Toei Bus Otakibashi Office

Toei Bus Otakibashi Office Tokyo: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Tokyo’s world-renowned public transportation network features not only extensive rail lines but also a robust municipal bus system. At the heart of this system is the Toei Bus network, serving millions of passengers daily and reaching destinations beyond the scope of train lines. The Otakibashi Office, located in Shinjuku, functions as a central depot and administrative hub, managing a significant portion of Toei’s fleet and routes across central and western Tokyo.

This guide offers a detailed overview for both visitors and residents: from the history and operations of Toei Bus, to ticketing, accessibility, and sustainability initiatives, as well as practical travel tips. While the Otakibashi Office is primarily a working facility, it periodically opens to the public during special events, giving rare insight into Tokyo’s bus operations.

For up-to-date information, schedules, and event announcements, always refer to the Toei Transportation website and consider using digital tools like the Audiala app or Google Maps for route planning and real-time updates (GLTJP Toei One-day Pass).

Historical Development of Toei Bus in Tokyo
Visiting Toei Bus Services and Otakibashi Office

Visiting Hours
Tickets and Pricing
Access Information

Operational Significance of Otakibashi Office

Strategic Role
Fleet Management
Operational Data

Integration with Tokyo’s Transit System
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Visitor Experience

Nearby Attractions
Special Events

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
Sources

1. Historical Development of Toei Bus in Tokyo

The Toei Bus service, operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation, began in 1924. Originally designed to supplement Tokyo’s tram and train lines, Toei Bus grew with the city’s rapid expansion, evolving to serve the entire 23-ward area and parts of the Tama region. Today, Toei Bus is Tokyo’s largest municipal bus operator, recognized for its ability to navigate both main thoroughfares and narrow residential streets, serving commuters, students, and tourists alike (Toei Bus 100th Anniversary, Tokyo Cheapo Guide).

2. Visiting Toei Bus Services and Otakibashi Office

Visiting Hours

The Otakibashi Office is primarily an operational depot and is not open to the public under normal circumstances. However, it holds special community open days and anniversary events, usually on weekends or public holidays, when visitors are invited to tour facilities and learn about bus operations. Dates and details are announced on the Toei official website.

Tickets and Pricing

Standard Fares:

Adult: 210 yen (cash or IC card)
Child: 105 yen
Payment is made upon boarding, either in cash (coins or 1,000-yen bills only) or by tapping a PASMO or Suica IC card. No tap-out is required when exiting (Toei official fares, Tanaka Tokyo Tours).

Unlimited Ride Passes:

Toei Bus 1Day Pass: 500 yen (adults) / 250 yen (children). Unlimited rides on Toei buses for one day.
Toei 1Day Economy Pass: 700 yen (adults) / 350 yen (children). Covers all Toei buses, subways, tram, and Nippori-Toneri Liner.
Tokyo Combination Ticket: 1,600 yen (adults) / 800 yen (children). Unlimited use of Toei Transport, Tokyo Metro, and JR lines within the 23 wards.
Greater Tokyo Pass: 6,500 yen (adults) / 3,250 yen (children). Five days of travel on participating operators across the Kanto region.

Passes are available at the Otakibashi Office, subway ticket counters, bus offices, vending machines, and on board buses (Toei Bus Ticketing Page).

Access Information

The Otakibashi Office is situated in Shinjuku, near Otakibashi Bridge and within walking distance of Shinjuku Station—Tokyo’s busiest transport hub. Bus stops managed by Otakibashi Office are clearly marked and provide timetable information in Japanese and English. For special open days, always check official announcements beforehand.

3. Operational Significance of Otakibashi Office

Strategic Role

Otakibashi Office serves as a major node for Toei Bus operations, enabling efficient deployment of buses to meet high demand in Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Nakano, and other key districts.

Fleet Management

This office oversees a large portion of the Toei Bus fleet, with dedicated workshops for maintenance, inspections, and repairs. The fleet includes hybrid and low-emission vehicles, reflecting Toei’s commitment to sustainability (Toei Bus Environmental Initiatives).

Operational Data

While specific figures for Otakibashi Office are not public, the entire Toei Bus network operates over 1,400 buses on 130+ routes, serving about 600,000 passengers daily (Toei Transportation Network).

4. Integration with Tokyo’s Transit System

Toei Bus routes are designed to integrate seamlessly with Tokyo’s rail network. Many bus stops are adjacent to subway and train stations, enabling smooth transfers. Suica and PASMO IC cards allow for convenient payment across buses and trains (TravelPander Guide). Otakibashi-managed routes often provide vital “last mile” connections to areas not directly served by rail.

5. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Toei Bus prioritizes universal design:

Low-floor buses with ramps
Priority seating and wheelchair spaces
Audio-visual announcements in Japanese, English, and other languages
Driver training for courteous, accessible service
(Toei Transportation Accessibility)

6. Visitor Experience

Key Routes for Tourists

Some recommended Toei Bus routes managed by Otakibashi Office include:

都01 (To 01): Shibuya to Shimbashi via Roppongi Hills
RH01: Shibuya direct to Roppongi
都08 (To 08): Kinshicho to Nippori via Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa
海01 (Umi 01): Monzen Nakacho to Odaiba Waterfront

These routes connect major sightseeing destinations and allow travelers to explore neighborhoods less accessible by train (Tanaka Tokyo Tours).

Nearby Attractions

Routes from Otakibashi Office provide easy access to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Nakano Broadway, Asakusa, and other local landmarks.

Special Events

Community events and anniversary open days allow visitors to tour the depot, view historic buses, and learn about sustainability initiatives such as biofuel trials and eco-themed bus wraps (e.g., Hello Kitty SDG buses).

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Otakibashi Office’s visiting hours?
A: Open to the public only during special events, typically announced on the official Toei website.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase from the driver onboard, vending machines, or the Otakibashi Office. IC cards (PASMO, Suica) are accepted.

Q: Are Toei Buses accessible?
A: Yes, with low-floor design, ramps, and priority seating for people with disabilities.

Q: Can I use my Suica or PASMO card?
A: Yes, on all Toei Bus routes.

Q: Where can I get information in English?
A: Use the Toei Bus Official English Website, Google Maps, or the Tokyo Bus Guide App.

8. Summary and Final Tips

The Toei Bus Otakibashi Office is a cornerstone of Tokyo’s sustainable, accessible, and efficient public transport system. With multiple ticketing options, easy IC card payments, and routes tailored to both everyday commuters and visitors, the Toei Bus makes exploring Tokyo convenient and affordable.

While the Otakibashi Office itself is not open for daily public visits, special events offer a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s innovative approach to urban mobility and community engagement. For seamless travel, use digital apps for route planning and keep small change or a charged IC card handy.