Taking the local bus in Japan 市バスに乗る

When we think of transportation in Japan, trains usually come to mind. And for good reason: you’ll likely use them very often. However, in many Japanese cities, it’s actually the local buses that form the backbone of the public transport system, especially in places where trains don’t go.

But taking a local bus in Japan can be confusing at first: you board from the rear, pay when you get off, and fares often depend on how far you travel. Let us explain everything!

Why does public transport in Japan seem complicated?

Unlike in many Western countries, Japan’s transport system has been privatized for decades. As a result, there are hundreds of different companies, some operating just one or two lines within a city.

In the same metropolitan area, you may encounter several different bus or train operators, each with their own rules, stops, fares, and stations. This can be confusing for foreign visitors.

Fortunately, IC cards (contactless payment cards like Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, etc.) help simplify payments. These are now accepted almost everywhere in the country, though a few rural areas may still be exceptions.

Why should you use local buses in Japan?

To access tourist sites within cities

In Kyoto, for example, the subway doesn’t serve most of the city’s famous temples. Buses are the only way to reach places like Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, or Kiyomizu-dera.

Even in other mid-sized cities, buses are often more convenient than trains for getting around town.

To explore areas without trains

In rural regions, mountain villages, or national parks, train lines are rare or nonexistent. Local buses are often the only form of public transport available.

An economical option

Though slower, local buses are cheaper than trains. Some cities even offer flat fares regardless of how many stops you travel.

Daily passes are also available in some areas, allowing unlimited rides throughout the day.

How do you board a local bus in Japan?

The boarding and payment system on Japanese buses is often what throws off foreign travelers the most.

Here’s the standard process, which applies in most Japanese cities (such as Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Sapporo...).

1. Board from the rear

Once the bus has stopped, enter through the rear door. There are two possible situations:

• If there’s a ticket machine at the entrance: take a paper ticket with a number printed on it. This number corresponds to your boarding point.
• If you're using an IC card (like Suica), simply tap it on the card reader as you board. No need for a paper ticket in this case.

Watch what the Japanese passengers ahead of you do if the instructions aren’t posted in English.

2. During the ride

Above the driver, there’s an electronic screen displaying key information:

• The name of the next stop
• The fare for each boarding number at the next stop

If you have a paper ticket, find your number and follow the fare chart as it updates with each stop.

If you’re using an IC card, there’s nothing more to do — the system will automatically calculate your fare from your entry to exit point.

3. Request your stop

When your stop is next, press one of the red buttons located along the walls or handrails to indicate you want to get off.

• If you have a paper ticket, prepare the exact fare in coins based on your ticket number.
• If you don’t have exact change, use the machine near the driver to break a 1 000 yen bill into coins. Larger bills (5 000 or 10 000 yen) are not accepted.

4. Exit and pay at the front

Before exiting, you need to pay for your ride. There are two options:

• With a paper ticket: drop the ticket and the exact fare into the box next to the driver.
• With an IC card: tap it on the card reader as you get off. The fare will be automatically deducted.

What about in Tokyo or Osaka? The system is reversed

In Tokyo, Osaka, and some other major cities, city buses often work differently:

• You board from the front
• You pay immediately when you get on (either with cash or IC card)
• The fare is flat (210 yen in Tokyo)
• You exit freely from the rear

In this case, there’s no need for a ticket and no fare variation.

Is the fare always a flat rate?

Generally, no

In most cities, the fare depends on the distance traveled. That’s why you need to take a ticket or scan your IC card when boarding, and pay according to your exit point.

Exceptions

Some cities do use a flat fare system, which makes things simpler. Here are a few examples:

Where can you find bus schedules and stops?

In cities and near stations

In larger cities, bus stops are clearly marked and often located near train stations. Timetables are usually posted in both Japanese and English.

In rural areas

Things get trickier in the countryside or away from stations. Stops may be very simple : just a sign on a pole and schedules may only be in Japanese.

Solution: Google Maps

Google Maps is quite reliable for bus routes in Japan. It provides:

• The correct stop
• Available bus lines
• The exact time of the next bus
• The fare

You just need an internet connection to use it effectively.

What is the luggage policy on local buses?

Local buses don’t have luggage compartments and interior space is limited. General rules are:

• Small bags or backpacks (<10 kg): allowed
• Carry-on suitcases: tolerated if the bus isn’t crowded
• Large suitcases (>70 cm): should be avoided

If you have a lot of luggage, it’s better to use:

• A taxi
• A luggage delivery service (takkyūbin), commonly available at convenience stores (konbini)

A few helpful tips

Practical advice

• Don’t expect the driver to assist you, they likely won’t speak English
• Plan your route in advance using Google Maps (number of stops, stop name)
• Always carry coins (especially 100 yen coins)
• Watch what others do, it’s often your best guide
• Prepare your change before getting off to avoid holding up the line
• Avoid peak hours if you have bulky luggage

Onboard etiquette

• Stay quiet: no loud phone calls or conversations
• Don’t eat on board (unless it’s a long-distance journey)
• Give up your seat for elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities
• Keep your belongings close so you don’t block the aisle

Respecting fellow passengers is essential on Japanese public transport.