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How do you say thank you to a taxi driver in Japan?

Afterwards, add on something such as yoroshiku onegaishimasu (??????????), which roughly means thank you. In fact, it's the thank you you're supposed to say before someone does something for you. The thank you after they actually do it is arigatou gozaimashita (???????????).



To thank a taxi driver in Japan, the standard and most polite phrase is "Arigato gozaimashita" (thank you for what you have done). Since the service has concluded, using the past tense "mashita" is more appropriate than the present "masu." For a slightly more casual but still respectful touch, you can simply say "Domo" or "Domo arigato" as you exit. It is also customary to give a slight bow or a polite nod of the head. Remember that Japanese taxi doors are automated and operated by the driver, so you should never try to close the door yourself; simply say your thanks and step away. Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can lead to confusion or the driver following you to return the "lost" money. A sincere verbal thanks and a respectful demeanor are the highest forms of appreciation you can show for the driver's professional service.

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A simple gesture of appreciation can go a long way. Next time you step out of a taxi, make eye contact with your driver and offer a warm smile accompanied by a genuine “thank you.” These words may seem small, but they hold immense power in acknowledging the hard work and commitment of these individuals.

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If you want to get to your destination quickly, you could say “I'm really in a hurry, so can you take the quickest route please?” If you have more time free and want to do some sightseeing, you could say “Can we drive past (famous place) on the way?”

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Tell them (or show them) where you want to go. You can say the name plus ??????? (onegaishimasu). If you show them an address, you can say ?????????? (koko e itte kudasai).

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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.

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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 ...

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Stop Here or Stop here, please is fine, especially if both of you are speaking English as a second language.

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Here are a few ways to thank another driver on the road:
  1. Wave or give a friendly hand gesture.
  2. Flash your headlights.


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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.

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Although at certain times of the day, or for short journeys, they might be a good option, Japanese taxis are among the most expensive in the world. Each company decides its own prices, but in the end, they tend to be quite similar. The normal prices are: First two kilometers: ¥ 730 ( US$ 4.90)

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Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.

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When travelling in Japan, a person will likely come across many of the following banknotes: 1,000 yen – This roughly equates to an American $10 bill and is the lowest value of any Japanese banknote in circulation. This bill is typically used by office workers to pay for lunch.

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Tipping in Japan is not customary. Indeed, as stated in many Japan travel guide, attempting to tip staff can be offensive. If you do try and tip in Japan, you will find in most cases that the tip is politely refused as tipping is not part of the Japanese culture and not expected.

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Taxis in Japan have a sign on their roof that says “??” (kusha), which means “available” in Japanese. When you see a taxi with this sign, simply wave your hand to signal the driver that you want to ride.

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Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit cards are usually accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities. The weather in Japan can vary wildly depending on where you are traveling to. Find out the best times to visit and what to pack.

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