The Tokyo Shitamachi Bus service runs between Tokyo Station and Ryogoku, stopping at the popular sightseeing spots of Nihonbashi, Akihabara, Ueno, Kappabashi, and Asakusa on route. And, although the buses don’t have guides, they do feature voice and monitor systems that give announcements in four languages: Japanese, English, Korean, and Chinese.

The buses depart from the North Marunouchi exit of Tokyo Station and in front of Ryogoku JR Station every 30 minutes from 9am until after 6pm. Single fares for adults are 200 yen, a day pass - 500 yen.

How to use the bus

For the uninitiated, using a bus in Japan can be confusing at best. Here are some tips that should help make it easier.

For the uninitiated, using a bus in Japan can be confusing at best. Here are some tips that should help make it easier.

At stops other than the terminals, be warned that buses typically only stop if someone wants to get off, or if the driver can see someone waiting. Flag them down to be sure.

When boarding the Shitamachi Bus, use the front door and then drop your 200 yen in the large slot on top of the machine next to the driver. There are separate slots for 500 yen coins or 1,000 notes on the side of the machine if you don’t have the exact fare.

To let the driver know you want to get off at the next stop, press the “stop” button near your seat (usually on the pole next to the seat, or next to the window). Use the large doors in the centre of the bus when leaving.