Taxi Apps for Foreigners in Japan

Starting in 2018, the popularity of Japanese Taxi apps began to grow steadily in Japan. In recent years, it has become a favorite among the Japanese population. By simply installing a Japan Taxi app on a smartphone, users can book a taxi to pick them up at their specified location. Currently, in major metropolitan areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, these apps are widely used. Most of these apps provide a fare estimate after entering the destination, giving riders an idea of the expected cost and eliminating the concern of being overcharged by taxi drivers. By signing up for free as a member on these apps, users can also save their credit card details, enabling direct payment through the app. Some apps even offer the issuance of receipts, making the whole process extremely convenient.

The interface of Japan taxi apps are typically user-friendly. Some even support multiple languages, catering not only to busy professionals but also to families on trips, individuals with mobility challenges due to health issues, or those caught in sudden rain and in immediate need of a taxi. It's incredibly convenient.

This article introduces handy Japan taxi apps and explains the methods of taking a taxi in Japan, including how to hail one, cost structures, billing methods, license plate colors, and more. Whether you're working in Japan, studying in Japan, on a working holiday, or just touring Japan, this guide can help you choose the best taxi app for your specific travel area.

Contents

• How to hail a taxi in Japan
• Japan Taxi Fare Calculator
• Japanese Taxi Body and License Plate Colors
• Taxi Apps for Foreigners in Japan
• Japanese Phrases used when hailing a taxi in Japan

How to hail a taxi in Japan

Recommendable Taxi Apps for Foreigners in Japan

Japan Taxi Fare Calculator

In Japan, taxi fares are calculated based on a minimum charge, followed by additional charges for each subsequent kilometer traveled.The minimum charge, or the starting fare, typically ranges from 500 to 600 yen, varying by region and taxi company. It's advisable to check the starting fare, which is often displayed in the taxi, before hailing one.

Additional charges for Japanese taxis are as follows:

Japanese Taxi Body and License Plate Colors

In Japan, taxis do not adhere to a standard color scheme; each region features taxis in various colors, including black, green, yellow, orange, among others. Different taxi companies use distinct colors to set themselves apart. An important aspect to note is the color of the license plates on Japanese taxis. Japanese license plates come in five colors: white, yellow, green, black, and blue. Taxis with green license plates are legally operated and approved by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism of Japan, ensuring passenger entitlement to compensation in the event of a traffic accident. Conversely, a taxi with a white license plate is typically a non-commercial private car. As Japan has not fully legalized taxi services for vehicles with white plates, caution is advised when hailing a taxi in Japan.

Taxi Apps for Foreigners in Japan

Using a Japanese Taxi apps allow for a quicker way to hail taxis in Japan. Download and install the Taxi app, complete the registration, and then you can easily request a taxi in Japan using the app. Simply input your ride's date, time, and location in the app. Once the reservation is complete, you just need to wait at the pickup location for your taxi. This method is particularly convenient for foreigners who may not be fluent in Japanese, as it reduces the risk of miscommunication with the drivers.

In comparison to the traditional method of hailing a taxi by phone, using a Japanese Taxi app not only eliminates the need to speak Japanese but also saves on phone charges. During busy periods, or in crowded areas such as hotels and stations, hailing a taxi can be difficult. The Taxi app addresses this issue by making it easier to find a taxi, especially on short notice.

Recommendable Taxi Apps for Foreigners in Japan