Kyoto

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Buses

Public and private bus networks are essential for navigating Kyoto, especially to reach tourist destinations and areas not covered by trains.

Sections

1. Overview of Kyotoโ€™s Bus System

Kyotoโ€™s bus network is extensive and well-suited for tourists, as it connects major landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. The buses are operated primarily by:

  • Kyoto City Bus (green buses)
  • Kyoto Bus (red and white buses, serving areas outside the city center)
  • Keihan Bus and JR Bus (less common but serve specific routes)

Buses are especially useful for reaching areas not covered by Kyotoโ€™s subway or train lines.

2. Ticket Prices and Payment Options

Single Ride Fares

  • Flat Fare Zone: Most buses in central Kyoto operate on a flat fare system.
    • Adults: ยฅ230
    • Children (6โ€“12 years): ยฅ120
  • Outside Flat Fare Zone: If you travel to areas outside the central zone (e.g., Arashiyama or Ohara), fares are distance-based and can range from ยฅ230 to ยฅ500+.

Payment Methods

  1. Cash: Exact change is required. If you donโ€™t have exact change, there is a coin-changing machine near the driver.
  2. IC Cards: Prepaid IC cards like ICOCA, Suica, or PASMO can be used for seamless payment. Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding and exiting.
  3. Bus Passes: Highly recommended for tourists (see below).

3. Bus Passes for Tourists

Kyoto offers several convenient passes that can save you money and simplify your travel:

  1. Kyoto City Bus & Kyoto Bus One-Day Pass:

    • Price: ยฅ700 for adults, ยฅ350 for children.
    • Unlimited rides on Kyoto City Buses and Kyoto Buses within the flat fare zone.
    • Ideal for visiting multiple attractions in one day.
    • Purchase Locations: Kyoto Station Bus Information Center, subway stations, and some convenience stores.

  2. Kyoto Sightseeing Pass:

    • Price: ยฅ1,100 (1-day) or ยฅ2,000 (2-day) for adults.
    • Covers unlimited rides on Kyoto City Buses, Kyoto Buses, and the Kyoto Subway.
    • Great for combining bus and subway travel.

  3. IC Cards (e.g., ICOCA, Suica):

    • While not specific to Kyoto, these cards are convenient for pay-as-you-go travel across buses, trains, and subways in Kyoto and other cities in Japan.

4. How to Use Kyoto Buses

Boarding and Exiting

  • Boarding: Enter through the rear door of the bus.
  • Exiting: Exit through the front door and pay your fare (or tap your IC card) as you leave.
  • Flat Fare Zone: No need to take a ticket when boarding.
  • Outside Flat Fare Zone: Take a numbered ticket from the machine near the rear door when boarding. Match the number on your ticket to the fare chart near the driver to determine your fare.

Using Passes or IC Cards

  • If using a bus pass, show it to the driver when exiting.
  • If using an IC card, tap it on the reader when boarding and again when exiting.

5. Key Bus Routes for Tourists

Kyoto has several bus routes specifically designed for visitors:

  1. Raku Buses (Tourist-Friendly Routes):

    • Raku Bus 100: Connects Kyoto Station to Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, and Ginkaku-ji.
    • Raku Bus 101: Connects Kyoto Station to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
    • Raku Bus 102: Connects Ginkaku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Daitoku-ji.
    • These buses are color-coded, have English signage, and are designed for easy navigation.

  2. Arashiyama Routes:

    • Take buses 28 or 11 to reach the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge.

  3. Fushimi Inari Taisha:

    • While trains are more convenient, you can take bus 105 or ๅ—5 (Minami 5) from Kyoto Station.

6. Cultural Tips and Etiquette

  1. Queueing: Always line up at the designated bus stop area. Japanese people value orderly behavior.
  2. Quietness: Keep conversations low and avoid talking on the phone while on the bus.
  3. Priority Seating: Seats near the front are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Offer your seat if needed.
  4. Luggage: Avoid bringing large suitcases or bulky items onto the bus, as space is limited.
  5. Prepare Payment in Advance: If paying in cash, have your coins ready before exiting to avoid holding up the line.
  6. No Eating or Drinking: Itโ€™s considered impolite to eat or drink on public transportation in Japan.

7. Tips for Visiting Popular Attractions

  1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion):

    • Take bus 101 or 205 from Kyoto Station.
    • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons like autumn and spring.

  2. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion):

    • Take bus 5, 17, or 100.
    • Combine your visit with a walk along the Philosopherโ€™s Path.

  3. Kiyomizu-dera:

    • Take bus 100 or 206 to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stops.
    • Be prepared for a short uphill walk to the temple.

  4. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:

    • Take bus 28 or 11 to Arashiyama.
    • Consider visiting early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

  5. Fushimi Inari Taisha:

    • While buses are available, the JR Nara Line or Keihan Main Line trains are faster and more convenient.

8. Additional Tips

  • Avoid Rush Hours: Buses can get crowded during morning and evening rush hours (7:30โ€“9:00 AM and 5:00โ€“7:00 PM). Mid-morning and early afternoon are better for sightseeing.
  • Check Timetables: While buses run frequently in central Kyoto, routes to more remote areas may have limited service. Use apps like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner for real-time schedules.
  • Seasonal Crowds: During cherry blossom season (Marchโ€“April) and autumn foliage season (November), buses can be extremely crowded. Plan extra time for travel.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Kyotoโ€™s bus system and enjoy the cityโ€™s rich cultural and historical landmarks with ease. Safe travels!