Bus services are operated by numerous bus companies, not only in
big cities but also in regional towns. The bus fare varies depending
on the bus company but it is usually around 200 yen for an inner-city
ride. Long distance buses which link cities are also operated frequently
both during the day and at night. This is a more economical way
to get about than by plane or by train if you are not pressed for
time.
Bus in Japan
Japan Underground
Long Distance Buses
JR operates long-distance buses between Tokyo and other major cities.
Though travel takes longer, sometimes due to heavy traffic, fares
are cheaper than Shinkansen train fares. Other bus companies provide
bus travel between major cities as well.
City Buses
All major cities have extensive intra-city bus routes. For example, in
Kyoto, buses are convenient, easy to use, and have English announcements.
Your bus ticket is numbered to indicate the fare zone where you boarded.
An illustrated sign at the front of the bus shows a changing fare schedule.
If your ticket shows the number 3, for example, the fare you pay is indicated
under column 3 on the sign. Put the fare in the cash box beside the driver's
seat when leaving the bus. In a few instances, a flat fare is charged.
Subways - Underground
Subway lines are widely available in all major cities, providing prompt,
efficient transportation. Almost all stations have automatic ticket machines
from which you can buy your ticket for various destinations.
To use the subway lines, first purchase a ticket at a vending machine
or ticket window. Your ticket is punched by hand at the wicket or inserted
in a punching machine. Please keep the ticket, since it must be returned
at your destination.
If there is no fare chart in English, buy the cheapest ticket indicated
on the vending machine and pay the difference due at the fare adjustment
office at your destination station before you go through the exit wicket.
All subway lines display station names in both Japanese and alphabet lettering
on platform signboards. The name of the station is in large letters in
the center of the sign; names of adjacent stations appear below or to
either side.
The railway system in Japan has a high reputation for punctuality and
safety.
The train fare varies naturally depending on the distance you travel as
well as the type of train you wish to catch: Limited Express, Express
etc. and the type of reserved seat: Green Car (first class), Sleeper etc.,
for each of which an extra charge is required.
Tickets for short distances are available from ticket machines that are
installed at each train station whereas tickets for long distances and
reservations are dealt with at ticket offices at major stations
To use the train, first purchase a ticket at a vending machine or ticket
window. Your ticket is punched by hand at the wicket or inserted in a
punching machine. Please keep the ticket since it must be returned at
your destination.
If there is no fare chart in English, buy the cheapest ticket indicated
on the vending machine and pay the difference due at the fare adjustment
office at your destination station before you go through the exit wicket.
Most stations display station names in both Japanese and alphabet lettering
on platform signboards. The name of the station is in large letters in
the center of the sign; names of adjacent stations appear below or to
either side.
Most if not all trains stop operating around midnight.
In Japan, cars travel on the left hand side of the road. Know your route
in advance, because road signs may not have alphabet lettering. All expressways
are toll roads. Traffic regulations are very strict and orderly. Availability
of road atlases in English is limited.
Car rental services are available in
most large and medium-sized cities as well as at airports and major train
stations. When you apply to rent a car, you will be asked to produce your
international driver license.
If you wish to drive in Japan, you must possess one of the following driving
permits.
1. A Japanese Driver's License
2. An International Driver's License (90 member countries) based on the
Treaty of Geneva (Convention of 1949)
3. A Driver's License of Switzerland, Germany or France (must inquire
about conditions to the institution issuing the driving permit of respective
countries)
Tip:
Powered by Kittiwake