This video features an in-depth look at riding the Yagi-Shingu Express Bus, recognized as Japan’s longest local bus route. Hosted by Kiyokawa Karin, the journey highlights the endurance required to stay seated for the entire distance, which spans between Yagi (in Nara Prefecture) and Shingu (in Wakayama Prefecture). The experience covers breathtaking countryside scenery, mountain passes, and the varied towns along the route.

The Yagi-Shingu Express Bus (八木新宮特急バス) is operated by Nara Kotsu and stretches over approximately 166 kilometers, making it the longest scheduled local bus route in Japan. Passengers traverse the Kii Peninsula, encountering rural landscapes, local culture, and unique stops that offer a real sense of the region outside Japan’s big cities. Notably, the bus journey crosses through both Nara and Wakayama prefectures, connecting urban and remote areas and granting travelers opportunities to see a distinct side of western Japan.

Traveling this route is a popular challenge for transportation enthusiasts and adventurous tourists. Along the way, riders may choose to make stops in small villages or at natural points of interest, but this video shows the commitment to ride it in one go, capturing the experience of long-haul bus travel unique to this route. The journey is both a test of endurance and a showcase of less-visited destinations in the Kansai region, including mountains, rivers, and traditional towns.

For viewers interested in off-the-beaten-track travel in Japan, the Yagi-Shingu Express Bus offers a rare chance to discover hidden gems and appreciate the country’s varied geography. This video provides practical insights and firsthand impressions for anyone considering this ambitious bus ride or exploring regional Japan.