What’s the Difference Between Highway Buses and Overnight Buses? A Beginner’s Guide!

PublicationDate：2025/03/04

UpdateDate：2025/03/04

What’s the Difference Between Highway Buses and Overnight Buses? A Beginner’s Guide!

If you’re planning a trip or a business trip, you’ve probably come across the terms “highway bus” and “overnight bus.” But can you clearly explain the difference between them? Many people assume, “A highway bus runs during the day, and an overnight bus runs at night, right?” While that’s not entirely wrong, there’s more to it!Each type of bus has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Choosing the right one depends on your travel needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between highway buses and overnight buses and help you decide which one is best for you!

TableofContents

1. What is a Highway Bus?
2.What is an Overnight Bus?
3. Which One Should You Choose?
Conclusion

1. What is a Highway Bus?

A highway bus is a long-distance bus that connects cities. These buses primarily operate during the daytime and use expressways for smooth and efficient travel.

Key Features of Highway Buses

✅ Operates during the daytime

✅ Used for intercity travel

✅ More affordable than bullet trains or flights

✅ Includes rest stops at service areas

Advantages of Highway Buses

More Affordable

Highway buses are significantly cheaper than bullet trains or flights. For example, a trip from Tokyo to Osaka costs around ¥13,000 by bullet train, while a highway bus ticket ranges from ¥3,000 to ¥10,000.

Frequent Departures

Highway buses operate multiple times a day, making it easy to find a departure time that suits your schedule.

Convenient Stops

Unlike bullet trains, which stop only at major stations, highway buses stop at multiple bus terminals and designated stops, making it easier to reach your final destination.

■Disadvantages of Highway Buses

Affected by Traffic

Since highway buses use expressways, travel time can be delayed due to accidents or heavy traffic, especially during Golden Week or New Year holidays.

Longer Travel Time

Compared to bullet trains or flights, highway buses take longer. For example, traveling from Tokyo to Osaka takes about 2.5 hours by bullet train, but 7 to 9 hours by highway bus.

2.What is an Overnight Bus?

An overnight bus departs at night and arrives at its destination the following morning. It is ideal for long-distance travel, commonly used for routes such as Tokyo to Osaka or Tokyo to Fukuoka.

Key Features of Overnight Buses

✅ Departs at night and arrives in the morning

✅ Suitable for long-distance travel

✅ Saves on accommodation costs

✅ Includes comfortable reclining seats and private compartments in some cases

Advantages of Overnight Buses

Saves on Accommodation Costs

One of the biggest advantages is that an overnight bus combines travel and accommodation. You can reach your destination without paying for a hotel.

Maximizes Your Time

By traveling while you sleep, you can arrive at your destination early in the morning, allowing you to start sightseeing or business meetings right away.

Comfortable Seating Options

Modern overnight buses feature fully reclining seats and private compartments with curtains, providing a more relaxing travel experience.

Disadvantages of Overnight Buses

Difficulty Sleeping

The movement of the bus, engine noise, and other passengers may make it hard to sleep well. This can be especially challenging for light sleepers.

(💡 Check out our tips for sleeping better on an overnight bus!)

Early Morning Arrivals

Overnight buses often arrive between 5:00 and 6:00 AM, which may be too early for many shops and attractions. You might need to kill time at a café or manga café before starting your day.

3. Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re wondering, “Which is better, a highway bus or an overnight bus?”, the answer depends on your travel style and purpose.

✅ If you prefer to travel during the day and want a comfortable ride → Choose a highway bus

✅ If you want to save time and accommodation costs → Choose an overnight bus

For short distances (e.g., Tokyo to Nagoya), a highway bus is a quick and convenient option. For long distances (e.g., Tokyo to Fukuoka), an overnight bus helps you save on hotel costs.

Additionally, many modern buses are now equipped with free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and footrests, so check the bus facilities in advance to find one that suits your needs!