Why you need to be aware of the different vehicle types in Japan

Think you booked a 7-seater? Not so fast.

If you’ve ever booked a “7-seater” in Japan and wondered why only six of you could fit—this article is for you. The truth is, vehicle labels here don’t always mean what they seem. 

A 10-seater might be a van, or it might be a bus. Luggage can mean folding down seats. And seat count? That usually includes the driver. 

For travelers trying to organise airport transfers, family trips, or group tours, these quirks can get confusing fast. That’s why understanding the basics—and booking with the right provider—makes all the difference. 

Keep reading, as we’re breaking it all down before you book.

Capacity isn’t always what it seems

In Japan, vehicle sizing isn’t just about how many seats you see. Instead, it’s about how many you can actually use. One key detail often missed? The driver counts as one of those seats. So a “7-seater” only fits six passengers. A “10-seater”? Nine. And a “14-seater” tops out at thirteen.

But that’s only part of the puzzle. In vans like the Alphard or HIACE, the back rows are often folded down to make space for suitcases. That means your seat count might drop even further. 

Planning an airport pickup for a group with lots of luggage? It’s not just about fitting people—it’s about fitting bags, too. Below, we’re spotlighting some options.

Let’s break it down further with vehicle types

7-Seater: Toyota Alphard / Vellfire

Great for couples or small families who want comfort and quiet.

The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire (watch the video here) are essentially the same vehicle, just branded differently for different dealerships. Known for their smooth ride and plush interiors, they’re often used for luxury airport transfers or city-based travel with one or two companions.

But here’s what many travelers miss: if you’re carrying large suitcases, the back row of seats is usually folded down to make room. That means you’ll typically only fit three passengers comfortably—one in the front, and two in the captain seats behind.

10-Seater: HIACE Grand Cabin

A practical, roomy option for medium groups that want to stay together.

The HIACE Grand Cabin looks like a van and drives like one—but under Japanese regulations, it’s still considered a standard vehicle (not a bus). It fits up to 9 passengers plus a driver, though space can be reduced if you’re travelling with lots of luggage.

This van is ideal for mid-sized groups: think small company outings, group tours, or multigenerational families. All seats are forward-facing, and the tall roof offers decent headroom and a more spacious feel than you might expect.

14-Seater: HIACE Commuter

Looks like a van, operates like a bus.

It might look nearly identical to the Grand Cabin, but the HIACE Commuter is a bus by law, simply because it has more than 10 seats. Watch the video here. That means it follows stricter regulations, offering added peace of mind for guests.

Here’s the trade-off: when traveling with luggage, the rear four seats usually need to be folded up to make space. This brings capacity down to 9 passengers plus the driver—same as the Grand Cabin, but with bus-grade safety and oversight.

Microbus & Large Motorcoach

When comfort and capacity are equally important.

When you’re traveling with a bigger group—or need more space and structure—you’ll want to look for these two types of buses: microbuses and full-size motorcoaches.

Microbuses can accommodate up to 15 guests with luggage, while large coaches fit up to 45. These vehicles are often used for educational trips, company retreats, and extended family groups who want to move as one. Watch the video of a microbus here.

All come equipped with professional drivers, spacious seating, luggage storage, and advanced safety tech—ideal for longer journeys or high-capacity days.

The unseen layer of safety

In Japan, it’s not the size of the vehicle that defines a bus, it’s the number of seats. Any vehicle with more than 10 seats is classified as a bus under national law, even if it looks like a regular van. That classification brings with it a much higher standard of oversight.

Bus operators are subject to quarterly inspections, plus an extensive annual check that goes beyond standard roadworthiness. Before each departure, a certified vehicle inspection officer completes a final safety review. Vehicles must also be fully insured, and drivers are required to hold a professional Class 2 license.

These regulations might not be visible to passengers, but they’re designed to ensure every journey is safe, smooth, and properly managed. For anyone booking a vehicle in Japan, especially with a larger group, it’s worth understanding the added peace of mind that comes with riding in a fully regulated bus.

Driver standards: what to expect on the road

Professional drivers in Japan—especially those operating buses or private group transport—are held to high standards of training and conduct. Each driver must pass a physical examination at the start of their shift, complete extensive on-the-road training (often 20+ hours), and hold a valid Class 2 license for larger vehicles.

In addition to qualifications, technology plays a key role. Vehicles are commonly fitted with GPS, drive recorders, and digital tachographs to monitor driver performance, ensure route accuracy, and flag any unsafe behavior. Ongoing training is also the norm, with regular seminars covering everything from snow-driving safety to vehicle upkeep.

The result? A driving experience that’s not just efficient, but carefully managed behind the scenes, so passengers can feel safe, supported, and well looked after.

Enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey with TokudAw

Vehicle types in Japan can be a little misleading if you’re unfamiliar with the system. Seat counts include the driver, luggage can reduce available space, and anything over 10 seats is legally a bus—regardless of what it looks like. These details are important, especially when travelling with a group or coordinating airport transfers.

TokudAw’s in-house transportation fleet, Japan Private Drivers (a fleet of HIACE vans available in/out of Tokyo) and operates under Japan’s official bus regulations. That means regular inspections, licensed drivers, and clear safety protocols. If you’re planning a trip and want help choosing the right setup, we’ll walk you through the options based on your group size, route, and luggage.