The Complete Guide to Riding a Taxi in Japan
Japan's public transportation is world-famous, but sometimes, a taxi is the most convenient option. Whether you're heading to a hard-to-reach location, traveling with heavy luggage, or catching a late-night ride after the trains have stopped, Japanese taxis are a clean, safe, and reliable choice.
However, there are a few unique customs—like automatic doors and specific ways to give your destination—that can be surprising for first-time visitors. Don't worry, it's very simple!
This complete guide will cover everything you need to know for a stress-free taxi ride, from hailing a cab to saying thank you.
1. Hailing a Taxi
Finding a taxi in a Japanese city is usually easy. You can either go to a designated taxi stand (タクシー乗り場 - takushī noriba), often found outside train stations and large hotels, or hail one on the street.
Look for a sign on the car's dashboard or roof:
- 空車 (Kūsha) - Vacant: This taxi is available. Raise your hand to hail it.
- 賃走 (Chinsō) - Occupied: This taxi already has a passenger.
💡 The Magic Door!
The most surprising thing for many visitors is that the rear left door of a Japanese taxi opens and closes automatically. The driver operates it with a lever. Do not try to open or close the door yourself! Just stand back and let it open for you.
2. Giving Your Destination
Once you're inside, you need to tell the driver where you want to go. While some drivers in major cities may know some English, it's best to be prepared.
The Best Method: Show, Don't Tell
The easiest and most foolproof way is to have your destination's address written down in Japanese. A hotel business card, a screenshot from a map app, or the address from a website is perfect.
You (showing your phone/card):
ここへお願いします。
(Koko e onegaishimasu.)
"To this place, please."
Using a Landmark
If you're going to a well-known place, you can say the name directly.
You:
[Landmark] までお願いします。
([Landmark] made onegaishimasu.)
"To [Landmark], please."
Example: 東京駅までお願いします。 (Tōkyō-eki made onegaishimasu.)
3. During the Ride
You generally don't need to say much during the ride. If you need to give simple directions, you can use these words while pointing.
- まっすぐ (Massugu) - Straight
- 右 (Migi) - Right
- 左 (Hidari) - Left
When you are getting close and see the spot where you'd like to be dropped off, you can say:
You: ここでいいです。
(Koko de ii desu.)
"Here is fine." / "You can stop here."
4. Paying the Fare
Fares are calculated by a meter. As in restaurants, there is no tipping. You can ask for a receipt with this phrase:
You: 領収書をお願いします。
(Ryōshūsho o onegaishimasu.)
"A receipt, please."
Most taxis accept credit cards, but it's always good to have cash just in case, especially in rural areas.
Conclusion
Taking a taxi in Japan is a seamless and comfortable experience. By remembering not to touch the door and having your destination ready to show, you're already halfway there. Add in a polite "onegaishimasu," and you'll be riding like a pro.