Japanese Bus Line Willer Express Takes It to the Next Level
Andrew Kao — April 25, 2011 — Autos
References: travel.willer.co.jp & dvice
You've heard of, and maybe rode in, what are deemed "luxury buses" in North America; they have comfier seats, personal TV screens and maybe a cleaner washroom.
Compare those buses to what Willer Express of Japan is offering and you'll be floored. Willer Express has extremely decked-out buses, each with 12 "cocoons" designed for comfort. Each of the "cocoons" feature personal entertainment systems, power outlets, free Wi-Fi and seats that recline up to 140 degrees (try even 30 on a Greyhound) -- all in the privacy of nicely partitioned spaces. And oh, they're all window seats.
The Willer Express bus line currently only runs from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka, and a one-way ticket will cost you about $130, which is much cheaper than the bullet train for the same trip.
However, luxury buses are still buses, and a trip will still take 6 to 7 hours, compared to the bullet train at around two.
Compare those buses to what Willer Express of Japan is offering and you'll be floored. Willer Express has extremely decked-out buses, each with 12 "cocoons" designed for comfort. Each of the "cocoons" feature personal entertainment systems, power outlets, free Wi-Fi and seats that recline up to 140 degrees (try even 30 on a Greyhound) -- all in the privacy of nicely partitioned spaces. And oh, they're all window seats.
The Willer Express bus line currently only runs from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka, and a one-way ticket will cost you about $130, which is much cheaper than the bullet train for the same trip.
However, luxury buses are still buses, and a trip will still take 6 to 7 hours, compared to the bullet train at around two.
Trend Themes
1. Luxury Buses - The trend of offering luxurious amenities and enhanced comfort in bus travel experiences.
2. Personalized Entertainment Systems - The trend of providing individual entertainment systems on buses for customized passenger experiences.
3. Private Partitioned Spaces - The trend of creating partitioned spaces in buses to provide privacy and exclusivity to passengers.
Industry Implications
1. Transportation - The transportation industry can explore opportunities to introduce luxury bus services with enhanced features and comfort.
2. Entertainment - The entertainment industry can partner with bus operators to offer personalized entertainment systems on luxury buses, providing new platforms for content distribution.
3. Interior Design - The interior design industry can develop innovative partitioning solutions and seating arrangements tailored for luxury bus experiences, creating unique and comfortable spaces.
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