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Japan’s Kumamoto Introduces 50% Contactless Fare Discounts on Buses and Trams From 29 Octobe
Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture is preparing to introduce a 50% public transport fare discount from 29 October 2026, allowing eligible passengers to pay half the usual price on designated buses, trams and railway services using contactless bank cards or compatible digital devices. The initiative, called the Kumamoto Support Project, covers participating bus routes, Kumamoto City Tram, Kumamoto Electric Railway and Minami Aso Railway. The Hinokuni-go express bus between Kumamoto and Fukuoka is also included. No advance registration is required, but several airport, mountain and intercity services are excluded. The discount will remain available only until the programme’s allocated budget is exhausted.The Kumamoto Support Project introduces a temporary fare reduction for passengers using eligible contactless payment methods on participating public transport services. Beginning on 29 October 2026, qualifying journeys will receive a 50% discount on the normal fare. The initiative applies across several transport operators that have introduced compatible payment terminals. The scheme is particularly relevant to travellers because it does not require a dedicated promotional ticket, advance application or registration at a ticket counter.
Source: Travel and Tour World
