Japan (Lonely Planet, 11th Edition) - Chris Rowthorn [649]
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BARGAIN BUSES
Japan Railways (JR) operates the largest network of highway buses in Japan, and we quote its prices for most long-distance bus routes in this guide. However, several budget bus companies have recently sprung up in Japan and these are gaining popularity with backpackers. One such company is 123Bus (050-5805-0383; www.123bus.net). Some of its services include Tokyo–Osaka (¥4100), Tokyo–Nagoya (¥2900) and Tokyo–Hiroshima (¥6900). Booking is possible in English online. Check the website for the latest details and pick-up/drop-off points.
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BUS
Japan has a comprehensive network of long-distance buses. These ‘highway buses’ are nowhere near as fast as the shinkansen but the fares are comparable with those of normal futsū (local) trains. The trip between Tokyo and Sendai (Northern Honshū), for example, takes about two hours by shinkansen, four hours by tokkyū (limited express) train and nearly eight hours by bus. Of course, there are many places in Japan where trains do not run and bus travel is the only public transport option.
Bookings can be made through any travel agency in Japan or at the midori-no-madoguchi (green counters – look for the counter with the green band across the glass) in large Japan Rail (JR) stations. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on some highway buses, but in most cases the shinkansen would be far preferable (it’s much faster and more comfortable). Note that the storage racks on most buses are generally too small for large backpacks, but you can usually stow them in the luggage compartment underneath the bus.
Costs
Some typical long-distance fares and travel times out of Tokyo include the following.
Night Services
Night buses are a good option for those on a tight budget without a Japan Rail Pass. They are relatively cheap, spacious (allowing room to stretch out and get some sleep) and they also save on a night’s accommodation. They typically leave at around 10pm or 11pm and arrive the following day at around 6am or 7am.
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CAR & MOTORCYCLE
Driving in Japan is quite feasible, even for just the mildly adventurous. The major roads are signposted in English; road rules are generally adhered to and driving is safer than in other Asian countries; and petrol, while expensive, is not prohibitively so. Indeed, in some areas of the country it can prove much more convenient than other forms of travel and, between a group of people, it can also prove quite economical.
Automobile Associations
If you’re a member of an automobile association in your home country, you’re eligible for reciprocal rights with the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF; 03-6833-9000, 0570-00-2811; www.jaf.or.jp/e/index_e.htm; 2-2-17 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0014). Its office is near Onarimon Station on the Tōei Mita line. JAF produces a variety of publications, and will make up strip maps for its members.
Driving Licence
Travellers from most nations are able to drive in Japan with an International Driving Permit backed up by their own regular licence. The international permit is issued by your national automobile association and costs around US$5 in most countries. Make sure it’s endorsed for cars and motorcycles if you’re licensed for both.
Travellers from Switzerland, France and Germany (and others whose countries are not signatories to the Geneva Convention of 1949 concerning international drivers’ licences) are not allowed to drive in Japan on a regular international permit. Rather, travellers from these countries must have their own licence backed by an authorised translation of the same licence. These translations can be made by their country’s embassy or consulate in Japan or by the JAF. If you are unsure which category your country falls into, contact the nearest JNTO office Click here for more information.
Foreign licences and International Driving