hinkansen fares.
The run between Tokyo and the Kansai region is the busiest in Japan, and fierce competition between bus operators has resulted in better amenities and lower prices. Buses from Tokyo follow either the Tomei Expressway or the Chuo Expressway to Nagoya, then the Meishin Expressway in the direction of Kobe. Trips take approximately 9-10 hours depending on the route and stops.
The following are among the major bus services available between Tokyo and Kobe: (Current as of March, 2012)
Willer Express
Discount bus operator Willer Express runs overnight buses with a variety of seating options. Bus journeys can be booked online in English, and Willer's Japan Bus Pass is valid on all of their routes with some exceptions.
Buses from Tokyo leave from Willer's own bus terminal, located west of Shinjuku Station in the Sumitomo Building. Some buses also leave from Tokyo Disneyland - Goofy Car Park, Shinagawa Station - Shinagawa Prince Hotel and Yokohama Station. The drop-off in Kobe is in front of the Sannomiya Sogo Department Store.
Willer's overnight one-way fares to/from Tokyo run from approximately �3800-4300 with advanced purchase in regular buses with 2x2 seating. Fares are typically higher on weekends and holidays.
JR Bus
JR Bus (Japanese Website) operates overnight services from Tokyo to Kobe. The drawback is that you cannot make online reservations in English, but you can make reservations in train stations at the same "Midori-no-Madoguchi" ticket windows used to reserve seats on trains. Buses depart from Tokyo Station - Yaesu Exit and the JR Highway Bus Terminal located adjacent to Yoyogi Station on the Yamanote Line (one stop south of Shinjuku). Buses stop in Kobe at the Sannomiya Bus Terminal.
JR Bus offers, in order of comfort and price, Standard buses with individual seats arranged 1x1x1 and Premium Buses that offer wider seats and more amenities.
JR Bus'
