Johor Bahru Johor, Malaysia Travel Guide
Johor Bahru's public transportation system mainly relies on buses. The Bas Muafakat Johor (BMJ) network has no-cost bus services for Malaysian citizens and permanent residents on specific routes. For tourists, a small fare applies, making it a budget-friendly option.
Causeway Link (Handal Indah) is a major bus operator. It has an extensive network covering Johor Bahru city, Iskandar Puteri, and offers popular cross-border services to Singapore. Causeway Link buses connect to attractions and shopping malls throughout the city.
Buses generally operate from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (typically around 11:30 PM).
Frequency varies by route. High-traffic areas or popular destinations see higher frequency, notably at busy times. Less residential zones have longer intervals.
Public buses generally have limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges, with few features like ramps or dedicated wheelchair space.
Licensed taxis are typically red plus white or red and blue. Insist on using the meter for fair pricing.
Hail taxis on the street or find them at designated stands at malls, terminals, and attractions. Cash is the main payment method.
Grab is the dominant ride-sharing app in Malaysia, offering convenience, upfront fare transparency, and safety features.
Driver details, vehicle info, GPS tracking, and journey sharing options. Cashless or cash payments are available. Use Grab for better transport experiences.
For car rental, requirements usually include a minimum age (typically 21-23), a valid national driving license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
The city center, around Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, JB Sentral, and City Square, is quite walkable. Danga Bay also features pleasant pedestrian paths.
Outside concentrated areas, pedestrian infrastructure can be inconsistent, with uneven pavements or busy roads lacking sidewalks.
Bicycle infrastructure is still restricted. Dedicated bicycle lanes are not widespread, and cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic.
Johor Bahru offers some specialized transportation options, though they are not as varied as in some other major tourist cities.
Explore Jalan Tan Hiok Nee on foot. This heritage street has a concentration of historic structures, cafes, and street art within a walkable area.
Ideal for self-guided tours.
Recreational cycling is better confined to parks or designated paths like Danga Bay, due to heavy city traffic and absence of dedicated lanes.
Exercise caution on roads.
Major highways and busy multi-lane roads are generally not safe or pleasant for walking or cycling due to fast-moving traffic.
Use ride-sharing for longer distances.
For efficient navigation using public buses, consult Google Maps for route planning; it often integrates public bus routes and timings.
Become acquainted with the main bus hubs, like JB Sentral and Larkin Sentral, as starting points for your explorations.
