#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Tower #Hamamatsucho #Hama Bus

Introduction to Hama Bus

On November 1, 2025, the Hama Bus, a free circular bus service, commenced its trial operation in the Hamamatsucho area, managed by the World Trade Center Building Corporation and the Trade Building Service Company alongside the Hamamatsucho Shiba Daimon Area Management Organization. The initiative is aimed at improving mobility and revitalizing the region, offering a seamless connection between major tourist attractions and accommodation facilities.

Initial Impressions

During the first week of operation, significant ridership was recorded, with an impressive response to a passenger survey that indicated approximately 80% utilized the service for sightseeing, dining, and shopping purposes. The bus serves as a 'tourist shuttle', predominantly facilitating short-distance transit between Hamamatsucho Station and iconic locations like Tokyo Tower, Fairmont Tokyo, and the InterContinental Tokyo Bay.

Benefits and Convenience

Passengers have highlighted that the bus meets their needs for convenient, free transport. Common reasons for riding include its zero fare, ease of access, and even accidental discoveries of the service at the station. Comments from users include delight over the convenience of a bus ride when faced with longer walks, expressing that spotting the bus at the station added to their positive experience. Comments like, “It was a relief to have the bus between the hotel and Tokyo Tower as it is a bit of a walk,” reflect the service’s impact on enhancing ease of travel.

Passenger Satisfaction and Feedback

Overall, satisfaction levels among users are high, especially among those traveling for tourism and shopping. Many express that the bus provides a unique opportunity to explore the area. Input from daily commuters suggests improvements like reducing wait times and adding more stops could make the service even better. This feedback is essential as it will guide future operation designs.

Connecting the Community

The Hama Bus initiative aims to enhance mobility within the Hamamatsucho, Shiba Daimon, Takeshiba, and Shibaura neighborhoods. By connecting key locations, the bus encourages exploration and local engagement. With short trips becoming popular during the trial, it showcases the potential to create new experiences in the urban landscape.

Looking ahead, the team plans to evaluate the results of this trial run with adjustments made for stops and routes. Strengthening community partnerships and enhancing information dissemination will also be a focus to improve convenience and promote enjoyable experiences on board.

Experience the Enticing Local Attractions

The Hamamatsucho area is rich in historic and cultural sites like Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple, coupled with recent redevelopment enhancing its status as a vibrant business and tourist center. Yet, as attractions are scattered, improving transportation within the region is crucial. The World Trade Center Building Corporation, which has been a part of this community since 1964, collaborates with local businesses, residents, and municipal authorities to establish the Hama Bus as a means for connecting people and places.

From November 1 to 14, 2025, the trial operation seeks community participation to refine its service further, leading to a full rollout planned for March 2027. Based on ongoing testing and surveys, the goal is to create a circulating bus that connects and delights visitors and locals alike.

Details of the Hama Bus Trial Operation

• - Name: Hama Bus Trial Operation (Free Circular Bus in Hamamatsucho Area)
• - Period: November 1, 2025 – November 14, 2025
• - Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• - Route: Starting from JR Hamamatsucho Station North Exit, circling through notable spots including Tokyo Prince Hotel, Tokyo Tower, Fairmont Tokyo and InterContinental Tokyo Bay.
• - Fare: Free
• - Bus Type: Large and medium-sized buses
• - Purpose: Assessing bus demand, promoting regional exploration, enhancing tourism accessibility, and increasing local awareness.
• - Co-operators: TOKYO TOWER, Tokyo Prince Hotel, Nomura Real Estate, Fairmont Tokyo, Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay, operated by Hinomaru Jidosha Kogyo

Conclusion

By stepping aboard the Hama Bus, you can experience the thriving community and cultural richness of the Hamamatsucho area. We invite you to take part in this unique mobility initiative and discover all that this remarkable area has to offer.