Fukuoka

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Buses

Buses are a common mode of public transportation in Fukuoka with extensive city and regional networks.

Sections

1. Overview of the Bus System in Fukuoka

Fukuoka's bus system is primarily operated by Nishitetsu (Nishi-Nippon Railroad), the largest bus operator in the city. Other smaller operators, such as Showa Bus and JR Kyushu Bus, also provide services, but Nishitetsu buses dominate the network. Buses are a convenient way to travel within the city and to suburban areas, especially for destinations not directly served by the subway or train systems.

2. Categories of Buses

Fukuoka's buses can be categorized into the following types:

a. City Buses

  • Operate within Fukuoka City and its immediate suburbs.
  • Cover major tourist attractions, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods.
  • Common routes include buses to Hakata Station, Tenjin (downtown), Fukuoka Tower, and Ohori Park.

b. Express Buses

  • Serve longer distances, connecting Fukuoka City to other cities and towns in Kyushu.
  • Faster and more comfortable than regular city buses, with fewer stops.

c. Airport Buses

  • Provide direct service between Fukuoka Airport and key locations like Hakata Station, Tenjin, and major hotels.
  • Convenient for travelers with luggage.

d. Highway Buses

  • Long-distance buses connecting Fukuoka to other major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki.
  • Require advance reservations.

e. Loop Buses

  • Special sightseeing buses, such as the "Fukuoka City Loop Bus Green" (also known as the "Fukuoka Open Top Bus"), which takes visitors to major attractions in the city.

3. Costs and Fares

Bus fares in Fukuoka are calculated based on distance traveled. Here’s a breakdown:

a. City Buses

  • Flat Fare Zones: In central Fukuoka (e.g., Tenjin and Hakata), a flat fare of Β₯100–Β₯230 applies, depending on the route.
  • Distance-Based Fares: Outside the flat fare zones, fares increase with distance. Typically, fares start at Β₯230 and increase incrementally.

b. Express and Highway Buses

  • Fares vary depending on the destination. For example, a highway bus to Nagasaki may cost around Β₯2,500–Β₯3,000 one way.

c. Discounts

  • Children (ages 6–12) pay half the adult fare.
  • Infants and toddlers (under 6) ride free if accompanied by an adult (up to two children per adult).

4. Ticketing Procedures

There are several ways to pay for bus rides in Fukuoka:

a. Cash

  • Enter the bus through the front or middle door (depending on the bus type) and take a numbered ticket from the machine near the door.
  • When you exit, check the fare chart displayed at the front of the bus to determine your fare based on the number on your ticket.
  • Deposit the exact fare and your ticket into the fare box next to the driver. Change machines are available, but it’s best to carry small coins.

b. IC Cards

  • Nimoca Card: The most commonly used IC card in Fukuoka, issued by Nishitetsu. It can also be used on subways, trains, and buses across Japan.
  • Other IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA are also accepted.
  • Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding and again when alighting. The fare is automatically deducted.

c. Day Passes

  • Nishitetsu Bus Pass: Unlimited rides on Nishitetsu buses for one day within designated zones. Prices start at around Β₯900.
  • Fukuoka Tourist City Pass: Covers unlimited rides on buses, subways, and trains in Fukuoka City. Costs Β₯820 for the city area or Β₯1,340 for the wider area.

d. Highway Bus Tickets

  • Purchase tickets in advance at bus terminals, convenience stores, or online.

5. Important Local Considerations

To use Fukuoka’s bus system effectively, keep the following tips in mind:

a. Boarding and Alighting

  • Most buses in Fukuoka operate on a rear-door boarding and front-door alighting system. However, in flat-fare zones, you may board and alight through the front door.
  • Pay attention to the announcements and electronic displays, which indicate the next stop in Japanese and English.

b. Timetables and Schedules

  • Buses generally run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with reduced frequency in the early morning and late evening.
  • Check schedules in advance, as some routes may have limited service on weekends and holidays.

c. Apps and Navigation

  • Use apps like Google Maps, Nishitetsu Bus Navi, or Japan Transit Planner to plan your route and check real-time bus schedules.
  • Bus stops are clearly marked with route numbers and destination information in Japanese and English.

d. Etiquette

  • Queue in an orderly manner at bus stops.
  • Avoid talking loudly or using your phone on the bus.
  • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.

e. Luggage

  • Space for large luggage is limited on city buses. If you have bulky items, consider using the airport bus or a taxi.

6. Key Bus Routes for Tourists

Here are some popular bus routes for visitors:

  • Fukuoka Tower / Momochi Area: Take a Nishitetsu bus from Tenjin or Hakata Station.
  • Ohori Park: Accessible via several Nishitetsu bus routes from Tenjin or Hakata.
  • Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine: Take a Nishitetsu bus from Hakata Station or Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station.
  • Canal City Hakata: Served by multiple bus routes from Tenjin and Hakata.

7. Where to Get More Information

  • Nishitetsu Customer Service: Staff at bus terminals can assist with route planning and ticket purchases.
  • Tourist Information Centers: Located at Hakata Station, Tenjin, and Fukuoka Airport, these centers provide maps and guidance in English.
  • Official Websites: Visit the Nishitetsu website or Fukuoka City’s tourism website for up-to-date information.

By understanding these details, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Fukuoka’s bus system with ease. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!