Taxis are extremely common throughout Japan. You can easily find them at taxi stands near train stations, airports, department stores, sightseeing spots, hospitals and so forth. Lines of people are often waiting at the stands, courteously entering the taxis in an orderly fashion.

During the daytime, taxis display red “vacant” signs on their dashboards when no passengers are aboard. You can hail one of these taxis from the side of the road by simply stepping out and raising your hand. At night, vacant taxis illuminate an easy-to-see company nameplate above the windshield.

Before entering taxis, it is best not to reach for the doors because taxi drivers remotely open and close them for you. Upon reaching your destination, a fare must be paid. But tips are not customary and there’s no need to pay a tip even if the driver helps with heavy luggage.

Taxis can also be summoned by telephone. If you don’t speak Japanese, you can take advantage of taxi companies offering services in English.

[Taxi company English service available]

・Hallo Tokyo (TEL 03-5653-7921)

*Call 30minitue before you need.

・Hitachi-group (TEL 03-5682-1122)

・Nihon Kotsu (TEL 03-3799-9220)