Yokohama City to Enhance Community Transportation with New “Odekake Shuttle” Services
Yokohama, Japan – July 25, 2025 – Yokohama City announced today its commitment to expanding and improving regional public transportation by launching a new phase of its “Odekake Shuttle” initiative. Starting in August, three additional districts will begin real-world testing of these innovative, van-type shuttle buses, a move that aims to significantly enhance mobility and convenience for residents.
This latest expansion signifies a crucial step forward in Yokohama City’s efforts to “accelerate the increase” of its community public transportation network. The “Odekake Shuttle” service, utilizing smaller, more flexible wagon-type buses, is designed to address the specific transportation needs of various neighborhoods, particularly those with less-served routes or populations requiring more accessible options.
The announcement, made by the City of Yokohama on July 25, 2025, at 01:00 JST, highlights the city’s proactive approach to urban planning and its dedication to creating a more connected and convenient living environment for all its citizens. By introducing these shuttle services in new areas, Yokohama City aims to:
- Improve Accessibility: The “Odekake Shuttle” is particularly beneficial for residents who may find it challenging to access existing public transportation due to distance or limited service hours. This includes the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.
- Enhance Neighborhood Connectivity: The smaller vehicle size and flexible routes allow the shuttles to navigate narrower streets and reach more localized destinations within communities, thereby fostering better connections between residential areas, local shops, medical facilities, and community centers.
- Promote Sustainable Transportation: By offering a viable alternative to private car use, the “Odekake Shuttle” contributes to reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact within the city.
- Gather Valuable Data: The real-world operational testing in these three new districts will provide crucial data on usage patterns, operational efficiency, and user satisfaction, which will inform future planning and potential expansion of similar services across Yokohama.
While specific details regarding the exact three districts where the “Odekake Shuttle” will commence operations are anticipated to be released shortly, the initiative underscores Yokohama City’s forward-thinking vision for public transportation. The program aims to create a more responsive and resident-centric mobility system, ensuring that all members of the community can easily and comfortably access the services and amenities they need.
Yokohama City continues to invest in innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its dynamic population, and the expansion of the “Odekake Shuttle” service is a testament to this ongoing commitment. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the launch dates and specific service areas for this promising new transportation option.
【記者発表】地域公共交通を「増やす」を加速！ 8月から新たに3地区で「おでかけシャトル」（ワゴン型バス）の実証運行をスタートします!!
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横浜市 published ‘【記者発表】地域公共交通を「増やす」を加速！ 8月から新たに3地区で「おでかけシャトル」（ワゴン型バス）の実証運行をスタートします!!’ at 2025-07-25 01:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.