Japanese tour bus operator Kochi Ekimae Kanko has announced the launch of the country’s first-ever double-decker sleeper bus service, set to begin operations on March 4. The new service, named Sommeil Profond—French for “deep slumber”—will offer a direct overnight route between Tokyo and Kochi, a city on the southern island of Shikoku.
Marketed as a “mobile capsule hotel,” the service aims to provide an affordable and comfortable travel alternative for domestic passengers looking to avoid rising hotel costs due to increased foreign inbound tourism. As an introductory offer, a one-way ticket is priced at just US$47, available for a limited time.
The launch follows new safety regulations introduced by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism in November 2024 for overnight bus services. Designed for maximum comfort, Sommeil Profond allows travelers to reach their destination fully rested, eliminating the need for hotel stays in Tokyo or Kochi. The journey is expected to take up to 13 hours, catering especially to young travelers attending one-day events such as concerts or conferences.
With its innovative approach to long-distance travel, Kochi Ekimae Kanko’s Sommeil Profond is set to redefine overnight transportation in Japan, offering a cost-effective and convenient alternative for travelers.
