When the Toyota Hiace first shown up in the market it was 1967, more than 44 years ago in Japan, the expectations was never a van that would span generations. Today, it’s still going strong and on its 5th generation. It is so popular; it has become the number 1 van most sought after in Japan. Not many used Toyota Hiace van for sale can be found sitting in an auction house or car lot for long. The resale value of the used Toyota Hiace van is such that it’s still a good investment as a second hand unit.

On its first run in 1967, the Hiace was used as a commuter and delivery van. There was even a Hiace Commercial that was converted into a camper. It’s rare to find a 60s model today because most of the used 1960s models were shipped to Africa and other parts of Asia where maintenance was not properly observed.

By 1977 a new generation of Hiace vans was introduced. There was a choice between diesel and gas and it had a longer wheel base. The ride was enhanced and became less bumpy. By 1980s, the 3rd generation was released. It had to face stiff competition with the Toyoace truck. This was the last hurrah for the Hiace pick-up van which was discontinued.

By the end of the 1980s, the 4th generation was launched as a wagon with high roof and extended wheelbase. The choices in models became even more aggressive with a 2.0 to 3.0 liter turbo engine, gas or diesel. The 4WD was also introduced but on a partial mode. The Granvia was launched in 1995 but only for the Japanese market. It was to be the jump off point for the MPV from Hiace and introduced the 5th generation.

The 5th generation came into the spotlight around 2004 with the “Grand Cabin” concept. The gear shift was transferred to the dash board and there were 4-speed, 5-speed, and automatic transmission models. It still is ranked high as a van easy to steal because it does not come with an immobilizer and it is very easy to find a buyer for a Hiace or sell for parts. Thus, buyers are advised to get some kind of anti-theft device to protect their investment.

The Japanese used bus for sale is not just bought in Japan or Asia, but you can spot one in Russia, Africa, the United States, and Europe. There’s no logical reason not to buy a Japanese used bus for sale if it is well-maintained and in mint condition.

Traveling at night in Japan is much safer than in most other countries. Not only are the drivers more cautious, the buses are in tip top condition. There are several reasons why people trust bus drivers at night in Japan. Aside from the innate discipline and respect for others, Japanese people, no matter what their job is, take great pride in doing them properly. Their honor system is amazing and unlike anywhere else in the world.

In other parts of Asia, bus drivers think they own the ride based on their bus size. Just trying traveling at night or early morning in Manila. The main highway in the city is a virtual race trace for buses. They take all the lanes and try to beat each other in some kind of imagined race. It’s horrific and incredible that no major accident has happened yet. Other parts of Asia, you will experience similar disregard for passengers and other vehicles on the road. But Japan, it’s very civilized and organized.

It doesn’t happen only in Asia. Just last week a drunk woman rode a night bus in England and began attacking passengers. It was vicious and uncontrollable. Her choice of weapon was her stiletto shoes which she tried to stab the man who tried to talk to her. When the heels didn’t work, she began to throw punches and shout countless curse words. She did get caught and was charged with assault.

Usually if a Japanese is depressed or violent, they turn inward. There are many cases of suicide because of the perception the person has that he or she failed to honor a job, a family, or a belief.

Thus, go ahead and take a bus ride at night. The buses are comfortable with just the right amount of lighting. Buses do tend to break every 3 hours to allow passengers to stretch their feet, relieve themselves, or buy something to eat. You may have to bring a travel book to help you communicate in Japanese because most local buses don’t have English signage. That being said, buses in Japan are much like your regular Greyhound buses – on time and driven well.