If there is no IC symbol, you will need to pay in cash. Luckily, most buses have easy-to-use exchange machines. If you plan on paying in cash, take a numbered ticket from the box when you get on the bus. (if it is a non-flat rate fare system).
People Also Ask
While slower than trains, buses cost usually less than half, especially on the competitive Tokyo routes where discount fares can be incredibly low. Every prefecture is served by at least one bus company, with the major cities serving as regional hubs.
In Japan, you'll use a Suica (or Icoca) card for local transport and most small purchases, and a credit card for big purchases (hotels etc). But you still need Japanese cash for places that don't take cards.
Bus Service Information (Bus Service Information)Yes. All buses, with or without restrooms, stop for toilet breaks once every 2 to 3 hours along the way.
Every station has multilingual ticket machines where you can buy a one-way fare ticket, or you can use a rechargeable IC card to swipe in and out of the ticket gates. Tokyo Metro and Toei have teamed up to offer a subway pass for tourists that can save you some yen, as well as being super convenient.
You shouldn't have a problem paying admission at major attractions by card. Large tourist attractions within Japan will always accept credit cards, but places like shrines, temples, and off-the-beaten-track locations are usually cash-only.
All carry-on luggage must fit into the overhead rack or under your seat. Please note that some seats have heaters under them, which may cause that area to heat up considerably. In some cases, the check-in crew or the bus driver may ask you to put your carry-on luggage in the trunk.
It's okay to eat food on the bus, but passengers are asked to consider if the scent of the food might disturb other passengers. If you need something to drink, it's possible to purchase something from a vending machine.
Yes, there is Uber in Japan…Locals tell us that although Japan does have Uber, it's not super well-known and it's definitely not the most convenient option when it comes to traveling around the more sprawling places in Japan, namely cities like Kyoto or Tokyo.
Although at certain times of the day, or for short journeys, they might be a good option, Japanese taxis are among the most expensive in the world. Each company decides its own prices, but in the end, they tend to be quite similar. The normal prices are: First two kilometers: ¥ 730 ( US$ 4.90)
Trains. We recommend travelling between the cities in Japan by using a Japan Rail Pass, on the hi-tech “Shinkansen” trains. The passes are valid for 7, 14 or 21 days, and they are the most convenient and economical option when taking multiple train journeys across Japan.