Record tourist numbers in Japan are clogging public transport in Kyoto

It is not uncommon in Kyoto these days for residents to have to wait for three or four full buses to pass before they can board themselves. Once on board, they often cannot get a seat and have to fight for space, not only with passengers but also with large suitcases.

The problem is worsening as the number of tourists increases rapidly, putting severe strain on the ancient Japanese city’s transportation infrastructure. Public anger is so acute that it helped Kyoto’s new mayor, whose campaign promised to combat the excesses of tourism, win February’s elections.