How to get to and around Johor Bahru

Whether you’re travelling from Singapore to Johor Bahru (JB) or from other parts of Malaysia, JB is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. This guide will break down all the steps, tips, and FAQs to help you get to JB with ease. Here’s how you can get here:

Getting to Johor by Plane

If you’re travelling from other parts of Malaysia or internationally, the closest airport to Johor Bahru is Senai International Airport (JHB). It’s located about 30km from the city centre and is well-connected with domestic flights and selected international routes.

From Airport to the City

• By taxi: The easiest way to get from Senai Airport to Johor Bahru is by taxi (30mins). Taxis are available at the arrivals terminal. Purchase a taxi coupon from the counter right in front of the Aeromall main entrance.
• By airport shuttle bus: Alternatively, you can take the AA1, a Airport Shuttle Bus (Causeway Link white bus) to JB Sentral which takes 45mins. Purchase bus tickets from the Causeway Link ticket counter located inside the Aeromall or online.
• By private shared bus transfers: For those seeking convenience, private shared bus transfers are available, connecting Senai Airport to the city (and back). Tickets can be purchased here for a seamless travel experience.

Getting to Johor by Car

How to go to JB from Singapore by Car

• Via Woodlands Causeway: The Woodlands Causeway is the primary road link between Singapore and Johor Bahru. After crossing immigration, you’ll enter directly into Johor Bahru. Do note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your trip accordingly.
• Via Tuas Second Link: The Tuas Second Link is an alternative route with typically less congestion. After crossing, you’ll enter Johor via the western part of the city, closer to the Gelang Patah area.
  
  If you prefer not to drive in with your own vehicle, you can also opt for private vehicle charter from Singapore into Johor Bahru.

How to go to JB from Other Parts of Malaysia by Car

Johor Bahru is well-connected by major highways like the North-South Expressway (E2). Just follow the signs to Johor Bahru, and you’ll be in the city in no time.

Getting to Johor by Bus

How to go to JB from Singapore by Bus

Traveling from Singapore to JB by bus is convenient and budget-friendly, with multiple options and checkpoints to consider. Numerous bus companies offer direct services from various locations in Singapore, including Newton Circus, Queen Street Terminal, Kranji MRT Station, and Jurong East, to Johor Bahru. All buses make a stop either at Woodlands Checkpoint or Tuas Second Link for passengers to clear Singapore immigration. After clearing immigration, passengers can reboard the bus to continue the journey to the CIQ Complex for Malaysian customs. 

• Causeway Link buses
  • CW 1 from Kranji MRT Station (via Woodlands)
  • Cw 2 from Queen Street Terminal (via Woodlands)
  • CW 3 and CW 4 from Jurong Town Hall Bus Interchange (via Tuas)
  • CW 5 from Newton Circus (via Woodlands)
  • CW 7 from opposite Tuas Link MRT Station (via Tuas)
• SBSTransit buses
  • 170 and 170X from Kranji MRT Station (via Woodlands)
  • 160 from Jurong Town Hall Bus Interchange (passes by Kranji MRT Station; via Woodlands)
• SMRT bus
  • 950 from Marsiling MRT Station (via Woodlands)

How to go to JB from Other Parts of Malaysia by Bus

Johor Bahru is also accessible by long-distance buses from cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca. These buses generally arrive at Johor Larkin Bus Terminal (or JB Larkin Sentral), about 20 minutes away from JB city center.

Getting to Johor by Taxi

How to go to JB from Singapore by Taxi

You can take a licensed taxi directly from Singapore to Johor Bahru. These taxis are allowed to cross the border and will drop you off at your desired location in the city. Grab a taxi from Ban San Street taxi stand.

Getting to Johor by Train

How to go to JB from Singapore by Train

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau operates between Woodlands in Singapore and JB Sentral in Johor Bahru, with the journey taking just about 5 minutes. Tickets can be booked online in advance, ensuring a hassle-free trip across the border. And the cool thing is, you will cross both countries’ immigration under the same roof!

How to go to JB from Other Parts of Malaysia by Train

KTM’s Intercity and ETS services connect major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang to Johor Bahru, with routes offering a relaxing journey through picturesque landscapes. The final stop, JB Sentral, places you right in the heart of the city, providing easy access to local attractions and transport links. Tickets can be conveniently booked online, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Getting Around Johor Bahru

Navigating Johor Bahru is easy with several convenient transportation options:

• Grab: Ride-hailing with Grab is a popular choice, offering quick and reliable service across the city. Simply book a ride through the app and enjoy the convenience of door-to-door transportation.
• Taxis: Local taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or at taxi stands near major shopping areas and hotels. Fares are typically metered, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
• Buses: Johor Bahru’s public bus system covers most parts of the city by various operators. Buses are an affordable way to get around, though they may take longer due to frequent stops. Most bus routes originate from JB Sentral and Larkin Bus Terminal. For more information, you can visit BusInterchange.net.
• Car Rental: For greater flexibility, consider renting a car. Car rental services are available throughout Johor Bahru, providing an ideal option if you plan to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Important Travel Tips

Required Documents

• Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport and necessary documents for immigration checks.
• Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP): For those driving, a Vehicle Entry Permit is required. Apply via the VEP-JPJ portal before your trip. Learn how you can apply for VEP right here.
• Touch ‘n Go Card: This card can be used for highway tolls, public transport, cashless payment and more while in JB.

Prohibited Activities

Photography or videography is prohibited at immigration checkpoints, and travellers must carry all their luggage through customs.

Money-Saving Tips

• ManjaLink Card: Favoured by frequent travellers to save on bus fares. It offers discounts on Causeway Link buses.
• Wise or YouTrip: Sign up for either multi-currency digital wallet to exchange Malaysian ringgit at the mid-market rate. Both allow you to top up your Touch ‘n Go app by transferring ringgit directly into it.

FAQs: How to go to Johor Bahru from Singapore

• What is the best way to get to Johor Bahru from Singapore?
  Travelling by bus is the most affordable and convenient option. Choose either the Woodlands or Tuas checkpoints based on your destination within JB.
• What documents do I need to bring to Johor Bahru?
  You’ll need a valid passport. If driving, ensure you have an updated Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and vehicle insurance. For a smooth journey, consider having a Touch ‘N Go card for tolls and local payments.
• Can I use my Singapore credit cards in Johor Bahru?
  Most major credit cards are accepted in JB (do remember to activate for overseas use), though carrying some Malaysian ringgit for smaller transactions is recommended. Touch ‘N Go app for cashless payment is widely accepted across small businesses and can come in handy for places that do not accept credit cards.
• Is it easy to drive from Singapore to Johor Bahru?
  Yes, many travellers opt to drive for flexibility, but you’ll need a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). Be prepared for longer wait times at checkpoints during peak hours. Or better yet, check out Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints live cameras before heading out.