Japan to trial cashless only bus services

Starting in November, Japan’s bus companies will trial cashless payments on 29 routes across 13 areas, including Tokyo. 

The Japanese government wants to make all public buses cashless, and changes are about to start! This summer, in 2024, MLIT shared a plan for cashless buses. While some changes will happen gradually, MLIT is in a rush to implement them. Since July this year, in 2024, bus companies will no longer be required to accept cash. First, they are going to test this on almost ten routes.

What has been used till now?

These routes allow only tickets purchased with IC special prepaid cards used within the country. Currently, most public buses allow not only IC cards, such as Suica, Icoca, or Passmo, but also cash. Some even have machines for exact change.

Where can we visit cashless?

Soon, the cash-paying option will be replaced by cashless options to make paying easier. Those who will visit Japan should get their IC cards in advance, pending using buses. Exact routes for the cashless bus trial have not been announced yet, but MLIT explained how they will select routes: in short, they want to test this plan on a few bus routes which are:

• Not busy at all, like buses to the airport.
• Often utilized by tourists.
• Already get many cashless payments.
• Be adventurous, like taking driverless buses.

The testing routes will focus on areas where the tourism action is most saturated. I think you would be better off getting an IC card upon arrival in Japan to avoid problems later with taking buses.

Bus companies in Japan will start testing services that only accept cashless payments in November. This is allowed after the Transport Ministry set new rules. The trial will happen on 29 bus routes with 18 companies in 13 areas, including Tokyo, and will last until March next year. The companies will check how this affects passengers and their staff and figure out how to help those who only have cash.

Why are the bus services going cashless?

Japan’s bus companies are having a hard time because of a declining population, which means fewer customers and fewer drivers. An industry group has been pushing for cashless services to help ease the burden on bus operators.

The main reasons for this cashless plan are to save money and deal with the shortage of bus drivers. Using cashless payments reduces costs and makes it easier for drivers, who won’t have to handle cash anymore. This change is better for the whole bus system.