Taking a taxi in Japan: your guide to booking, tipping and costs

There are around 50,000 taxis in Tokyo alone. They're a bit spendy but can be your saviour in a transportation tight-spot.

So, you've landed in Japan, navigated the train system like a pro, and maybe even mastered the art of the vending machine. But what about those times when the last train has gone, your feet are protesting, or you're just juggling a bit too much luggage? Enter the Japanese taxi – often seen as a luxurious (and yes, sometimes pricey!) saviour. While they might look a bit different from what you're used to, using a taxi in Japan is usually a wonderfully smooth and incredibly polite experience.

Forget frantic hails or worries about dodgy drivers. Japanese taxis are a world apart: spotlessly clean, incredibly efficient, and driven by meticulous professionals. They're a fantastic option for late-night journeys, group travel, or simply when you want to get from A to B with maximum comfort. So, let's buckle up and learn the ins and outs of cruising Japan-style!

How to spot Your ride: recognising a Japanese taxi

Japanese taxis have a distinctive charm! You'll often see them in traditional colours – glossy black, cream, or sometimes bright yellow or green, especially in specific regions or for older companies. Many have a slightly retro, boxy shape, reminiscent of classic sedans, and they look incredibly well-maintained.

The easiest way to know if a taxi is available (or "empty") is by looking at the small, illuminated sign on the dashboard near the windshield, or sometimes a larger sign on the roof.

·       Red Light / Red Kanji: If the sign is red (or shows red characters like 空車 kūsha, meaning "empty/vacant") – huzzah! The taxi is available for hire.

·       Green Light / Green Kanji: If it's green (or shows 賃走 chinsō, meaning "occupied/fare-paying") – wave goodbye. That taxi is currently carrying a passenger.

Many taxis also have a unique, often decorative, light on their roof, like a little lantern or a specific company logo, adding to their distinct look. Oh, and you'll often spot drivers in smart uniforms, complete with white gloves – a true mark of their professionalism!

Hailing your hero: snagging a taxi on the street or in advance

Okay, you've spotted an empty taxi – now what?

Hailing on the Street

You can hail a taxi on most streets, just like you would elsewhere. Simply raise your hand (not too frantically, a calm, clear raise will do!) when you see one with the red "empty" light. They'll pull over safely when they can.

However, in busier city centres, it's often more efficient (and polite!) to head to a designated taxi stand. These are common outside train stations, major hotels, department stores, and large public facilities. Just look for the taxi symbol or a line of waiting cabs. This ensures an orderly queue, and you'll likely get a taxi much faster during peak times.

Ordering in Advance

For early morning airport runs, special occasions, or if you're in a less populated area, ordering a taxi in advance is definitely the way to go.

·       Hotel concierge: This is your best friend! Simply tell your hotel concierge when and where you need a taxi, and they'll arrange it for you. They'll handle all the Japanese communication, which is a huge stress-reliever.

·       Japan taxi apps: While not as dominant as Uber in many Western countries (more on Uber below!), traditional taxi companies have their own apps. Apps like JapanTaxi or GO are widely used, but they are primarily in Japanese. You might need some help from a local or your hotel to navigate them if your Japanese isn't up to scratch. They allow you to input your destination and pay via the app, much like international ride-hailing services.

How much are taxis in Japan?

Now, for the big question: are taxis expensive? How much are Japan taxi fares? The short answer is, "more than the train, but often worth it!" Compared to Japan's incredibly efficient (and often budget-friendly) public transport, taxis are certainly a step up in price. However, they are also known for their absolute honesty and transparent pricing.

Fares are calculated by a meter, based on distance and time. You'll typically see a base fare (the initial cost when you get in) which usually covers the first 1-2 kilometres. In Tokyo, for instance, this might be around ¥500-¥750. After that, the meter clicks up by a set amount for every additional segment of distance travelled. There's also a time-based charge that kicks in if the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic or moving very slowly – so rush hour can bump up the price! Be aware of a late-night/early-morning surcharge (usually 20% higher) that applies between approximately 10 PM and 5 AM. Any highway tolls incurred during your journey will also be added to the final fare. While a short hop might be a few hundred yen, a longer trip across a city or to an airport can quickly add up, so plan accordingly!

Top tips for a smooth Japanese taxi ride

Do you tip taxi drivers in Japan? Nope, never.

Once you're in, Japanese taxis offer a uniquely efficient and comfortable experience. Here are some pro tips to ensure your ride is as smooth as silk:

·       The Magical Automatic Doors: This is usually the first delightful surprise! Japanese taxi doors open and close automatically. Seriously, do not touch them! The driver operates them remotely from their seat. Just stand by the curb, and the rear passenger door will swing open for you. Trying to open or close it yourself is a dead giveaway you're a tourist (and potentially a bit awkward!).

·       Have Your Destination Ready (in Japanese!): This is perhaps the most important tip. While Japanese taxi drivers are incredibly polite, very few speak English beyond a few basic phrases. Your pronunciation of a Japanese address, no matter how good, might be unintelligible to them. So:

• Have the exact address written down in Japanese characters (Kanji/Hiragana/Katakana). A screenshot from Google Maps is perfect.

• Show them the location on Google Maps on your phone. Even better if you can zoom in on a landmark near your destination.

• Point to a photo of the building.

• Have the name of a nearby famous landmark or station. They will almost certainly know those!

• If all else fails, your hotel concierge can write it down for you.

  
  

·       No Tipping, Ever! This is crucial: Tipping is not customary in Japan. Seriously, don't do it! Drivers might be confused or even slightly offended if you try to offer extra money. The fare displayed on the meter is the total amount you pay. Their excellent service is part of their professional standard.

·       Paying Your Fare: Most Japanese taxis now accept various payment methods:

• Cash: Always a safe bet. Make sure you have smaller denominations if possible, though drivers usually have change.

• Credit Card: Most taxis accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex). Look for the stickers on the window or ask "Kurejito kādo daijōbu desu ka?" (Is credit card okay?).

• IC Cards: Popular IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, etc., are widely accepted. Just tap your card on the reader. This is incredibly convenient!

  
  

·       Seatbelts are Mandatory: Just like in many other countries, seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, front and back. The driver will usually remind you if you forget.

·       Jumbo Taxis for Larger Groups or Luggage: Standard Japanese taxis (which are often sedans) are typically licensed to carry a maximum of four passengers. If you're a group of five or more, you'll need to look for a "jumbo taxi" or "van taxi," which are larger vehicles.

·       Luggage Capacity is Limited: Standard taxis have surprisingly limited boot space compared to what you might be used to. They can usually fit 1-2 large suitcases at most. If you're travelling with more than two large suitcases, or with several smaller bags, it's a good idea to either:

• Order a jumbo taxi (if your group is already 4 or less, this just gets you more space).

• Consider taking two standard taxis.

• Utilise Japan's excellent luggage forwarding services (like Yamato Transport or Sagawa Express) to send larger bags ahead.

  
  

·       Immaculate Cleanliness: Be prepared for a spotless interior. Japanese taxis are famously clean, often with pristine seat covers. It's part of the experience!

·       Quiet & Polite Drivers: Don't expect much chit-chat unless you initiate it and are clearly fluent in Japanese. Drivers are focused on getting you to your destination safely and efficiently. They'll typically be very quiet, respectful, and polite.

Uber in Japan: A different beast

If you're used to hailing an Uber everywhere else in the world, be aware that Uber operates quite differently in Japan. It's not the ubiquitous, disruptive service you might find in London or New York.

In Japan, Uber often partners with traditional taxi companies, meaning when you request an "Uber," you're typically just hailing a regular taxi through the app, rather than a private driver. While convenient for payment and destination input, it usually won't be cheaper than a regular taxi, and its coverage can be limited outside of major city centres compared to traditional taxi stands or the local taxi apps like GO or JapanTaxi. So, while it exists, don't rely solely on it.

Travelling with children in a Japanese taxi is uncomplicated

Travelling by taxi in Japan with small kids: what the law says

If you're traveling with little ones, you might be wondering about car seats in Japanese taxis. While Japanese traffic law generally requires children under six to use a child restraint system in vehicles, taxis are actually legally exempt from this rule.  This means it's not illegal for your baby or small child to ride in a taxi without a car seat. But you should be aware that it's very rare for standard taxis to carry child seats unless you specifically request one in advance,  and even then, availability can be limited. For your kids' safety, it's always recommended to use a child seat when possible, so if this is a priority for your family, consider pre-booking a specialised taxi service that can guarantee a car seat for your journey.

Comfort and convenience

Navigating the bustling streets of Japan in a taxi is an experience in itself – one of comfort, punctuality, and exceptional politeness. From the surprising automatic doors to the silent, efficient drivers, it’s a smooth ride that often feels like a mini-luxury.

While they might not be the cheapest way to get around, especially compared to Japan's incredible train network, taxis are an invaluable option for those late-night returns, when you're loaded with souvenirs, or simply when you want to bypass the crowds. By keeping these simple tips in mind, you'll be hailing, directing, and paying for your Japanese taxi like a seasoned pro in no time.

Have you ever used a taxi in Japan? What have been your experiences with the latest Japan taxi apps, etc.? Let us know in the comments!