A Comprehensive Guide to Boarding and Alighting Fixed Route Buses in Japan

Japan's public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and reliability, with buses playing a crucial role in connecting cities, towns, and rural areas. While navigating this vast network can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors, understanding the proper etiquette and procedures for boarding and alighting fixed route buses in Japan will ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Boarding the Bus

• Locate the Bus Stop: Identify the nearest bus stop for your desired route by looking for designated signs with the bus route numbers displayed.
• Queue at the Designated Area: In Japan, it is customary to line up in an orderly queue at the designated waiting area at the bus stop. Respect the queue and wait your turn to board.
• Have Exact Fare Ready: When boarding the bus, you are required to pay the exact fare. Prepare the appropriate amount in coins or use a prepaid transportation card like Suica or Pasmo.
• Enter Through the Front Door: Board the bus through the front door. As you enter, greet the driver with a polite "Ohayo gozaimasu" (good morning),"Konnichiwa" (good afternoon),or "Konbanwa" (good evening) depending on the time of day.
• Drop Your Fare: Insert the exact fare into the fare box located near the driver. The fare box will automatically issue a receipt, which you can keep for record-keeping purposes.
• Take a Seat: If available, proceed to an empty seat. It is considered polite to give up your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.

Alighting the Bus

• Ring the Stop Request Bell: When approaching your desired stop, press the stop request button located inside the bus. This will alert the driver of your intention to alight.
• Move to the Front of the Bus: Once the bus reaches your stop, proceed to the front of the bus. Avoid blocking the aisle or impeding other passengers from exiting.
• Alight Through the Rear Door: Disembark the bus through the rear door. As you exit, express gratitude to the driver by saying "Arigato gozaimasu" (thank you).
• Retrieve Your Receipt: Upon exiting the bus, remember to retrieve your fare receipt from the fare box. This receipt may be required as proof of payment if requested by a bus inspector.

Important Notes and Tips

Exact Fare Only: Japanese buses do not provide change, so it is essential to have the exact fare ready when boarding.

HOW TO GET ON AND OFF A FIXED-ROUTE BUS IN JAPAN!

by Stephanie Pokorny

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	25825 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	22 pages

FREE

Navigating Japan's bus system can be a rewarding experience, offering a convenient and reliable way to explore the country. By understanding and adhering to the proper etiquette and procedures for boarding and alighting fixed route buses, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, embracing these guidelines will allow you to fully appreciate the efficiency and comfort of Japan's public transportation network.

HOW TO GET ON AND OFF A FIXED-ROUTE BUS IN JAPAN!

by Stephanie Pokorny

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	25825 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	22 pages

FREE