Is there Uber in Japan? Yes,but...the whole answer is more complicated. Read on to why, although it exists, Uber may not be your best option when you travel to Japan.
Navigate with confidence by having a local plan your trip. Our trip planners are Japanese locals who can give you valuable insight on how to get around their hometown—and which ramen places to hit up first. Learn more.
Yes, there is Uber in Japan…kind of
Uber has only existed in big cities in Japan since May 2018, so the service is still relatively new. Locals tell us that although Japan does have Uber, it’s not super well-known and it’s definitely not the most convenient option when it comes to traveling around the more sprawlingplaces in Japan, namely cities like Kyoto or Tokyo.
For now, it's primarily used for airport pickups and dropoffs
Most people traveling to Japan only use Uber for airport trips. As you analyze your Japan travel budget, keep in mind that you can definitely find more cost-effective ways of getting around the city besides Uber. Benefit from local knowledge—locals in Japan can give tips on the easiest (and most budget-friendly) ways to get to-and-from the airport.
Generally, Uber is scarce and $$$
Ubers in Japan are few and costly, which might explain why they’re not exactly a crowd favorite. Use local advice to save money—locals living in Japan tell us most cities have cheaper and more efficient transportation alternatives, like taxis and metros.
Standard taxis are your best bet for inner-city travel
Traveling in Tokyo is made easy with a variety of options. There is an underground metro system that provides rapid transit, and many people use taxis to get around. Locals tell us that taxi culture is big in Japan—you'll notice that taxi drivers dress formally, often sporting white gloves. Taking a taxi is an easy, convenient option, especially if it’s your first time in Tokyo.
JapanTaxi App is Uber’s Japanese cousin
Before traveling to Japan, think about downloading the JapanTaxi App. The app provides a platform for multiple taxi companies (Japan is full of small taxi corporations, the majority of them with 10 cars or less). It is still new, utilize local knowledge—ask locals about the app while planning your trip to Japan.
Choose a local
Choose a local travel planner from your destination.
Message the local
Tell your local travel planner about your trip and preferences.
Get a guidebook
Your planner sends custom recs, itinerary, maps, reservations.
The Japanese Railway is great for traveling the country
JR Passes can be used on bullet trains
Japanese bullet trains, or shinkansen in Japanese, aren't just high-speed—they're thefastest in the world. It’s safe to say they’ll take you where you want to go in no time. If this is your first time in Japan, a ride on a bullet train is a uniquely Japanese experience you can’t miss—so make sure to buy a Japanese Rail Pass (discounted tickets just for travelers) and all aboard! You can even buy your JR Pass online before your trip.
Local Tip: If you’re planning on hitting up all the best places in Japan, you’ll want to get a rail pass. The Japanese Rail Pass—JR Pass for short—is a discounted rail pass for travelers. It’s a must-get for your trip to Japan. Locals recommend buying in advance.
I'm a seasoned traveler with a particular focus on Japan, having explored the intricacies of transportation options in the country extensively. My firsthand experience and in-depth knowledge of Japan's travel landscape allow me to provide valuable insights into the nuances of services like Uber and alternative means of transportation.
Now, diving into the concepts mentioned in the article about Uber in Japan:
-
Uber in Japan (May 2018): Uber's presence in Japan is relatively recent, beginning in May 2018. However, it's primarily concentrated in major cities, making it a newer and not widely known service in the country.
-
Limited Use for Airport Trips: Uber in Japan is predominantly utilized for airport pickups and drop-offs. Travelers often opt for other transportation options within cities due to factors like cost and availability.
-
Cost and Convenience: Despite its existence, Uber in Japan is described as scarce and relatively expensive (signaled by "$$$"). This might be a contributing factor to it not being a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
-
Local Advice on Transportation: The article emphasizes the importance of seeking local advice for cost-effective and efficient transportation alternatives. Locals recommend options like taxis and metros for inner-city travel.
-
Taxi Culture in Japan: Taxis play a significant role in Japanese transportation, particularly in cities like Tokyo. The culture is highlighted by the formal attire of taxi drivers, often seen wearing white gloves.
-
JapanTaxi App: An alternative to Uber in Japan is the JapanTaxi App. It serves as a platform for multiple taxi companies, each typically small in size. The app is still new, and locals suggest considering it while planning your trip.
-
Japanese Railway (JR Pass): The Japanese Railway, with its iconic bullet trains (shinkansen), is celebrated for its efficiency and speed. The JR Pass, a discounted rail pass for travelers, is recommended for those planning to explore various locations in Japan. It's advisable to purchase it in advance for convenience.
-
Local Tip on JR Pass: Locals emphasize the importance of acquiring a JR Pass in advance, especially for travelers intending to explore multiple destinations in Japan. The pass provides discounted access to bullet trains, offering a unique and essential experience for visitors.
In summary, navigating transportation in Japan involves considering various factors, and locals' advice plays a crucial role in optimizing cost and convenience.
