🚕 Getting Around Japan
Can't find a taxi? Missed the last train? Here are your options.
🚫 Why Taxis Are Hard to Find
Japan has a severe taxi driver shortage since COVID. Many drivers retired and never came back.
Finding a taxi is especially hard: late at night, when it rains, during rush hour, and in rural areas. But Japan has excellent alternatives.
1. Taxi Apps
★ Set Up BEFORE You Need ItGO (タクシーGO)
Most popular in Japan. Works nationwide. Register with credit card in advance.
Uber Japan
Limited to some cities. Uses licensed taxis, not regular cars like overseas.
S.RIDE
Tokyo-focused. Fast pickup in central Tokyo areas.
Warning: Even with apps, you may see "No cars available nearby" at peak times. Have a backup plan.
2. Missed the Last Train?
Last trains in Japan run around midnight to 00:30. If you miss it:
Karaoke (overnight package)
¥1,500-3,000 for an all-night room with drinks. Surprisingly comfortable.
Manga/Internet Cafe (ネットカフェ)
Private booths with reclining seats, showers, free drinks. ¥1,500-2,500/night.
Capsule Hotels
Walk-in OK at most locations. ¥3,000-5,000. Clean and efficient.
24-Hour Restaurants
Denny's, Jonathan's, Gusto, Yoshinoya — order a drink and wait for the first train (around 5:00 AM).
3. Rental Bikes & E-Scooters
Cheap, fast, and available in most cities. Unlock with your phone.
DOCOMO Bike Share
Electric bikes, ¥165/30min. Red bikes found all over Tokyo. Register with credit card.
LUUP
E-scooters and e-bikes. Growing rapidly in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto. App-based.
Hello Cycling
Available in smaller cities too. Return to any station in the network.
E-scooter rules: Helmet recommended, stay on roads (not sidewalks), max speed 20km/h. No drunk riding!
4. Highway & Night Buses
The cheapest way to travel between cities. Tokyo → Osaka from ¥2,000.
- Willer Express — English booking site, comfortable seats
- Japan Bus Lines — Budget-friendly options
- Night buses save you a hotel night
- Many have power outlets, Wi-Fi, and curtains
Busta Shinjuku (New South Exit of Shinjuku Station) is the main highway bus terminal in Tokyo.
5. Car Sharing (Rural Areas)
For rural areas where public transport is limited, car sharing is a game-changer.
Times Car Share
Available 24/7 at parking lots nationwide. Unlock with app. From ¥220/15min.
⚠️ Required: International Driving Permit (IDP). Get this in your home country BEFORE your trip. Japanese rental companies will not accept a foreign license alone.
6. Just Walk
Don't underestimate walking in Japan:
- Japan is extremely safe to walk at night
- Google Maps walking directions are very accurate
- Convenience stores every few blocks for rest and refreshments
- Many "far away" places are actually a pleasant 15-20 min walk
Fun fact: Walking in Tokyo often takes the same time as the train when you count the time getting to/from stations and waiting.