How to get a taxi in Japan without getting scammed
Visiting Japan opens doors to cultural experiences, from the beauty of its traditional tea ceremonies to the bustling streets of its modern cities. Yet, for many travelers, using local transportation is a daunting challenge – especially when it comes to hailing a taxi.
Surprisingly, Japan faces a significant issue with taxi availability – particularly in metropolitan areas like Tokyo. This scarcity leaves tourists struggling to find a reliable ride, and the situation worsens because of language barriers and the complex layout of Japanese cities. That’s why you need to have a clear understanding of the Japanese transport system to make the most out of your trip.
For that reason, here are some savvy tips to help you understand what it takes to get a taxi in Japan without getting scammed.
The Japan taxi shortage
As Japan experiences a surge in tourism, the demand for taxis has skyrocketed in major airports and tourist destinations. But despite the high demand, there is a shortage of taxis because:
Governments ban drivers who use unlicensed vehicles to give paid transport services.
10,000 drivers left the driving industry during COVID-19.
Elderly people stopped driving post-COVID-19.
Ban on illegal and unlicensed taxis
The higher demand for taxis has highlighted the scarcity, and the problem has gotten worse because more illegal taxi services have appeared.
Rural areas and popular tourist sites face an acute shortage of taxi drivers, which has led to discussions about opening the market to ride-hailing services. However, safety concerns and resistance from the traditional taxi industry create a complex situation.
To address this, Japanese authorities have initiated a crackdown on these unlicensed operators to educate international visitors about identifying and using legal taxis. The government distributed informative flyers at locations like Narita Airport to help people distinguish between licensed and illegal taxis.
Post-pandemic demand surge
The post-pandemic recovery has led to a sudden spike in demand for taxis from tourists and business travelers. This resurgence has stretched the existing taxi services to their limits. Around 10,000 drivers left the driving industry during COVID-19 in Tokyo.
This shortage showed how the transportation sector is vulnerable to crises. That’s why there’s a strong need for innovative solutions like self-driving taxis to fix driver shortages and make sure transportation in Japan is dependable.
To address this, the government has approved a plan to permit individuals with a standard driver's license to provide taxi services using their vehicles. This initiative aims to tackle the country's widespread shortage of taxi drivers.
Aging workforce and decreasing number of drivers
Another critical factor is the aging population of taxi drivers.
Many drivers enter the profession later in life and often don't stay long enough to replace retiring drivers. The average age of taxi drivers is high due to this trend. However, after the COVID-19 pandemic, elderly drivers did not return to their usual driving duties, which further increased the shortage of drivers in the industry.
For that reason, companies are trying to attract a younger population by providing flexible working hours and a better pay rate. Doing so may help fix the shortage of taxis and drivers.
Driving in Japan is not a piece of cake
Travelers think they should drive themselves to explore a country at their own pace and leisure. However, this option comes with challenges in Japan, making it less ideal for those unfamiliar with the local context.
The country's roads are known for being impeccably maintained, but their complexity also characterizes them. Narrow streets, dense traffic in urban areas, and unique driving etiquette are overwhelming for tourists.
On top of it, the language barrier can turn simple route-finding into a potential challenge. Even in our hometown, road signs can sometimes feel like they're confusing. Now, imagine that in Japan – where most signs are predominantly in Japanese, it would be difficult to understand the route. You may feel like you’re in an exciting treasure hunt, except the treasure is your destination, and the clues are in a language you might not speak.
The hurdles of legal requirements
Understanding and complying with Japan's legal requirements for driving feels like jumping through hoops for international visitors. Think about it: from getting an international driving permit to wrapping your head around the local traffic laws, there's a whole checklist of things to tick off.
Handling these legal intricacies isn’t the most exciting part of your trip. After all, nobody adds 'accidentally breaking a traffic law and facing the consequences' to their holiday itinerary.
Parking and traffic congestion
In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, traffic congestion and limited parking spaces add to the complexity of self-driving. Finding a parking spot is a time-consuming and costly affair, often detracting from the overall experience of the journey.
And why bother getting bogged down with these hassles when you're in Japan to live your best life? You're there to soak in the culture, indulge in the cuisine, and create memories – not to spend your time sorting out legalities.
Getting a taxi in Japan early with a trusted supplier
Now that you know about the taxi shortage, take proactive steps to avoid any issues and book ahead of time because it’s not a convenience; it's a necessity. Reserve your ride in advance to ensure there is a cab waiting for you, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your travel needs are taken care of.
Choosing a trusted supplier
Here’s why you should use a trusted taxi service:
A trusted supplier is your travel partner who will always prioritize your experience and safety.
They possess local expertise, an understanding of Japan's streets, culture, and the needs of international travelers.
These providers are not just drivers; they are guardians of your comfort.
Benefits of private chartered car services
With the ongoing taxi shortage in Japan, last-minute attempts to hail a cab lead to unnecessary stress and delays. Private chartered car services stand out as an ideal solution because of the existing taxi problems. These services, exemplified by companies like ours, provide many benefits catering to your diverse needs.
Personalization and flexibility
Unlike standard taxis or public transportation, a private car can be tailored to your itinerary, preferences, and pace. Whether you're planning a day of extensive sightseeing or need a reliable service for business engagements, these services adjust to your schedule and preferences to give a bespoke travel experience.
Comfort and safety
A trusted supplier will have maintained vehicles to provide a smooth and luxurious ride. Their drivers are experienced and knowledgeable about the best routes and adhere to the highest standards of driving safety. This aspect is crucial in a country where road rules and driving practices might differ from what travelers are used to.
No language barriers
For international travelers, language barriers are an obstacle. However, private chartered car services often provide drivers who are proficient in English or offer multilingual support to bridge the communication gap. This will make your journey more comfortable and enrich the travel experience, as drivers can share insights about local culture, places of interest, and hidden gems.
Cost-effective car service
While the initial cost of a private chartered service might seem higher than traditional taxis, the value it offers is substantial. With clear pricing structures and no hidden fees, these services provide a cost-effective solution, especially for groups or those planning extensive travel within the city or countryside. Read more on our vehicle types here.
TokudAw, for your traveling needs
The challenges of hailing taxis, understanding road rules, and finding parking in bustling cities like Tokyo or Kyoto can take a toll on your travel experience.
That's where a service like TokudAw comes in. Imagine having a private chartered car with a driver who knows the ins and outs of local streets, fluent in understanding both the roads and the language. Think of it as your key to a smoother, more relaxed adventure.
Now no more guesswork with taxis or fretting over parking spots. It’s time to make your every moment in Japan count, with the comfort and ease of knowing your transportation is sorted.
So, are you ready to make your Japan tour unforgettable? Let’s get started.
