Hailing a Taxi in JapanAs in many other places in the world, simply raise your hand or wave your arm to get their attention. Cabs are most easily caught on main thoroughfares, or near traffic lights.
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Tokyo Taxi AppsTaxis in Tokyo are ubiquitous, but for those rare times when there's not a taxi in sight, simply download a taxi app. Registration is generally quick and easy. Remember to enable the GPS function on your smartphone so you can be located.
Many taxis accept payment by credit card, and an increasing number accept payment by IC card, such as Suica. Stickers on the door often indicate accepted payment methods. When paying in cash, try to avoid paying small amounts with large bills. Tipping is not done in Japan.
Japan does not have a tipping culture and drivers neither expect nor accept money in excess of the fare displayed on the meter. They will not accept haggling either. Cash is the safest way to pay, though an increasing number of taxis now also take IC cards like Pasmo and Suica as well as credit cards.
Like most countries around the world, taking a taxi is a more expensive choice than public transport, but if you are traveling in a group of three or four, it can sometimes be an economical way to travel. While credit cards can generally be used in major city taxis, cash might be your only option in countryside cabs.
Most Japanese taxi drivers do not speak English, so you should try and show the driver a name card showing your destination in Japanese characters, or point out the place you wish to go on a map. Japanese cabs also now often have SAT NAV which will aid finding your destination if you know the telephone number of the ...
Most taxi drivers in Tokyo understand English, and you can simply tell them where you want to go. However, perhaps you can still ask someone at your hotel to help you write your destination on a piece of paper in Japanese.
Tipping Culture in JapanTipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment).
Rechargeable smart cards or IC cards are the most convenient way to pay for trains, buses, and monorail fares in Japan. Vending machines, convenience stores, and chain restaurants also accept IC cards. Two primary types of IC cards are the Suica Card and PASMO.
The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at hand when visiting rural areas. Cash is often the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist sights, smaller restaurants and small shops. Many lockers also require coins.