Cabs are a convenient and comfortable means of transportation for foreign visitors to Japan.
Recently, payment methods have become more convenient with the introduction of cashless payment methods.
Although they have become easier to use, cabs in Japan have some characteristics that differ from those in other countries. This article describes how to use cabs in Japan and their prices. Let’s look together at the points you should know when using cabs in Japan.
How to Take a Taxi in Japan
Japanese cabs have a beautiful appearance and are courteously served by well-dressed drivers. The driver’s white gloves are impressive.
You can spend the time to get to your destination in a clean and comfortable environment.
1. how to use a cab
There are three ways to use a cab in Japan
Calling a cab by phone or using an app: Call a cab company or use a dedicated app.
Stop a cab in motion: Raise your hand to a cab in motion and ask it to stop.
Boarding a cab from a cab stand：Take a taxi from a cab stand at a station or other location.
Cabs are usually available at stations and commercial facilities. Cab stands are located at major train stations and tourist attractions, and you can board a cab by waiting in line.
If you are taking a cab from your hotel, you can call the cab company directly and ask them to pick you up. You can also ask the front desk of the hotel to arrange a cab for you.
You can also use a reservation app to reserve a cab in advance.
When using a cab running in town, it is recommended to raise your hand early as they cannot stop at short notice.
Places where cabs are not allowed to board or alight
Cabs are not allowed to stop at places where they feel it is unsafe to do so. Here is a partial list.
- Areas where parking is prohibited
- Intersections and pedestrian crossings (within a 5-meter radius)
- Inside tunnels
- Near the top of a hill
Please understand that even if you say to a cab driver, “Stop here,” he/she cannot stop abruptly. Stop at a position where you can safely get in and out of the vehicle.
Cab Prices
Cab prices in Japan are calculated based on distance and time. A certain fare is set for a certain distance and time as a starting fare, and an additional fare based on distance and time is charged if the distance or time exceeds that amount.
The basic fare for a normal ride is the initial fare + additional fare + combined time and distance fare.
Here is a brief explanation. *Fares and distances vary by region.
Starting fare: The minimum fare to be paid when boarding a cab.The fare is set for the distance from the point of entry to a predetermined distance, such as 100 yen per kilometer.
countable fare：Fare is added according to the distance covered when the initial fare is exceeded.The fare is determined by the distance traveled, such as 100 meters/100 yen.
Time-and-distance fare: If the cab is traveling below a certain speed, the time required for transportation is converted into distance. This is the reason why the fare increases when there is traffic congestion.
Cab rides may incur a surcharge.
Late night and early morning surcharge: A 20% surcharge will be added to cab fares between 10 PM and 5 AM.
Expressway toll: If traveling on an expressway, tolls are added to the fare.
Pick-up fee: A fee is charged if the taxi picks you up at a designated location.
Waiting charge: A charge incurred when a cab driver waits for an extended period of time for his/her own convenience after having been picked up by a cab driver.
Cab fares in Japan are among the most expensive in the world. Please note that a long-distance trip can cost several thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen.
3. points to keep in mind when using cabs
When using a cab in Japan, it is important to pay attention to the following points.
- At cab stands, take the first car you see.
- Do not stop the cab before the person waiting for you.
- Do not park your cab in areas with heavy traffic.
- Be considerate to other passengers when eating and drinking inside the taxi.
- Do not leave dirty luggage on the seat.
If you get into trouble because of bad manners, it will ruin your enjoyable trip.When using a cab, be considerate of the driver and other passengers.
From boarding to disembarking the cab
Riding a cab is easy.
Get in the cab.
Tell the driver where you are going.
When you arrive at your destination, pay and get off the taxi.
Boarding
Taxis generally use the back seat. The rear seat door opens automatically. If you wish to sit in the front seat, ask the driver for permission in advance or confirm that it is available.
Large luggage can be placed in the trunk.
Tell the driver where you are going. Since many drivers do not speak English, showing a map or photo of your destination and explaining it to them or screenshotting the Japanese words with the translator function will help them to accurately convey your destination.
Payment
Many Japanese cabs accept credit cards and electronic money. However, some cabs only accept cash payment. It is recommended that you check when you board the taxi.
Method of Payment
- Cash
- Credit card
- Electronic money, QR code payment
- Cab ticket
- App payment
Even if you cannot communicate through the language, be sure to tell them where you are going.
Before taking a cab, make your destination clear and translate it into Japanese. Show a screenshot or memo and tell the driver where you are going.
If you wish to pay in a form other than cash, confirm this at the time of boarding. Prevent problems at the time of payment in advance.
Summary.
Cabs in Japan are an accurate and comfortable means of transportation, but they have characteristics that differ from those in other countries. When using a cab, it is important to wait at the dedicated boarding area and to understand how to calculate the price.
Also, pay attention to how the door opens and the order in which you board. Enjoy a more comfortable trip by using Japanese cabs.
