In Japan, where railways and automobiles dominate, buses have taken a backseat as a mode of transportation. In the country’s smaller towns, taking a bus often reveals two familiar sights: sparse passengers and an elderly demographic. These seem to have become a “dedicated” mode of transport for older adults. At the same time, younger people are busy squeezing into subways in big cities or anxiously sitting in their cars, waiting for traffic jams to clear. Only buses, in tune with the rhythm of the elderly, meander slowly through the streets and alleys.
Kyoto’s unique bus culture
However, buses in Kyoto are quite different. Due to the convenience of reaching many tourist attractions by bus, they have become an essential means of transportation for tourists. During peak tourist seasons, Kyoto’s buses are usually crowded. On a packed Kyoto bus, you can hear a variety of languages, such as English, French, Chinese, and Korean, experiencing the international atmosphere of the ancient city.
The scenic advantage of bus travel
One advantage of taking a bus in Kyoto compared to the subway is enjoying the cityscape and hopping off to visit temples. This is a delightful experience — provided the bus isn’t too crowded. The service on Kyoto buses also reflects Kyoto’s meticulous and considerate style.
A lesson in trust and kindness
For instance, last weekend, while traveling from Shijo Omiya to Toji, I realized I didn’t have enough change — the fare for Kyoto buses is 220 yen per person, and I could only find 190 yen in coins. The rest of my money was in 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen bills, and the sign next to the bus’s automatic payment machine stated, “5,000 and 10,000 yen bills cannot be changed.” I was sweating, wondering what to do.
The bus driver noticed my predicament and asked: “How much are you short?” I replied: “30 yen,” while glancing at the still-open door, thinking I might be asked to get off due to insufficient fare. However, as usual, the driver closed the door and said: “It’s fine, just pay 190 yen for now. Remember to make up the remaining 30 yen the next time you take the bus.”
I breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a subtle sense of gratitude. Although 30 yen is a trivial amount, the trust it represented felt significant, compelling me not to let it go unfulfilled. Therefore, even though I didn’t need to retake the bus on my return trip, I rode it again to repay the 30 yen I owed. It was a gesture of honesty in response to the driver’s unconditional trust.
Thoughtful service during peak seasons
Another memorable experience was in the late autumn of the year before last. After visiting Ginkaku-ji to see the autumn leaves, I took a bus back to Kyoto Station. Autumn is a peak tourist season, and not only was the bus crowded, but traffic congestion also caused it to move very slowly.
When the bus reached a subway station halfway to Kyoto Station, it stopped, and several uniformed staff stood by the door, loudly announcing through a megaphone: “Passengers on the bus, if you find the bus too crowded, you can receive a free subway ticket here and transfer to the subway to Kyoto Station.” That time, half of the passengers, including myself, got off to take the free subway ticket and switched to the subway. This thoughtful service from Kyoto buses, akin to the gentle smile of an understanding Japanese woman, left a warm and comforting impression.
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