3 weeks ago
177
Taking the public bus to Johor Bahru
I’ll admit it – I’m a passenger princess. I can’t drive to save my life. But does that mean I can’t join every other Singaporean driving across the border to JB for the weekend? Heck nah. The lovely city across the strait is well worth figuring out how to get to Johor Bahru by bus.
If you’re a fellow cheapo, here’s how to make the trip across the Causeway for under $2, so you can go as often as your heart – and wallet – desires. Believe it or not, taking the Singapore public bus is the most cost-effective way to get to Johor Bahru, and we’ll show you exactly how to do it.
Is it better to take the train or bus to JB?
| Feature | Train (KTM Shuttle Tebrau) | Bus (SBS/SMRT Public Buses) |
| Cost (one-way) | ~S$5 | ~S$1.20–S$1.90 |
| Booking method | Online booking in advance (12 weeks out) | No booking needed – tap with EZ-Link or SimplyGo |
| Frequency | Every 30–60 minutes | Every 2–15 minutes depending on route/time |
| Travel time (SG → JB) | ~5 minutes (train) + customs time | ~30–60 mins (including customs and potential traffic) |
| Customs clearance | Done before boarding (SG side) | Must alight twice – at SG and JB checkpoints |
| Queue/Crowds | Shorter queues if pre-booked | Can get crowded, especially weekends/peak hours |
| Best for | Those who plan ahead | Spontaneous travellers, budget-conscious folks |
While the KTM Shuttle Tebrau train is commonly said to be the “best&rdq...
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