How much does a bus driver make in Japan?

In Japan, pay can differ with experience, the employer’s pay and allowance rules, and region. Long-distance or overnight routes, work hours, and shifts can also change a driver’s allowances.

What's a typical day like?

Before a shift, drivers take an alcohol test, inspect the bus, and review the route with a supervisor. They drive scheduled trips, help riders, rest between runs, then check for lost items and report the day’s work.

In Japan, no school degree is required, but bus drivers need a large-vehicle second-class license. Some companies help new hires earn it and train them in passenger service and routes before solo driving; special training can let people take the exam at 19.

In Japan, bus companies are told to coach drivers not to wave to another bus while passing: even a quick hello can distract them and put passengers at risk.

Japan's figure is the average and the US figure is the median. Prices and exchange rates matter too, so it's a rough comparison.