Overnight buses are a good transportation option when it comes to long-distance travel between cities and regions in Japan. Although the journey is longer when compared to taking the Shinkansen or flying, it costs significantly less. For budget travellers, this mode of transportation is highly recommended as it can cut expenses for both fares and accommodation.
Overnight Bus Companies
There are several bus companies that offer overnight routes all over Japan; two of the most popular are:
JR Buses – The Japan Rail Group’s highway buses operate in eight regional networks:
- JR Kyushu Bus
- JR Shikoku Bus
- Chugoku JR Bus
- Nishinihon JR Bus
- JR Tokai Bus
- JR Kanto Bus
- JR Tohoku Bus
- JR Hokkaido Bus
Willer Express – This is Japan’s premier discount bus company and it operates an extensive network of interregional bus networks. It offers the Japan Bus Pass, which is valid on all Willer Express buses for 3, 5 or 7 days on particular times, days and routes.
Routes
Some of the most popular overnight bus routes are between Tokyo and Osaka, Tokyo and Nagoya, Tokyo and Sendai, Hakodate and Sapporo, and Hiroshima and Nagasaki. For accurate listings, it is best to visit the bus companies’ websites.
Facilities and Amenities
Overnight buses are spacious, with reclining seats in sets of two or three on both sides. They offer sufficient luggage space for large bags and suitcases. However, they generally have a rule of only up to two large suitcases per passenger.
The majority of these buses have toilets and may stop a few times along the way for restroom breaks. Some may even be equipped with electrical outlets and wireless internet for passenger use.
Tickets
Bus tickets can be purchased at bus terminals and stations, through travel agencies, at convenience stores, or via online reservation systems, and these may be available as one-way tickets, return tickets or passes.
For information on routes, tickets, schedules and reservations, below are links to some websites (in English) for overnight buses in Japan:
