Taxi Japan - everything you need to know about taxis in the land of the rising sun
- Damian Brzeski
- Jul 19
- 14 min read
Can a taxi be a luxury, a cultural lesson, and a technological marvel all rolled into one? In Japan, absolutely.
From automatic doors, impeccable cleanliness and elegant drivers, to no tips and digital apps, a Japanese taxi is an experience that surprises at every turn.
Before you wave your hand on the street in Tokyo or Kyoto, check what you need to know to avoid overpaying and making a mistake.
First Encounter with a Japanese Taxi
A trip to Japan is a fascinating clash of tradition and technology. Even a Japanese taxi is more than just a means of transportation. It's a living symbol of omotenashi —their unique philosophy of hospitality, which prioritizes your comfort by anticipating your every need.
Sounds tempting, right?
This guide is your gateway to the world of Japanese taxis. I'll show you how to recognize them on the crowded streets of Tokyo, how to avoid being surprised by the price, and learn local etiquette.
You'll discover why tipping isn't allowed in Japan, why you shouldn't open doors yourself, and how apps like Uber and GO are changing the market.
It's worth remembering: in Poland, a taxi is often a "regular" transportation option. In Japan? Due to its high cost and impeccable standard , it's a premium service.
It's often considered a luxury or a last resort. Understanding this context is key to stress-free travel in Japan.
This short guide will equip you with the knowledge to avoid unnecessary cultural mishaps and expenses, and the trip itself will become part of your unforgettable Japanese adventure!
How to Recognize a Japanese Taxi and What to Expect?
Your first encounter with a Japanese taxi can be a bit of a surprise. They look, drive, and operate differently than the ones we're used to. But don't worry, learning their secrets is the first step to navigating Japanese streets with confidence!
Exterior of Taxis in Japan
For years, Japanese streets have been dominated by slightly boxy yet charming sedans: the Toyota Crown Comfort and the Nissan Cedric . Their classic design and reliability have made them the epitome of taxis. Always impeccably clean and shiny—a paragon of professionalism!
Today, especially in Tokyo, you will increasingly see their modern successor: the Toyota JPN Taxi .
Introduced in 2017, with its distinctive, large radiator grille, it combines tradition with modernity. It's more spacious, wheelchair-friendly, and eco-friendly (LPG hybrid). Completely professional, nothing more, nothing less!
Something that immediately catches the eye and is downright mesmerizing is... the side mirrors! In Japanese taxis, they're mounted on the front fenders, not the doors.
It's not just a retro touch – it's also a practical solution that expands the driver's field of vision in tight streets. Clever, right?
Signage You Need to Know – The Key to Legality and Accessibility
Want to avoid misunderstandings and get a legal taxi? It's easy, you just need to know a few tricks!
Taxi License Plates: Green Trust Mark
The most important signal? Green license plates with white characters. Only legal, commercial vehicles have them! Private cars have white plates with green characters (these are the famous "shirotaku," or "white taxis," that we avoid like the plague). Remember this!
Windshield and Roof Signals: How to Read Taxi Availability?
The accessibility system may seem confusing at first, but it's actually quite simple. Look at the illuminated plaque on the dashboard, visible through the passenger-side windshield:
🔴 The red lettering 空車 (kūsha) means "free" – feel free to wave!
❎ A green (or other) sign, most often 賃走 (chinsō) , means "busy" – such a taxi will not stop.
At night, a glowing "roof light" on the roof also signals that the taxi is available. But it's the Japanese characters on the dashboard that are the ultimate, reliable guide!
Interior: Capsule of Cleanliness and Professionalism
Getting into a Japanese taxi is like stepping into another reality. What would be a luxury here is an absolute norm. Seats and headrests?
Covered in pristine, white covers —often lace! It's not just aesthetics; it's a symbol of hygiene and passenger care. The entire interior is sparkling clean, with no odors, no trash. You could eat off the floor, seriously!
And the driver? He's usually an older, distinguished gentleman, dressed in an impeccable suit and tie, often even wearing white gloves and a chauffeur's hat . This isn't a disguise; it's a sign of pride and professionalism! The drivers are extremely polite, though rather taciturn, and their attitude is simply one of pure respect for the customer.
All these details—the gleaming bodywork, the snow-white seat covers, the elegant chauffeur—combine into a cohesive whole. It's a living manifestation of the Japanese philosophy of hospitality, or omotenashi .
It is about selfless service to the guest, anticipating their needs and ensuring their absolute comfort.
Cleanliness? Is it respect! Attire? Professionalism! Automatic doors (more on those in a moment!)? It's this care for you! Understanding this allows you to appreciate why a Japanese taxi, despite its price, is an experience worth experiencing, not just a simple ride.
Japanese Etiquette and Customs: How to Be a Model Passenger
Taking a taxi in Japan isn't just about getting there, it's also about... culture! Knowing a few simple rules will make you feel more confident, help you avoid awkward situations, and help you easily blend in with local customs. Ready for a quick lesson?
Automatic Doors and the Art of Entry
This is the most important and surprising rule for us Europeans: the left rear door opens and closes… automatically! The driver controls it. You simply approach the taxi and wait patiently for it to open.
Never, under any circumstances, attempt to force them open or close them after the ride! This is not only rude, but also risks damage. The other doors function normally. Get in, get out, and the driver will take care of the rest!
Communication with the Driver: How to Overcome the Language Barrier?
Japanese taxi drivers rarely speak English. The key to success? Preparation! It's best to have your destination address written down in Japanese. Show it on your phone or print it out—hotel staff will be happy to help!
Don't have a Japanese address? Show your destination on your phone's map , zooming in so the driver can easily find it. And if you want to completely avoid the language barrier, try apps like GO, Uber, or DiDi . You enter your destination digitally, and the driver receives it directly on the terminal. Simple and effective!
Tipping Culture in Japan: Why "Arigatō" Is Enough
This is absolutely essential! Tipping is not allowed in Japan – not in taxis, not in restaurants, not anywhere else. Service is, by definition, provided to the highest standard, and the cost of tipping fully covers the bill.
Attempting to offer additional money will be met with a polite but firm refusal. Furthermore, it may embarrass the driver and even be perceived as… insulting. You're implying that the payment was too low!
The best and only expected way to express gratitude is with a sincere thank you. A slight bow and a heartfelt "arigatō gozaimasu" (thank you very much) as you disembark are sufficient. That's it!
Cultural Differences: Japan vs. Poland in a Nutshell
To help you fully understand the specifics of Japanese taxis, I've contrasted the key differences with our Polish reality. It's like two different worlds!
Characteristic | Taxi in Japan | Taxi in Poland |
Tips | Unacceptable, may be tactless. | Widely expected, usually around 10%. |
Passenger Door | Rear left – automatically opens and closes. | Manually opened and closed by the passenger. |
Cleanliness/Condition | Impeccable cleanliness and perfect condition are standard. | Standard varied. |
Formality | High: driver in a suit, politeness, distance. | Mostly informal, casual atmosphere. |
Payments | Cash, cards, IC cards, apps. | Cards and apps dominate, cash is accepted. |
Conversation | Minimal, formal and polite. | Often casual chat. |
Marking | Strictly regulated: green plates, signs on the windshield. | Regulated, but less stringent and uniform. |
Remember, Japanese taxi etiquette is no accident. It reflects broader societal values, such as harmony (wa) , deep respect, and avoiding causing trouble.
Automatic doors are convenient for you. No tips? It's pride in a job well done. Silence? Respect for private space .
Unlike our more transactional approach, here you're simply a guest who respectfully accepts the service offered. It's a true lesson in Japanese culture!
How Does the Japanese Taxis Fare System Work?
The taxi fare system in Japan is precise, though it may seem complicated to a tourist. Understanding its structure will help you estimate costs and avoid financial surprises!
Tariff Structure: From Initial Fee to Surcharges
Every taxi ride in Japan begins with an initial fare, commonly known as a "door slam," covering a short distance. Beyond that, the taximeter charges a fee for the distance traveled or time spent in traffic or at a standstill.
Initial Fee (Kihon Ryōkin): In the central 23 wards of Tokyo it is 500 JPY for the first 1,096 km .
Exchange rate: 500 JPY≈3.00 EUR≈13.00 PLN (remember, exchange rates fluctuate!). Short trips are therefore relatively expensive.
Distance Fee: After the initial distance, the meter charges 100 JPY for every additional 255 meters .
Currency exchange rate: 100 JPY≈0.60 EUR≈2.60 PLN.
Time and Distance Fee: When the taxi is traveling slower than 10 km/h or is stationary, the meter charges 100 JPY for every 95 seconds (1 min 35 sec).
Exchange rate: 100 JPY≈0.60 EUR≈2.60 PLN. This is important in traffic jams!
Night Surcharge: Between 10pm and 5am, a 20% surcharge is added to the total amount.
Other Fees:
For calling: Ordering a taxi by phone/app – depends on the company (e.g. 500 JPY).
Tolls : If your route includes toll roads, the cost is added. The driver usually asks for permission.
Long-haul discount: In Tokyo, fares over 9,000 JPY receive a 10% discount on the excess.
Fee Component | Stawka (Tokyo, 23 districts) |
Base Fare | 500 JPY for the first 1,096 km |
Distance Fee (Additional Fare) | 100 JPY for every additional 255 m |
Time/Distance Fare | 100 JPY for 95 seconds (<10 km/h) |
Late Night Surcharge | +20% (22:00 - 05:00) |
Long distance discount | 10% on amounts over 9,000 JPY |
Pick-Up Fee | Depends on the company, e.g. 500 JPY |
Price Comparison: Taxis in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
The fee structure is similar everywhere, but rates vary by city, reflecting local circumstances.
Tokyo: Lower entry fare (reduced in 2017) to encourage short trips in the city center.
Osaka: One of the highest entry fees, which may be due to a different business model.
Kyoto: Moderate starting fare but lower per-kilometer rate. A nod to tourists who frequently travel between distant attractions.
City | Initial Fee (JPY) | Approximate Rate per km (JPY) | Night Surcharge |
Tokyo | 450 - 500 | 420 | 20% (22:00-05:00) |
Osaka | 680 | 400 | 20% (22:00-05:00) |
Kyoto | 490 - 500 | 320 | 20% (22:00-05:00) |
Note: The values given are indicative. The rate per km is a conversion of short-distance rates. Exchange rates are variable. (1 EUR ≈ 165 JPY, 1 PLN ≈ 38.5 JPY - rates from June 2024, may vary in the future!).
Payment Methods: Cash, Card or App?
Japanese taxis are very flexible in terms of payment – a great convenience for tourists!
Cash (Japanese Yen): Always accepted and universal. It's a good idea to carry some Japanese Yen, especially outside large cities.
Credit Cards: In large cities, most taxis accept Visa and Mastercard. Stickers on the window indicate which cards are accepted.
IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA): These prepaid transportation cards, familiar from trains, are increasingly working in taxis. Conveniently, just tap them on!
Payment via App: If you order through GO, Uber, or DiDi with a linked card, payment is automatic and cashless at the end of the ride. It's the easiest way and eliminates any language barriers!
Costs of Travel from Airports and Between Popular Tourist Attractions
After a long flight, one of the first dilemmas is getting from the airport to your hotel. In Japan, where taxis are a premium service, this decision significantly impacts your budget. Be prepared!
Taxi From Narita Airport (NRT) to the Heart of Tokyo: Is Taking a Taxi a Good Idea?
In short: probably not! Narita Airport (NRT) is located about 60-70 km from central Tokyo. A taxi ride over this distance is extremely expensive and often not the fastest, as traffic jams can be tricky.
Metered fare: A ride from Narita to Shinjuku or Shibuya is easily 31,000 to 38,000 JPY (approx. 188-230 EUR / 800-1000 PLN). That's over ten times more than the Narita Express (approx. 3,000 JPY, or approx. 18 EUR / 77 PLN)!
Fixed Rates (Flat Rate) : Companies offer fixed prices from Narita, which is more predictable but still very high. These prices range from around 19,500 JPY (approx. 118 EUR / 500 PLN) to the closest areas (e.g., Edogawa) to over 30,000 JPY (approx. 182 EUR / 770 PLN) to the western districts (e.g., Setagaya). Be aware of highway surcharges and possible night surcharges!
Recommendation: I strongly advise against taking a taxi from Narita. Instead, opt for trains (Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner) or airport buses (Limousine Bus). A taxi is only an option as a last resort, for example, for a large group with lots of luggage who are willing to pay for door-to-door comfort.
Zone / Selected Districts | Day Price (JPY) | Night Price (22:00-05:00) (JPY) |
Edogawa, Katsushika | 19,500 JPY (approx. EUR 118 / PLN 500) | 22,500 JPY (approx. EUR 136 / PLN 580) |
Chuo, Chiyoda, Taito | 24,500 JPY (approx. EUR 148 / PLN 630) | 26,000 JPY (approx. EUR 158 / PLN 670) |
Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato | 26,500 JPY (approx. EUR 160 / PLN 680) | 27,500 JPY (approx. EUR 167 / PLN 710) |
Setagaya, Suginami, Musashino | 30,000 JPY (approx. EUR 182 / PLN 770) | 32,500 JPY (approx. EUR 197 / PLN 840) |
Note: Prices do not include highway tolls.
Taxi From Haneda Airport (HND) to Tokyo: A More Convenient and Cheaper Option
Haneda Airport (HND) is a completely different story – much closer to central Tokyo (about 17 km). Here, a taxi becomes a more reasonable, though still premium, alternative.
Taximeter cost: A ride from Haneda to the city center is usually 8,000 - 10,000 JPY (approx. 48-60 EUR / 205-260 PLN).
Fixed/Flat Rates: This is a very popular option from Haneda, eliminating the stress of traffic jams. For example, to Chiyoda, it's about 6,900 JPY (approx. 42 EUR / 178 PLN), and to Shinjuku, 8,300 JPY (approx. 50 EUR / 214 PLN). Add highway tolls and a night surcharge.
Recommendation: A flat-rate taxi from Haneda is a great option, especially for a group of 3-4 people with luggage. The cost per person can be comparable to public transportation, and the comfort after the trip is invaluable!
Target District | Day Price (JPY) | Night Surcharge (22:00-05:00) (JPY) |
Chiyoda (e.g. Tokyo Station) | 6,900 JPY (approx. EUR 42 / PLN 178) | +1,400 JPY (approx. EUR 8.50 / PLN 36) |
Shibuya (e.g. Shibuya Crossing) | 7,800 JPY (approx. EUR 47 / PLN 200) | +1,400 JPY (approx. EUR 8.50 / PLN 36) |
Shinjuku (e.g. Metropolitan City Hall) | 8,300 JPY (approx. EUR 50 / PLN 214) | +1,500 JPY (approx. EUR 9 / PLN 39) |
Taito (e.g. Asakusa, Ueno Park) | 8,400 JPY (approx. EUR 51 / PLN 216) | +1,500 JPY (approx. EUR 9 / PLN 39) |
Minato (e.g. Roppongi, Tokyo Tower) | Depending on the part, approx. 6,000 - 7,500 JPY (approx. 36-45 EUR / 155-193 PLN) | Depending on the part |
Note: Prices do not include highway tolls.
Example City Routes
To better illustrate the costs, see how much you'll pay for typical city rides:
Shibuya Station → Shinjuku Station (approx. 4 km): Estimated cost is around 1,500 JPY (approx. 9 EUR / 38 PLN).
Roppongi → Shibuya (approx. 3.6 km): Estimated cost is around 1,210 JPY (approx. 7.30 EUR / 31 PLN), during the day, excluding surcharges.
It is clear that a taxi is mainly profitable for very short journeys, when comfort is a priority, or when public transport would require many transfers.
The Digital Revolution in Japanese Taxis
In the age of smartphones, ride-hailing apps are commonplace. Japan, though it values tradition, is also involved! But be warned – the way they work may surprise tourists accustomed to European standards.
Uber in Japan: Different Than You Think
For many, Uber is synonymous with a cheap "ride with a neighbor." In Japan? Forget it! Here, due to strict regulations, Uber is a platform for ordering... licensed, legal taxis .
Yes, you read that correctly. Even after the ride-hailing ban is partially lifted in April 2024, everything still has to go through taxi companies.
Advantages for tourists:
Familiar interface: Have you used Uber in Poland? The experience is identical in Japan.
No language barrier: The app works in multiple languages, and you enter your destination digitally. No more "where are you going?"
Cashless payment: The fee is charged automatically from the linked card.
Defects:
Higher price: Uber is usually more expensive than hailing a taxi on the street. There's an Uber service fee and a hailing fee.
Limited availability: The service operates mainly in major cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka), but the fleet is sometimes smaller than that of local giants.
GO: Japanese Market Leader
GO is the absolute number one taxi app in Japan! It has the widest coverage (45 of 47 prefectures) and over 80% of the market. Planning a trip throughout Japan? This app is a must-have!
Functionality for tourists:
English version: Yes, it makes life easier!
Registration for foreigners: Officially supports foreign numbers and credit cards (after changes 2023-2024).
Potential issues: Sometimes there are difficulties with SMS verification outside of Japan or with some foreign cards. It's best to try to register before your trip and complete the final setup (especially the card) after you arrive in Japan!
Key features: Cashless payments (GO Pay), pre-set destinations, ordering larger vans (GO PREMIUM) and fixed rates for airport transfers.
DiDi and Other Apps: Strong Competition
DiDi: The Chinese ride-hailing giant, a strong competitor to GO and Uber. Very tourist-friendly, with multilingual support (English, Chinese, and auto-translation for chat with the driver!).
Frequent promotions, coupons, and discounts can make travel cheaper. It's worth checking out!
Other taxi apps in Japan:
S.RIDE: Popular especially in Tokyo, known for its simple interface – order a taxi with just one swipe!
NearMe: Specializes in shared-ride (shuttle) airport transfers. It's a cheaper option than a private taxi.
Characteristic | HIM | Uber | DiDi |
Reception | The largest (45/47 prefectures) | Limited to large cities | Limited (15 prefectures), but in key cities |
English | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Registration (foreign number/card) | Officially yes, but there are problems | Yes, no problem | Yes |
Action Model | Taxi-hailing (you order a taxi) | Taxi-hailing (you order a taxi) | Taxi-hailing (you order a taxi) |
Costs | Standard tariff + call fee | Standard fare + call fee + Uber fee | Standard tariff + call fee (frequent discounts!) |
Unique Features | Highest availability, GO PREMIUM (vans) | Familiar interface, Uber Eats integration | Coupons and promotions, support for Chinese tourists |
Using apps in Japan is a bit of a paradox – they're meant to be convenient, but for the unprepared, they can be a source of frustration. Uber's different operating model, and potential problems with GO registration, require proactivity.
My strategy for you:
Install 2-3 major apps (GO, Uber, DiDi) before your trip.
Try to register , but be prepared that full activation (especially SMS verification) may require you to be in Japan.
Always have a plan B! That means cash and a physical credit card in case you have problems with your payment in the app.
Remember, these apps are primarily a convenient way to order standard, relatively expensive Japanese taxis . Nothing more, nothing less!
When is it worth choosing a train or bus?
Taking a taxi in Japan is a tool that should be used strategically. It's the best choice in the following situations:
Last mile travel : When you need to get from the train station to your hotel with heavy luggage.
Traveling in a group : When the cost of a taxi ride for 3-4 people is comparable to or slightly higher than the cost of public transport tickets.
Late night : When public transport stops running (usually between midnight and 5:00 a.m.).
Hard-to-Reach Places : When your destination is far from a train station or bus stop, which is common with some temples in Kyoto and attractions in rural areas.
In all other cases, especially when traveling longer distances, between districts of large cities or between cities, the phenomenally developed, punctual and efficient Japanese public transport (trains, subways, shinkansen) is almost always a much faster, cheaper and more efficient option.
The Golden Rules of Using Japanese Taxis
Traveling by Japanese taxi is a unique experience that, with proper preparation, can be comfortable and stress-free.
It's a lesson in culture, precision, and respect, all encapsulated in the car's gleaming bodywork. To fully enjoy this form of transportation, it's worth remembering a few key rules.
10 Golden Rules of Japanese Taxi:
Look for green plates. Legal taxis have green license plates with white characters. This is the most important indicator of a carrier's legality.
The red character 空車 is an invitation. A red illuminated 空車 (kūsha) on the windshield indicates that the taxi is free and can be hailed.
Never touch the rear left door. It opens and closes automatically, controlled by the driver. Patiently wait for the driver's reaction.
Don't tip. Tipping isn't part of Japanese culture and can be considered rude. A sincere "Arigatō gozaimasu" is the best way to say thank you.
Have the address handy. Have your destination address written down in Japanese or on a map to avoid communication problems.
Be careful with the cost of transportation from Narita Airport. Taxi travel from NRT to Tokyo is extremely expensive. Trains and buses are much better options.
Be prepared to accept various payment methods. Bring cash, a credit card, or a pre-loaded IC card (e.g., Suica).
Install apps, but have a plan B. GO, Uber, and DiDi are great tools, but be prepared for possible registration or payment issues.
Please note the night surcharge. Between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM, the tariff is 20% higher.
Use taxis strategically. Think of them as a complement to Japan's brilliant public transportation, not a replacement.
Taking a taxi in Japan is more than just getting around. It's an opportunity to experience the omotenashi philosophy firsthand, admire the professionalism and pride in their work, and feel safe and comfortable in a foreign country.
Armed with the knowledge from this guide, every tourist from Poland can confidently enter this world and treat each course as a small, fascinating part of their Japanese adventure.
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