Did you know that traveling between Yamanashi and Shizuoka isn’t limited to JR trains?

There is actually a direct bus route that runs only on weekends and holidays!

No transfers needed, and the fare is about half the price of JR.

In this article, we introduce the highlights of the “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line”.

 

▼At a glance (as of October 2025)

 

Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line Overview

The “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line” is a highway bus operated by Yamanashi Kotsu.

It connects 10 bus stops across Yamanashi and Shizuoka, including Kofu Station and Shizuoka Station.

＞＞Official website for the “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line”
＞＞Check seat availability for the “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line”

 

Comparing the Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line with Other Routes

I compared the differences between highway buses and the Shinkansen to see the contrast.

For this comparison, I used the “Kofu Station → Shizuoka Station” route as a clear example!

The biggest highlight is the cost performance!

Compared to using JR limited express trains, the fare is about 47% cheaper. Even better, the bus can arrive about 30 minutes faster.

 

How to Get to the Bus Stop (Kofu Station)

This time, we took the highway bus from Kofu Station to Minobu.

Here’s how to get to the bus stop from Kofu Station.

Head toward the South Exit of Kofu Station.

Once you exit, the bus terminal is right in front of you.

Boarding is at Stop No. 6.

It’s located near the tourist information center!

Even if you arrive early, there are benches available, which is convenient.

Restrooms are located near Stop No. 1.

Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line Bus Facilities

※Features may vary depending on the bus.

◼︎Luggage

Large items such as suitcases and Boston bags can be stored in the trunk.

If the trunk is not open, feel free to ask the driver for assistance.

Please keep valuables and fragile items with you on board.

◼︎Seats

The bus has a standard 4-row seating layout.

For a more comfortable ride, store larger items in the trunk and keep only essentials with you.

◼︎Restroom

A restroom is available on board, providing peace of mind.

Please be careful when using it while the bus is in motion.

◼︎Others

There are no power outlets, and Wi-Fi is not available.

Overhead, you’ll find reading lights and air vents.

You can adjust the airflow to your preference.

Ride Experience

Here’s what it was like to actually take the bus.

While waiting at Stop No. 6 at Kofu Station, the bus arrived right on time.

The stylish-looking bus design was lovely, and the driver was polite and attentive.

This time, we booked in advance through Japan Bus Online.

Since we had already purchased our tickets, boarding was very smooth.

The legroom felt reasonably spacious.

For the writer (just under 160 cm tall), it was quite comfortable.

There are no tray tables, so if you plan to eat, light snacks like bread or rice balls are recommended.

Out of consideration for others, it’s best to avoid strongly scented foods.

The seats are slightly reclined by default, allowing you to relax from the start.

From Kofu Station to Minobu, there are no rest stops, so the journey feels quick.

As your stop approaches, an announcement will be made, so please be sure to press the stop button.

Even if you have a reservation, the bus may pass your stop if you don’t press the button.

The writer got off at Minobu.

3 Recommended Spots Near Kofu Station

Here are three great places within walking distance of Kofu Station! Perfect to visit before departure!

◻︎Café & Wine Bar “Budoshu Ichibankan” (right in front of Kofu Station)

A café and wine bar where you can enjoy Yamanashi wines, including Koshu wine.

It’s close to Bus Stop No. 6, so you can even enjoy a quick standing drink before departure.

Many solo visitors stop by, and small snacks are available at reasonable prices.

Many of the snacks are made using ingredients from Yamanashi Prefecture, and my personal favorite was the ¥300 “Hoto Gratin. It was so delicious and you’ll want more!

You can also purchase wine as a souvenir.

If you find one you like, buying a bottle is a great idea!

◎Basic Information: Café & Wine Bar Budoshu Ichibankan

Hours	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Closed	No regular holidays
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/8ASmzzR9YXXsutMNA
Phone	+81-55-269-5455
Official Website	https://www.jrccd.co.jp/celeo/shop/kofu/785/

◻︎“Kuromitsu-an Kinako-tei” (famous for Kikyo Shingen Mochi)

About a 7-minute walk from Kofu Station.

You can enjoy drinks and desserts made with homemade kuromitsu syrup and kinako powder.

I ordered the “Premium Kikyo Shingen Nama Pudding.”

The moment you take a bite, the rich roasted soybean flour (kinako) flavor spreads in your mouth. If you like kinako, this is a must-try!

Inside the shop, they also sell products from Kofu, including the famous Shingen Mochi!

◎Basic Information: Kuromitsu-an Kinako-tei

Hours	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary depending on the season)
Closed	No regular holidays
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/chNCdno7GCcbivdD9
Phone	+81-55-254-7788
Official Website	https://koshuyumekouji.com/shop/kinakotei/

◻︎“Yamanashi Satoyama Shoten”

About a 5-minute walk from Kofu Station, located in the charming Koshuyumekoji area.

Enjoy local ingredients and sake while watching trains pass by.

We tried a locally recommended craft beer, “Far Yeast White”.

Yamanashi is known for wine, but the craft beer was also excellent!

Their popular curry rice ball is made with carefully selected local ingredients and delicious Kofu water.

It’s small but very satisfying!

◎Basic Information: Yamanashi Satoyama Shoten

Hours	11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order: 8:00 PM)
Closed	Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/bgbPJKVEGusUG4se7
Phone	Not available
Official Website	https://www.instagram.com/yamanashi_satoyama_shop/

Travel Between Yamanashi and Shizuoka with the Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line!

The “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line” is an affordable and comfortable highway bus.

Why not take a casual trip and enjoy wine in Kofu or matcha sweets in Shizuoka?

 

＼Check availability for the “Ryuo–Kofu to Shizuoka Line”／
https://japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/11500250001