'Hands Free' Tourist Bus Begins in Kyoto

KYOTO, Oct 02 (News On Japan) - Kyoto has launched a pilot project called the 'HANDS FREE BUS' to tackle overtourism and alleviate congestion on city buses, particularly caused by tourists with large luggage.

The new bus service allows tourists to store their luggage in the trunk, promoting a hands-free sightseeing experience. Despite the service’s potential to ease public transportation crowding, initial uptake has been low, with no users reported on the first day.

The initiative addresses chronic issues in Kyoto's public transportation system, where tourists carrying large suitcases often prevent local residents from boarding crowded city buses. Additionally, the city faces a severe shortage of bus drivers, a problem that extends nationwide. By 2030, Japan is expected to face a shortfall of 36,000 bus drivers due to the job's demanding nature, irregular hours, and increased responsibilities.

Experts suggest that Japan's current bus operation model, which relies heavily on fare-based revenue from peak commuting hours, may require a shift. Nationwide subsidies could be necessary for the sustainable operation of bus services, especially in light of declining ridership and changing passenger expectations.

Source: YOMIURI

Typhoon No. 22 Forecast to Strengthen and Approach Mainland Japan

As of 9 a.m. on October 6th, Typhoon No. 22 (Halong) was located over the ocean south of Japan, moving slowly northward with a central pressure of 994 hectopascals and maximum sustained winds near its center of 23 meters per second. The system is projected to develop into a strong typhoon by October 8th and may reach a “very strong” category when approaching the Tokai region around October 9th. However, the storm’s path remains uncertain, and weather authorities are urging the public to stay alert for new updates.

Driver In Training Behind Tokyu Line Collision That Caused Train Derailment

A collision occurred on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line on the night of October 5th when a local train attempting to arrive at Kajigaya Station in Kawasaki City struck a stationary out-of-service train, causing several cars of the latter to derail. Investigators from the Japan Transport Safety Board arrived at the scene on the morning of October 6th to begin examining the cause of the accident.

Spanish Tourist Injured in Bear Attack at World Heritage Shirakawa-go

A Spanish tourist was attacked by a bear while visiting Shirakawa-go, the UNESCO World Heritage village in Gifu Prefecture known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, on October 5th. The incident adds to a growing number of bear encounters reported across Japan in recent weeks.

Takaichi Wins Leadership Race, Declares All Must Work Like Horses

Sanae Takaichi, elected as the Liberal Democratic Party’s new president on October 4th, declared on stage, “I ask everybody to work like a horse,” after defeating agriculture minister Shinjiro Koizumi in a runoff to become the party’s first female leader.

Honey Trap Crimes Becoming More Malicious

A string of so-called “honey trap” cases is drawing attention across Japan as schemes once limited to extortion have become increasingly violent, involving physical assaults and life-threatening intimidation.

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Bear Family Spotted in Sapporo Neighborhood

A security camera installed at a home in Sapporo’s Nishi Ward captured three bears, including two cubs, walking through a forested area on October 5th, prompting police to heighten their alert.

Balloon Tours Offer Panoramic Views of Mozu-Furuichi Tombs

Sakai City will begin operating sightseeing hot-air balloons on October 4th, offering aerial views of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The balloons will take off and land at Daisen Park, with a maximum capacity of 30 passengers.

Nara’s Shosoin Opens Treasure House

At the World Heritage-listed Shosoin in Nara, the annual ‘Opening Ceremony’ was held, during which the doors of the treasure house were unsealed.

Overtourism: Arashiyama Launches Night Event To Ease Daytime Crowds

Arashiyama has launched a new night event called Moonlit Path on October 1st to tackle overtourism by shifting visitor traffic into the evening and channeling proceeds back into the local community. The illuminated walk runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. through October 31st, lighting up Nagatsuji Street and the famed Bamboo Grove, with a paid zone featuring bamboo-themed light installations.

Autumn Travel Season Begins in Japan

Japan has entered the autumn travel season, with visitors across the country enjoying colorful foliage, seasonal foods, and cultural traditions.

Kyoto Temple Turns Iconic New Year Bell Into Ticketed Event

The iconic New Year’s Eve bell at Chion-in Temple in Kyoto will shift to a fully paid and reservation-only system this year, with entry limited to 2,000 people, in response to overwhelming crowds in recent years.

Gang of Monkeys Invades Popular Tourist Spot

At Yamba Dam, a well-known sightseeing spot in Gunma Prefecture, visitors were surprised by an unusual scene: a group of monkeys scratching themselves and gazing out at the view as if enjoying the scenery. Unlike the occasional lone monkey, this time a whole troop appeared.

Luxury Hotel Opens Near Nagoya Castle

A luxury hotel with rates reaching as high as 3.75 million yen per night has opened near Nagoya Castle, aiming to attract wealthy guests from Japan and abroad.

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