bus

Japanese Name

ばす

basu

Description

The bus is a widely used mode of transportation in Japan, especially in areas where train access is limited.
Japanese buses are famous for their punctuality, cleanliness, and courteous drivers.
There are different types of buses, including city buses for short trips and highway buses for long-distance travel between cities.
Many buses are equipped with electronic payment systems such as IC cards (Suica, PASMO) and provide information in both Japanese and English.
Buses play an important role in daily commuting, tourism, and connecting rural communities to urban centers.

Bus services in Japan began in the early 20th century, with the first motorized bus route established in Kyoto in 1903.
Initially, buses served as a complement to railways, reaching areas where trains did not operate.
Throughout the decades, bus networks expanded rapidly to meet the needs of growing cities and rural populations.
In recent years, modernization efforts have included introducing eco-friendly buses and improving accessibility features.
Today, buses remain a vital part of Japan’s transportation system, balancing convenience and coverage alongside the extensive train network.