As one of Japan’s most visited cities, Kyoto continues to face the challenges of overtourism, especially since international borders reopened in 2022. In response, the city has launched a new express bus service connecting Kyoto Station with top sightseeing spots, aiming to reduce congestion on local transport routes and improve the travel experience for both residents and visitors.

📈 Overtourism in Kyoto: A Growing Challenge

Kyoto welcomed over 3 million visitors in March 2024 alone, and with tourist numbers remaining high year-round, the city has been seeking ways to balance its cultural charm with sustainable tourism management. The introduction of this new tourist-friendly bus service is one of several steps being taken to ease pressure on local infrastructure and neighborhoods.

🗺️ New Kyoto Express Bus Route: What You Need to Know

The new bus service is designed specifically for tourists and operates on weekends, national holidays, and peak travel periods. It connects Kyoto Station with major tourist sites such as:

⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
🌸 Gion district
🍃 Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

By offering a direct, less crowded, and easier-to-navigate route, the service hopes to divert travelers from the already overburdened local bus lines.

💴 How Much Does It Cost?

While the express tourist bus costs more than standard city buses, many visitors say it’s well worth it:

Adults: ¥500
Children: ¥250

Tourists have praised the bus for being less crowded, more efficient, and simpler to use—especially for those unfamiliar with the often complex Kyoto bus system.

✅ A Win-Win for Visitors and Locals

This new transport option not only makes travel easier for international visitors but also reduces strain on Kyoto’s local transit services—particularly in heavily touristed areas like Higashiyama and Gion. It’s a positive step forward in managing Kyoto’s tourism growth while preserving its unique cultural environment.