#Japan #Yamato Transport #Miyazaki #NekoMiya Bus #Miyazaki Transport

NekoMiya Bus: A New Era in Miyazaki's Public Transport

In a groundbreaking initiative set to reshape public transportation in Miyazaki, the region has officially announced the launch of the 'NekoMiya Bus', a unique ride-share public bus system capable of transporting both people and packages simultaneously. This pioneering service is poised to commence its trial operation on October 1, 2026, in the Hyuga and Irigo regions, specifically within Hyuga City, Misato Town, Morotsuka Village, and Shiiba Village.

This innovative collaboration involves Miyazaki Transportation Co., based in Miyazaki City and headed by President Koji Takahashi, alongside Yamato Transport Co., a leading logistics company based in Tokyo under the leadership of President Seiichi Awa. The project is supported by several governmental and local entities, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Miyazaki Prefecture, and local governments.

Operational Overview

The NekoMiya Bus will operate along existing Miyazaki Transportation bus routes and stops without the need for prior reservations, ensuring accessibility for all residents. Packages for Yamato Transport will be loaded at the 'Tougou Road Station' and transported in a designated cargo space in the bus. The bus will then stop at designated bus stops within the service area for drop-offs and collections.

Key Details:

• - Service Name: NekoMiya Bus
• - Operational Period: October 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027
• - Route Information:

- Oshiya Line: Tougou Road Station - Tsukahara - Oshidani, 8 services/day, 49.9 km
- Kamimoto Line: Tougou Road Station - Kamimoto & Hamanosabashi, 9 services/day, 30.6 km
- Ikino Line: Tougou Road Station - Ikino, 2 services/day, 5.7 km

• - Usage: Similar to existing Miyazaki Transportation buses, including fare and payment methods
• - Vehicle Type: Large one-box vans with a capacity for up to 4 passengers
• - Fleet Size: 3 vehicles (provisional)

Purpose and Background

The onset of rapid population decrease and aging in the Hyuga and Irigo regions has spurred pressing challenges in maintaining accessible transportation for residents, particularly for errands like shopping and medical visits. The region's primary public transport option, Miyazaki Transportation's bus services, faces dwindling ridership combined with rising fuel costs and critical staffing shortages.

Conversely, Yamato Transport's operations in the area require extensive travel times—about 90 minutes each way, with two daily round trips from their Hyuga office—for package collection and delivery. These logistical challenges underscore the need for a more efficient model that attends to both community transport needs and logistics.

The NekoMiya Bus aims to address these dual objectives by providing a dual-purpose public transport option while enhancing the efficiency of delivery services. This initiative is not just about mobility; it’s a strategic move toward sustainable infrastructure development in the region. By reducing Yamato Transport’s daily route to a single round trip, the project seeks to foster a more resilient community transport framework as it works towards a full-scale operation projected for April 2027.

As this pilot program unfolds, the outcomes related to user experience, operational efficacy, and overall impact will be meticulously analyzed to ensure the establishment of a robust and sustainable transportation scheme that serves the Hyuga and Irigo community effectively.

The NekoMiya Bus sets a precedent for innovative public transportation solutions, paving the way for other regions alike.