Japan’s public transportation system is famous for its punctuality and efficiency. However, for visitors, it can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when navigating crowded tourist areas, rural regions with limited service, or dealing with language barriers and complex routes. On top of that, Japan’s taxi culture has its own set of characteristics that may surprise travelers.
That’s where “GO,” Japan’s leading taxi app, comes in. With the largest fleet of partner vehicles in Japan, English language support, and cashless payment options, the GO app offers a stress-free and seamless way to get around. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about using taxis in Japan, key features of the GO app, and practical tips to make your journey more comfortable. Plus, exclusive offers for JCB cardholders—don’t miss out!
※Sourced from data.ai by Sensor Tower
- Number of taxi app downloads in Japan（Total of App Store and Google Play）
- Survey period: October 1, 2020 - Mar 31, 2025
※In-house research (Based on the interview survey of 5,151 taxi businesses including sole proprietors conducted from '22 Jun to '25 Jan)
When a Taxi Is the Best Option in Japan
After a sharp decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international visitors to Japan has surged once again, driven by the country's growing global appeal. However, this resurgence has resulted in overcrowding at popular tourist spots and exposed the limitations of public transportation in rural regions.
Taxis offer an invaluable travel solution. They are particularly convenient when carrying heavy luggage, traveling with a group, or exploring with children or elderly companions. Taxis are also ideal for late-night airport transfers, missed trains, or getting around during off-peak hours. By including taxis in your travel plans, you can enjoy a more comfortable, flexible, and efficient journey through Japan.
Hailing and Riding a Taxi in Japan
There are several convenient ways to catch a taxi in Japan. The easiest is to use designated taxi stands found at major train stations, airports, and shopping centers. You can also hail a taxi on the street by raising your hand—just look for the red 空車 sign on the dashboard, indicating it’s available. Hotel or restaurant staff are usually happy to arrange a taxi for you as well. While it's possible to call a taxi company directly, most services operate only in Japanese, which can be a challenge for non-Japanese speakers.
For travelers worried about language barriers or getting around unfamiliar areas, the GO app is a great solution. It offers an English interface, shows your current location, and lets you set your pickup point with ease, making it ideal even in less familiar neighborhoods. Once your ride is booked, you’ll receive a unique three-digit meeting number. Just show this to your driver upon arrival to ensure you’re getting into the right car, avoiding any confusion.
Normally, when taking a taxi in Japan, you’d need to tell your destination in Japanese or guide the driver using a map. With the GO app, however, you can set your destination in advance when booking your ride, removing the need for any conversation. You can enter the name or address, or simply drop a pin on the map, making it easy to navigate without worrying about language issues such as pronouncing unfamiliar place names.
Understanding Taxi Fares in Japan and How to Pay
Taxi fares in Japan are calculated based on a combination of base fare and additional charges:
- Base Fare: A fixed rate that covers the initial distance (typically 1-1.3 km). For example, in Tokyo, this is generally around 500-600 JPY.
- Distance-Based Charges: After the base distance, an additional fee is applied (usually 100 JPY for every 250-300 meters).
- Time-Based Charges: When the taxi is moving slowly due to traffic or red lights, time-based charges apply (typically 100 JPY for every 95 seconds).
- Late-Night Surcharge: From 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM, a 20% surcharge is added to the standard fare.
Most taxis in Japan accept a range of payment methods, including cash, credit cards (such as JCB), transportation IC cards like Suica and PASMO, and other cashless options. However, it's important to note that taxis in rural areas may only accept cash.
One of the handy features of the GO app is its fare estimation tool, which displays the expected cost based on your pickup and drop-off points before you book, giving you peace of mind about pricing. The app also offers airport flat rate fares, providing convenient long-distance transport from select areas (Tokyo’s 23 wards, excluding some zones, plus Musashino and Mitaka cities) to Haneda Airport (from 6,900 JPY) and Narita Airport (from 19,000 JPY). Note that final fares may vary based on your departure location and time, with an additional 400 JPY service fee and separate highway tolls.
What Makes “GO” the Top Taxi App in Japan?
"GO" is Japan's #1 downloaded taxi app*, and there are clear reasons behind its overwhelming popularity:
- It boasts the largest network of contracted vehicles in the country.
- The app has English language support and the ability to register overseas credit cards and international phone numbers.
- It's the only taxi app that covers all Japanese prefectures (except Shimane Prefecture).
- From booking to payment, everything can be handled seamlessly within the GO app.
- It offers a range of vehicle types, including larger models and those with sliding doors, to suit different needs and preferences.
- It features the popular "GO PREMIUM" service, providing luxury van transportation for a more elevated and comfortable travel experience.
"GO PREMIUM" is a high-end transportation option available through the GO app, offering luxury vans that seat up to six passengers. With spacious interiors, it's ideal for group travel or those carrying extra luggage. All drivers are handpicked for their professional chauffeur experience and top customer ratings, ensuring a smooth and reliable ride. While a premium fee applies on top of the standard fare, there’s no need for advance booking or a minimum fare—just book directly through the app.
- Learn more about GO PREMIUM here:https://go.goinc.jp/en/premium/
With its wide range of user-friendly features, the GO app serves as a reliable, stress-free companion for both tourists and business travelers during their time in Japan. Its strong commitment to supporting international users has earned it accolades, including the Best Taxi App Award at the Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2024, highlighting its quality through third-party recognition.
*Please note: Availability of specific vehicle types may vary by area.
Getting Started with the Taxi App “GO” in 6 Simple Steps
Getting started with the GO app is quick and easy—anyone can be up and running in just a few minutes:
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
- Enable location access when prompted
- Enter your phone number for verification
- Input the SMS code sent to your device
- Fill in basic details like your name
- Set up your preferred payment method (credit cards and Apple Pay are accepted)
That’s it! Registration is simple and requires only minimal personal information. You’re now ready to book taxis effortlessly and enjoy smooth, stress-free travel across Japan.
- Download the GO app:https://un2f.adj.st?adj_t=1q8a2w12&adj_deep_link=mot-go%3A%2F%2F
Transportation plays a big role in shaping your travel experience. Make your time in Japan smoother and more enjoyable by using the GO app for comfortable, convenient rides wherever you go!
Exclusive JCB Member Benefits
During the campaign period, JCB cardholders* can get 30% cashback on taxi rides of ¥3,000 or more!(Cashback limit: ¥1,000)
*JCB cards issued in Japan, Russia, and Myanmar are not eligible.
Plus, first-time riders can get a ¥500 discount coupon - available for a limited time during the same period.
Combine both offers and save up to around 40% on your taxi fare!
- Campaign period: August 15, 2025 - February 14, 2026
- Click here for details:https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/taxigo/86780/
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