Hongu area has a new ride-share program called “EVENING RIDE” providing transport to village onsen areas and potentially alleviating congested buses in peak seasons.
This service has been provided through a local Non-Profit Organization since November 2025.
Service Details
Hours: 17:00 and 20:30
Maximum number of riders: 3 people
Area: Hongu only
Request: QR code on poster at key pick-up locations
Confirmation: By email
Payment: Cash only on-site
Requests for the services are made by scanning with a smartphone a QR code on posters located in key locations, and then registering the request in either English or Japanese online. Potential users must activate their GPS on their phone.
Areas of Service:
Hosshinmon-oji
Fushiogami-oji
Hongu Taisha-mae bus stop (in front of the Kumano Hongu Heritage Center)
Central Hongu town
Yunomine Onsen
Kawayu Onsen
Watarase Onsen.
NOTE: Service is NOT available for Kii-Tanabe, Chikatsuyu, Shingu, or Koguchi.
Along with location, users must provide the number of guests (up to 3 maximum), number and type of bags with them, and name during registration.
Response of whether the ride-share is available or not is sent by email soon after the request is made. If the ride-share vehicle is available, response can be from 15 minutes or longer. The email will also include estimated time of arrival and estimated fare.
Pricing
Estimated prices are listed on the EVENING RIDE website and on posters.
They are also given when requests are accepted via email, but final prices are confirmed onsite with the driver.
For example, Hongu Taisha-mae bus stop to Yunomine Onsen, would cost about 1,500 yen.
※ Prices are subject to change.
Advanced reservations are not possible.