Alternative to trains in Japan
So we all know about these pretty amazing trains they have in the "Land of the Rising Sun". They are always on time, clean, comfortable. But they are somewhat expensive for the average backpacker.
I'm aware of the Japan Rail Pass and I'm really considering buying it for my upcoming trip there but I'm still evaluating alternatives.
What about buses? Would it be possible to sacrifice some comfort in order to save money and move around Japan (Honshu and Kyushu mostly) with flexibility? Is there something like JRP for buses (it would be cool if you could use it even for buses inside cities)?
Best Answer
An (often cheaper) alternative to trains are highway buses - especially when you use overnight routes that save you one night of accomodation. I'm not aware of any JRP-like flatrate tickets though.
Another very interesting option is the Seishun 18 ticket, which allows 5 (unconnected) days of unlimited JR train use for 11,500 yen - but only using local/regional trains, so for long-distance travel you have to change trains a lot and take much longer than with the Shinkansen (up to 4 times as long on some routes). Unfortuantely, it is only available/valid during holiday seasons.
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What is the best way to transport in Japan?
The most efficient way to travel around most of Japan is by train. Whether you're being whisked through the countryside aboard the famous Shinkansen bullet train or are winding your way up a wooded mountainside in an electric streetcar, trains in Japan are punctual, comfortable, safe, and clean.Does Japan like trains?
\u201cTrains and train systems appeal to Japanese people as trains are operated on time and accurately,\u201d Noda said. \u201cTrain fans find joy and get excited when they can make a tightly scheduled transfer. For them, trains are not just means of transportation, but their purpose.\u201dIs HyperDia broken?
Hyperdia is now relegated to a curiosity and is certainly of limited use....Re: HyperDia is broken. Alternatives?Re: HyperDia is broken. Alternatives? 2022/4/5 18:44It's only in Japanese but the JR o-dekake site is another alternative. https://www.jr-odekake.net/by Saru Bobrate this post as usefulApr 2, 2022What is the main transportation in Japan?
Railways are the country's main method of passenger transport, allowing commuters fast and frequent access to and between major cities and metropolitan areas. Shinkansen, or bullet trains, are high-speed trains, which connect the country from the northern island of Hokkaido to the southern parts of Kyushu.Ōsaka Train Alternatives to Japan Rail
More answers regarding alternative to trains in Japan
Answer 2
Another alternative, are domestic flights; however, these can be as pricey as some of the Shinkansen train rides, but they are quicker.
But to see the scenery, the Highway Bus, as mentioned is the way to go. I lived in Japan for 4 years and travelled quite extensively across the country, using all 3 main modes of transport - I don't have a favourite per se, but I have to say that the Highway bus journey was comfortable, albeit a little cramped (for me being 6'5), and very enjoyable - a very pleasant way to see the countryside roll by.
Answer 3
When I was last in Tokyo (Ocotober 2012) they were advertising a tourists day pass for Tokyo. I think it allowed for unlimited train travel for the day for 1,000 yen. Might only have been in and around Tokyo though.
Answer 4
A day after typhoon, with no bus and no train available at that day, we took taxi between Myiazu and Fukuchyama (somewhat about 50 km I think). The driver discussed something over his phone and, I think, re-planed the route around some closed road.
If was most saving budget travel ever for me as it saved the airline tickets were were about to lose, being unable to come to the airport at time. The price was about 18 000 yen, nothing insane for three people.
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