Uber in Japan can be a convenient way to get around, but there are still limitations to using it across the country. It may also differ from your understanding of using it in other countries.
From booking a ride to understanding local regulations, explore everything you need to know to make the most of Uber during your trip.
Is There Uber in Japan?
The quick answer to this question is yes. Uber is available in Japan.
However, there are regulatory limits to Uber, and it functions differently compared to other parts of the world.
In Japan, Uber acts as middleman to hail a licensed taxi for you, and it is generally considered one of the more expensive transportation options in the country.
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Cities Where Uber is Available
Uber is now available in all of Japan's 47 prefecutres, and around major airports like:
- Aomori Airport
- Fukushima Airport
- Osaka International Airport
- Kansai International Airport
- Narita International Airport
- New Chitose Airport
- Tokyo Haneda International Airport
And many more!
You can easily call an Uber to pick you up at these airports and take you to your destination.
For a full list of cities, click here: Uber Japan Cities to see if Uber is available in the city you're visiting!
✨Fun Fact: Need reliable internet to use Uber? Sakura Mobile counters can be found at some of the airports where Uber operates, so you can easily get connected and start your journey!
Click here to discover which airports.
How to Use Uber in Japan
If you already have the Uber app on your phone from your home country or previous travels, you don't need a separate, Japan-specific version. The app you already have should work just fine.
To use Uber in Japan, ensure you're connected to WiFi or have available data since the app requires an internet connection to book a ride.
If you know your destination, you can request a ride at any time, whether it's in real-time or in advance, so your ride is ready when you are.
Need Data or WiFi to Get an Uber? 🚗💨
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Uber Ride Types and Pricing
Uber has two main taxi services in Japan, but depending on where you are in Japan, this may be limited. You can choose from various types of vehicles through the app and check your driver's information.
Prices for these services depend on what service you use, where you are, how long your trip is, and more.
Uber Taxi
Uber Taxi is a service that allows you to dispatch a taxi from a taxi company that cooperates with you in your area through the Uber app.
How to Use:
- Open the app, set your destination, and choose Uber Taxi.
- Track the driver in real-time and board when they arrive.
- You can pay through the app after the ride.
Uber Taxi Pricing
Uber Taxi fares include pickup fees, meter fares, an app arrangement fee (only in Tokyo's 23 wards), and expressway tolls (if applicable).
The fare system is based on the same system as Japanese taxi companies. This is because these Japanese taxi companies are affiliated with Uber.
Pick up fees also vary depending on the taxi company that is used. It generally ranges from about 300-400 JPY.
There are two types of pickup fees:
- Fixed System: Applies a flat rate regardless of distance.
- Slip System: Varies depending on the balance of supply and demand.
⚠️ TIP: Changing your pickup or drop-off location may change the fare, so try to avoid last-minute adjustments to save money.
Uber Premium
Uber Premium is a service that allows you to easily call a luxurious vehicle for hire. It can accommodate a large number of people (up to 5 people) and carry a lot of luggage.
The vehicles are black luxury cars with highly rated, professional drivers.
How to Use:
- Select Uber Premium in the app and confirm pickup and destination.
- Confirm the vehicle details before boarding.
- You can pay through the app after the ride.
🚗 Fun Fact: Uber Premium (ウーバープレミアム) is called Uber Black in English.
For larger groups: Uber Premium can dispatch a minivan that can seat up to six people. This is only available in the Tokyo area. A vehicle designation fee of 1,090 JPY will be charged.
Uber Premium Pricing
Uber Premium fare includes base price, time fare, distance fare, expressway tolls, and peak charges.
The base price is determined by the travel time and distance. Similar to a regular taxi, the fare increases depending on the distance traveled.
The dispatch fee is a service usage fee that is charged for each city you use it in. It covers the costs associated with the operation, management, and safety of Uber Premium.
Peak Charges are temporary charges that are applied when there is a large number of users relative to the number of drivers until the balance between supply and demand is balanced.
💡 TIP: Enter your pickup location and destination to see the estimated price.
What Are Uber's Limitations in Japan?
Uber in Japan only connects users to licensed and regulated taxi drivers with Class-2 driver's licenses, which are required to transport passengers.
As a result, Uber charges the same initial fees and per-kilometer rates as standard taxis, plus an additional service fee for using the Uber app to hail a taxi.
⚠️TIP: The availability of Uber services (Uber Black, Uber Premium, etc.) may depend on where you are in Japan. Not all services are available in every prefecture.
Vehicles in Japan
Due to strict taxi regulations in Japan, Uber didn't enter the market until 2018 and only expanded into Tokyo in 2020 through agreements with established taxi companies.
This slow entry was met with opposition from local taxi drivers, who cited concerns over undercut fares and passenger safety. Because of this, Uber has been heavily restricted in the areas and times in which it can operate.
Because of this, the availability of Uber vehicles often depends on the area and time you need a ride.
Rural Areas and Alternative Transportation
In rural areas of Japan, you may find fewer Uber vehicles available.
Rather than calling an Uber, consider using taxi apps like GO or hail a regular taxi, as they may be more abundant.
Don't Get Stuck, Get Reliable Data in Japan
When calling for an Uber, you don't need a Japanese phone number or a credit card that was created in Japan.
You do, however, need WiFi or data.
Instead of relying on free public WiFi (which may not be available in all areas), use 🌸Sakura Mobile's Travel SIM/eSIM or Pocket WiFi🌸 for reliable connectivity throughout your trip.
Key Features:
- 📶 Unlimited data plans starting from 3,500 JPY
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- 🚚 Convenient pickup and delivery options
- 💬 English-speaking customer support
Conclusion
Uber in Japan functions as a taxi-hailing service, not the rideshare app it is known as in other parts of the world. It connects you with licensed taxis, but it can be one of the more expensive options.
Since Uber requires an internet connection to book a ride, stay connected with Sakura Mobile! Whether you choose a SIM, eSIM, or Pocket WiFi, we ensure you're always online, so you can navigate transportation and make the most of your time in Japan!
