How to take a taxi in Japan and pay for it

When traveling to Japan, if you travel independently, you will definitely encounter the problem of taking a car. Whether you take the bus or call a taxi yourself, you need to know the relevant information in advance. If so, there is information on strategies for Japanese tourists under the taxi.

: How to take a taxi

1. Find a taxi

Some taxis will stop near hotels and stations. The more common way is to stand on the roadside and wave.

If the car roof lights up, it means the car is empty. If the taxi does not light up, it means there are guests.

Getting in the car

After parking, the door of the back seat of the taxi will open and close automatically. You don't need to turn it on or off yourself. If you have large luggage, ask the driver to open the suitcase.

3. Tell the driver your destination

All taxi drivers in Japan are very polite, but because they are all experienced drivers, few of them can speak English. Therefore, it is best to convey the meaning by showing a tourist map or writing the address in Japanese beforehand. Please note that for safety reasons please fasten your seat belt once seated.

4. What if you want to stop the car halfway?

When you want to go to a convenience store on the road, or when you want to go to a convenience store, tell the driver. They will park nearby. Even though it's nearby, I really make it a point to park "not far away" because parking is not allowed in many places. Note that parking is also charged.

Payment

The meter will display the yen to be paid. There is nothing dishonest in Japan, such as tampering with electricity meters. At the same time, there is no need to tip the driver.

In Tokyo (Tokyo 23 Ward, Takeno City, Mitaka), the first ride (1km) is 410 yen, and an additional 80 yen is added for every 237m. The price of the first ride is posted on the back door of the taxi and inside the vehicle. Please check before taking a taxi.

Note that if you work late at night or early in the morning (22:00~5:00 am), the price will increase by 20%.

Most taxis accept credit cards and Xigua cards, but some do not. This information is also displayed in the rear seat windows. Please make sure there is no credit card or watermelon card on the bus when you get on the bus.

6. Get off the bus after payment is completed.

Be careful not to forget your belongings when getting off the bus. Please also keep the receipt, which contains the taxi company name, phone number and other information. In case there is anything forgotten, you can call us for consultation.

When you get off the bus, say "Ariado" to the driver and teacher.

How to use APP to call a taxi in Japan

If you feel that there is no taxi nearby, you can call the taxi company to call a taxi. But in most cases, Japanese is required. Without Japanese, it is difficult to communicate smoothly.

So here’s how to call a taxi using the app.

Comfortable Uber

Uber, but when it can navigate directly to the Uber app or Google Maps, you will be prompted to use Uber below.

Uber only takes credit card payments.

Fees vary based on the type of car you choose. Basically, it costs 309~329 yen per kilometer. Prices vary based on starting price and time spent. If you are worried, you can use the official website fare estimator to calculate your budget in advance.

Uber in Japan are all high-end cars and are recommended for tourists who like comfort.

Convenient Money LINE Taxi

LINETAXI is a taxi service provided by the social software LINE.

Use LINE to request a ride easily and simply. The waiting time will also be displayed, so friends who like efficiency can make better use of their time.

On the basis of the usual taxi fare, additional transportation fees (welcome materials) stipulated by each taxi company will be paid. Only payment by line is supported, cash payment is not supported. It can be used throughout Japan. Friends who are accustomed to using LINE can try it.