Mariko Shiohata leads transport campaigning for Greenpeace in Tokyo.
The rapid aging of Japan's population is putting rural residents in a particularly difficult spot.
Ultracompacts and self-driving buses would help residents to better get around


The Japanese town of Sakai has been offering free rides on self-driving electric buses since 2020, providing a transport option for older residents. (Photo by Kei Higuchi)
Mariko Shiohata leads transport campaigning for Greenpeace in Tokyo.
The rapid aging of Japan's population is putting rural residents in a particularly difficult spot.