47 people injured in tour bus collision on Tokyo expressway, 1 S'porean on board but confirmed safe

47 people, mostly foreign nationals, were injured after two tour buses travelling together from Japan's JR Tokyo Station to Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture collided with each other.

The incident occurred near the mouth of the Kobotoke Tunnel on the Chuo Expressway in Hachioji.

Police believe that the buses, operated by the same company, kept starting and stopping due to traffic, and the incident occurred when a bus driver rear-ended the other bus after failing to notice the latter had stopped, reported Kyodo News.

Travel agency KKday, which had 12 customers onboard the rear-ended bus, confirmed with Mothership that at least one Singaporean was involved in the collision but was confirmed to be safe.

No life-threatening injuries

“The tour has been immediately stopped, and all 12 KKday customers were taken to the hospital for medical checks,” the agency said, adding that no one was seriously injured.

It explained that the bus that was rear-ended was carrying not just passengers from KKday but also from other travel platforms and agencies.

None of the passengers had "life-threatening injuries" following the collision, Kyodo News reported.

Malaysia's Foreign Ministry stated that five Malaysians suffered minor injuries and have received treatment.

KKday said it has also helped customers return to their hotels and is providing support with insurance claims, adding that affected customers will be offered full refunds.

The bus supplier involved meets local safety regulations, and an official accident report will be provided, the agency added.

Top photo from Kyodo News