find the cheapest highway bus ticket to go to Kyoto. Although the cheapest bus ticket is available from ¥2,200, the average is about ¥6,600. Even if you don’t choose the cheapest option, you’ll save quite a lot of money.
Buses can be a great alternative to Shinkansen. Let’s dive into everything about the bus in Japan!
🚍 Types of Buses in Japan
1. Airport Limousine Buses
These airport limousine buses operate between major airports like Haneda, Narita and Kansai, to hub areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo and more. It is very convenient especially when you’re travelling with bulky suitcases as you can store them in the luggage compartment. You don’t need to worry about carrying them through the crowded stations as the buses will take you to major transportation hubs in the city center directly.
- Direct routes with no transfers
- Large luggage storage
- Clear English signage and announcements
- Haneda Airport (HND) → Central Tokyo: 45 - 60 min (~¥1,000).
- Narita Airport (NRT) → Tokyo, Shinjyuku, Shinagawa: 60 - 90 min (~¥3,100 - ¥3,200).
- Kansai International Airport (KIX) → Osaka station (Umeda): 50 - 60 min (~¥1,800).
- Kansai International Airport (KIX) → Kyoto Station: 90 - 100 min (~¥2,800).
2. Highway Buses
These long-distance buses connect major cities and are among the most affordable ways to travel across Japan.
- Much cheaper than the Shinkansen: the price usually starts from ¥3,000
- Comfortable seats, often with Wi-Fi and power outlets.
3. Night Buses (Night Bus Japan)
A favourite option for travellers who want to save time and money. You’ll save one night's accommodation and can start your trip first thing in the morning at the destination.
- Depart at night, arrive the next morning.
- Much cheaper than Shinkansen: the price varies from ¥2,200.
- Premium seats with deep recline or 3-row “solo” seating.
4. Local Buses
Essential for exploring sightseeing destinations outside major rail networks. You can use Japanese transportation IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo to pay the fee in the bus, in most of the cities.
- Tokyo: Convenient for reaching residential districts, waterfront areas, and locations like Odaiba or Asakusa.
- Kyoto: City Bus is extremely popular because temples and shrines are often easier to reach by bus than by train.
5. Loop Buses
Loop buses are circular sightseeing bus routes that travel around major tourist areas. Recommended for first time visitors as it covers a lot of major sightseeing highlights.
- Tokyo: “Tokyo Shitamachi Bus” (Ueno, Asakusa, Skytree), Marunouchi Shuttle (Free), Tokyo Skytree Shuttle.
- Kyoto: Bus 100/110 (Raku Bus), Bus 101/102 (Kinkaku-ji), Bus 206 (Large loop).
- Osaka: Osaka Wonder Loop Bus (Umeda → Osaka Castle → Namba).
- Kanazawa: Kanazawa Loop Bus (Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle).
- Hiroshima: “Meipuru~pu” Loop Bus (Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome).
🎟️ The Japan Bus Pass
The Japan Bus Pass, offered by Willer Express, is the ultimate tool for budget-minded travelers. It allows you to travel long distances, like Tokyo to Hiroshima, for effectively ¥3,000 per trip, whereas a train ticket would cost roughly ¥19,000.
- Offered by: Willer Express
- Options: Available in 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day versions.
- Flexibility: Allows unlimited rides on participating highway buses.
- Ideal for: Multi-city itineraries on a low budget.
- Note: There is no nationwide JR bus pass, but some JR Bus regions sell local unlimited-ride tickets.
🗺️ Popular Highway Bus Routes
Tokyo → Kyoto
One of the most sought after bus routes in Japan. Buses are significantly cheaper than Shinkansen and night buses save a hotel night, while day buses offer scenic views of the mainland and Mt. Fuji.
- Duration: 7–9 hours
- Price: ¥3,000–¥9,000
- Operators: Nishi Tokyo Bus, Keio Bus, Alpico Kotsu, Jam Jam Express, Keisei Bus
Tokyo → Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s food capital. Passing through the vast plains of central Japan, you’ll see mountains and rivers. On clear days, routes offer glimpses of Mt. Fuji.
- Duration: 8–10 hours (night or day)
- Price: ¥2,500–¥9,000
- Operators: WILLER EXPRESS, Jam Jam Express, Kintetsu Bus, Nishi Tokyo Bus, Wakayama Bus
Tokyo → Fuji (Fuji-Q / Mt. Fuji 5th Station)
Direct services with no transfers needed. Spectacular, gradually approaching views of Mt. Fuji’s full silhouette—something you often cannot see from the train.
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Price: ¥1,800–¥2,500
- Operators: Fujikyu Bus, JR Bus Kanto
Tokyo → Hakone
Direct routes to major spots like Hakone-Yumoto or Togendai. Faster and more convenient than trains requiring transfers.
- Duration: 2–2.5 hours
- Price: ¥1,600–¥2,200
- Operator: Odakyu Highway Bus
Tokyo → Kawaguchiko
Direct from Shinjuku. As the bus approaches, Mt. Fuji suddenly becomes massive and clear. The scenery around the lakes is peaceful and reflecting.
- Duration: 1 hour 45 min – 2 hours
- Price: ¥1,800–¥2,000
- Operators: Fujikyu Kanko, Fujikyu Yamanashi Bus
🏢 Japanese Major Bus Operators
- WILLER EXPRESS: A major nationwide highway-bus operator covering Honshū, Shikoku, and Kyūshū. Well known for overnight services. For buses without restrooms, there are toilet breaks every 2-3 hours.
- JR Bus: (JR Highway / Expressway Bus) links major cities. Stops are right outside major JR train stations. Seats include 3-row or 2-row with deep reclining (131–156°), Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
- Odakyu Highway Bus: Connects Tokyo with popular leisure areas (Hakone, Gotemba, Mount Fuji). Features independent 3-seat-per-row seats and privacy curtains.
- Alpico Kōtsū: Access to Nagano / Alps Areas. Night buses feature independent 3-row seats, leg rests, and blackout curtains.
- Nishi Tokyo Bus: Serves western Tokyo; runs night buses to Kyoto, Osaka, and major onsen areas in Gunma. Tend to have 3-row independent seats.
- Kintetsu Bus: Based in Kansai; connects Osaka/Kyoto with Kanto, Tōhoku, Chūbu, Shikoku, and Kyūshū.
- Keio Dentetsu Bus: Connects Tokyo with Disneyland, Mt. Fuji, and long-distance lines to Osaka and Kyoto. Offers 3-row independent seating.
🏢 Major Highway Bus Terminals
Tokyo Terminals
- Busta Shinjuku: Connected to JR Shinjuku Station South Exit. Largest terminal in Japan; easy English signage. Main destinations: Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya, Mt. Fuji, Nagano, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Sendai.
- Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit): Convenient for those staying near Tokyo Station or coming by Shinkansen. Main destinations: Airport buses (Narita & Haneda), Tohoku, Niigata, Nagoya, Osaka.
- Shibuya Mark City (West Exit): Ideal for those staying in Shibuya. Main destinations: Mt. Fuji / Kawaguchiko, Takayama, Nagoya.
Kyoto Terminals
- Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit: South side of the station. Nearly all highway buses use this terminal; clear signage and easy access.
- Kyoto Avanti Bus Stop: In front of the "Avanti" mall near Hachijo Exit. Used for some night buses and select long-distance routes.
Osaka Terminals
- Osaka Station / Umeda Area: Osaka’s biggest transport hub is near JR Osaka Station and Hankyu Umeda. Most operators are based here.
- OCAT (Namba): Connected to JR Namba Station. Very convenient if staying around Namba / Dotonbori.
🚌 Local Bus Stops & How to Ride
Key Local Stops in Tokyo (Front-Entry)
Flat rate: ¥210 (IC card) or ¥220 (cash).
- Asakusa: Useful for Senso-ji and Tokyo Skytree.
- Shinjuku West Exit: For the Metropolitan Government Building and Kabukicho.
- Odaiba: For TeamLab Planets and Rainbow Bridge.
- How to Ride: Enter through the front door, pay immediately, watch the monitor, press the button, and exit from the rear.
Key Local Stops in Kyoto (Rear-Entry)
Flat rate: ¥230.
- Kyoto Station Terminal: For Kiyomizu-dera and Gion.
- Gion: Access to Yasaka Shrine and Hanamikoji Street.
- Arashiyama: For the Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge.
- How to Ride: Enter through the rear door and tap your IC card. Press the button for your stop. Pay when exiting from the front door.
❓ Bus Travel in Japan FAQs
Buses are significantly cheaper for long-distance travel (e.g., up to 86% cheaper from Tokyo to Osaka). Night buses also save on one night's accommodation, and day buses offer scenic views.
A trip from Tokyo to Kyoto can be up to 82% cheaper by highway bus (starting around ¥2,200) compared to the Shinkansen (¥13,320). Tokyo to Osaka can be up to 86% cheaper.
Buses connect not only big sites but also towns and off-the beaten path areas too. Choose the bus type that suits your travel the most. Highway Buses: Long-distance buses connecting major cities. Night Buses: Overnight services that save time and accommodation costs. Local Buses: Essential for sightseeing destinations outside major rail networks.
Tokyo → Kyoto: 7–9 hours Tokyo → Osaka: 8–10 hours Tokyo → Fuji/Kawaguchiko/Hakone: 1.5–2.5 hours
Omio will spare you from spending so much time on checking each website of bus operators.
Yes, Japanese transportation IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo can be used to pay the fare on local buses in most cities.
For better comfort on overnight journeys, you should look for buses with 3-row independent seats or “solo” seating.
Most long-distance buses have onboard restrooms (toilets). Many highway buses offer free Wi-Fi, but the speed may vary.
While eating is generally discouraged on the local buses, it’s fine to eat on the long-distance buses. Just avoid strong-smelling foods. You’re discouraged to eat after the lights are out on the night train.
Most night bus operators lend you a blanket, but some do not, so it is best to check when booking. Blankets are generally not provided on day buses.
Large suitcases can be stored in the luggage compartment. Be aware that some companies may charge for additional bags.
WILLER EXPRESS is a major nationwide operator. JR Bus (JR Highway / Expressway Bus) links major cities, and Kintetsu Bus connects the Kansai area with many other regions.
For leisure and tourist destinations like Hakone, Gotemba, Mt. Fuji area, or the onsen/countryside, Odakyu Highway Bus, Keio Bus, and Alpico Kōtsū (for Nagano / Alps region) are very useful.
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