#distance-based fare

[multimodalmarian]

KANSAI REGION, JAPAN: These are rear-boarding buses. Just like in Hakone, passengers are expected to collect a ticket while boarding. Fares are distance-based and are displayed on a screen as the driver passes through each fare zone. When alighting, passengers present boarding ticket and fare. Another good idea (no photo): providing change machines on all buses. Many transit agencies may not be able to afford the latest fare systems that accept IC cards and bills. However, a change machine on a pay-after system solves another barrier or disincentive to use transit.

[multimodalmarian]

HAKONE, KANAGAWA, JAPAN: An ingenious approach too transit planning in for rural areas: use distance-based fares. This idea is often applied to metro systems. This example is the first time I have seen it done for bus trips. Riders grab a ticket when boarding, and insert the ticket on departure to determine the fare. Fare is displayed on a screen as the bus travels through stops. All bus systems accepts coins, low-denomination bills and IC cards and distribute change. 

I thought this approach was unique to Hakone. (A popular tourist destination, many of the transport options are integrated with tourism. Many visitors are provided with a map and suggested route to see the best of what Hakone has to offer by travelling by bus, cable car, train, boat, and ropeway.)  However, the same approach is used in other rural areas in Japan.