How to ride a city bus in Japan: front door or rear door?
It depends on the city. In central Tokyo you board at the front and pay first. In Kyoto and the Tokyo Tama area you board at the rear and pay when you get off.
Tokyo 23 wards (Toei Bus)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation says: board at the front door and put the fare into the fare box. You get off through the middle (rear) door.
- Notes can be used only if they are 1,000 yen notes. Bring coins or an IC card.
Tokyo Tama area (Toei Bus)
Board at the rear door and take a numbered ticket (seiri-ken). When you get off, press the stop button and pay at the front door.
This is different from central Tokyo, even with the same bus company, so look at the signs on the bus.
Kyoto City Bus
Regular routes: get on through the REAR door and get off through the FRONT door. The fare is paid when getting off.
- Flat fare zone: adult 230 yen, child 120 yen (Sightseeing Limited Express buses are not included).
- You can pay with cash, a nationwide-compatible IC card (such as ICOCA, Suica, PASMO, PiTaPa), or a one-day ticket.
- Credit, debit and cash cards cannot be used. The Japan Rail Pass cannot be used.
- The Sightseeing Limited Express (EX100, EX101) is the exception: board at the front and pay when you get on.
Tips
- Fares and rules can change, so check the operator's official page for your city.
- Other cities and private bus companies may differ. Watch what other passengers do, or ask the driver.
- Keep some coins or an IC card ready. See our IC card page.
FAQ
Can I pay by credit card on a Kyoto city bus?
No. Kyoto City says credit, debit and cash cards cannot be used. Use cash or an IC card.
Does the Japan Rail Pass work on the Kyoto bus?
No. Kyoto City says the Japan Rail Pass cannot be used on its buses.
Which door do I use in other cities?
It differs by city and bus company. Look at the signs near the doors.
Sources
Related tips
- Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shopsA Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
- How to ride a taxi in Japan: automatic doors, signs and paymentDo not touch the door, because the driver opens and closes it for you. A red sign means the taxi is free. Show your destination in Japanese and do not tip.
- Big suitcases on the Shinkansen: the 160 cm ruleBags up to 160 cm in total size need no reservation. Bags from 161 to 250 cm need a seat with an oversized baggage area, or you pay 1,000 yen. Over 250 cm is not allowed.
Last checked: 2026-10-28. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.