Kyoto, a treasure trove of history and cultural wonders, is a city that begs to be explored at your own pace. Luckily, its well-organized public transport system, particularly the efficient bus network, makes getting around a breeze. Here’s your essential guide to riding the Kyoto buses:
Boarding and Fares
Unlike many buses, Kyoto buses have designated doors for entry and exit. Passengers board at the rear door and exit at the front. To ensure a smooth boarding process, prepare the exact fare in coins beforehand. The fare system within the central area operates on a flat rate (around 230 yen). Look for the fare chart displayed near the entrance as a guide. Remember, drivers cannot provide change, so having the right amount is crucial (coin change machine are available close to the drive, but they con only change 1000 yen pieces. Consider purchasing a prepaid travel card from convenience stores for a more convenient option.
SUICA card can ease the burden of bus fares, but not all buses accept the IC Cards, on some of them you can only pay with coins.
Tips and Etiquette
Look for designated bus stops marked with a pole and a stop number. Unlike some places, you won’t find queue lines here. Instead, politely wait for passengers to disembark before boarding the bus. Once on board, press the request button near the door to signal your stop. As you enter and exit, be cautious of the gap between the bus and the platform, especially when the bus is crowded.
Planning Your Journey
Kyoto has a vast bus network. While most routes are well-marked in English, downloading a translation app can be helpful for navigating the system. Google Maps is another reliable tool. Simply input your destination, and it will suggest the best bus routes with transfer information, if necessary.
Donwnload the official Kyoto Bus Map (front – back)
Additional Options
If you plan on making multiple trips within a specific zone, consider purchasing a 1-day pass for unlimited bus rides. If your travels extend beyond central Kyoto, fares will be based on the distance traveled.
Consider this Kyoto 1-day Bus Tour to discover the Must See landmark and heritage sites in Kyoto!
Remember
While Kyoto buses are generally punctual, expect some delays during peak hours. While most announcements are in Japanese, some buses offer multilingual displays showing the next stop.
Exploring Kyoto by bus allows you to experience the city’s atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way. With a little preparation and this handy guide, you’ll be navigating Kyoto’s public transport system like a pro in no time!
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