Before departure
Thank you very much for choosing Willer.
For first-time users, navigating highway buses in Japan can be stressful.
Our checklist below hopefully can help both tourists new to Japan, as well as experienced travelers!
For any questions, please contact us at en-info@willer.co.jp.
Have you checked the bus operating company name?
Pink Willer Express buses are operated only on the following routes:
https://willer-travel.com/st/3/en/pc/buspass/
*Tip: for buses with seat type STANDARD, please find the bus with STAR EXPRESS logo.
For other bus routes, please check the bus operating company name on the reservation confirmation email, and find the boarding location.
Have you checked the map of the boarding location?
Please do not wait until the last minute to check the exact location for boarding!
We have provided the map URL of the boarding location in the reservation confirmation email.
Please click the URL, and use Google Maps function (orange button on lower right) to search your way to the correct boarding location.
Is your bus leaving from a bus terminal or a bus stop?
It is helpful to know in advance whether the boarding location is a bus terminal or bus stop.
The bus terminal will have many guidance staff, while the bus stop does not have any guidance staff.
Even then, the staff might not speak English, so please check the necessary information beforehand.
You need to board 15 minutes before departure time
The bus will arrive at the boarding location around 15 minutes before the departure time for boarding.
Please make sure to arrive at the boarding location at least 15 minutes before the departure time listed in the reservation confirmation email.
If you are unfamiliar with the area, please allow yourself even more time. The bus will depart exactly as scheduled and will not wait for any late customers.
You can make a change on some reservations
For some reservations (not all), some changes will be allowed.
If you cannot make it to the boarding location before the departure time (and change is available), why not buy yourself some more time?
Do you experience difficulties inside the bus?
If you have trouble using the electrical outlet, reclining seats, or feeling too hot, the bus drivers will be glad to help. Please prepare some simple phrases in Japanese and reach out to the bus drivers during breaks.
Do you know in Japan we have bus etiquette?
To ensure a smooth experience for all travelers, we ask for your cooperation on the bus.