If you’re wondering whether tourists can use Uber in Japan, you’re not alone. Many visitors assume it works the same way as back home, but Japan’s transportation culture is quite different. As someone born and raised near Osaka, I’ll explain how Uber really works here, what alternatives locals use, and when it’s actually useful—or not—during your trip.
Uber is available in Japan, but only in limited areas.
Most locals use trains, buses, or domestic taxi apps instead of Uber.
Taxi fares are regulated, so price transparency isn’t an issue.
Uber can be handy in certain cases, but it’s rarely the most convenient option.
Is Uber Available in Japan? What Tourists Need to Know
Where Can You Use Uber in Japan?
As of May 2025, Uber operates in 15 prefectures across Japan.
Always check the app before you plan a ride—service areas can change.
Uber mainly works in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya, but even there, coverage can be limited to certain districts.
Current service areas:
| Region | Prefectures |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Hokkaido |
| Tohoku | Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Fukushima |
| Kanto | Tokyo, Kanagawa |
| Chubu | Aichi, Ishikawa |
| Kansai | Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo |
| Chugoku | Hiroshima |
| Shikoku | Kochi |
| Kyushu/Okinawa | Fukuoka, Okinawa |
✅ Even within these prefectures, Uber Taxi may only be available in certain neighborhoods.
Uber in Japan Is Not Ride-Sharing
Unlike in the US or many other countries, Uber in Japan doesn’t pair you with private car owners. Strict government regulations mean almost all Uber rides here are licensed taxis booked through the app.
Why Uber feels different in Japan
Japan is cautious about introducing new transportation systems. With an incredibly efficient and punctual public transit network, there’s less demand for services like Uber. Safety and trust in existing systems—like trains and taxis—are also major factors.
Using Uber in Tokyo and Osaka
Yes, you can use Uber in both cities—but it works primarily as a taxi-hailing app. From my experience, locals rarely use it. Most passengers you see in Uber taxis are tourists.
Cost comparison: Uber vs Taxi vs Public Transport
| Option | Typical Short Ride Cost | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uber | ¥800–¥1,200 (~$5–$8) | Limited (urban areas) | Usually just a licensed taxi booked via app |
| Street Taxi | ¥800–¥1,200 (~$5–$8) | Easy in cities | Regulated prices, clean and safe |
| Train/Subway | ¥190–¥300 (~$1.30–$2) | Extremely reliable | Best for speed and cost |
How Japanese Locals Get Around
Why most Japanese don’t use Uber
Most Japanese people—including myself—don’t use Uber. If I need a taxi, I book through a domestic taxi app. Public transportation is clean, safe, punctual, and inexpensive. Trains avoid traffic delays, which is why urban professionals almost always choose them over taxis.
Taxi apps locals prefer (and you can use too)
If you want an Uber-like experience, try:
GO (by JapanTaxi) – Very popular, especially in Tokyo and Osaka
DiDi – Good support in multiple languages
S.RIDE – Easy to use, decent coverage
These often have better availability and integration with Japan’s taxi network than Uber.
Do You Even Need a Taxi App?
Not necessarily. In most cities, you can:
Find taxis waiting at stations
Ask your hotel to call one
Hail one on the street by raising your hand
However, I recommend using a taxi app if you’re visiting from overseas. It solves language and payment issues, and is especially helpful when:
It’s raining or an event is nearby (taxis may be scarce)
Late at night (fewer taxis available)
Why Public Transit Still Wins
Japan’s trains and subways are among the best in the world—always on time, with English signs, and covering almost every corner of major cities. For most locals, they’re far more practical than taxis or Uber.
Related Articles
The Language Barrier
Many taxi drivers speak little to no English. Showing your destination on a map helps a lot. Most taxi apps and tools like Google Translate also have built-in translation features.
Related Articles
Final Verdict: Should Tourists Use Uber in Japan?
Probably not as your main transport option. With excellent train access, affordable taxis, and reliable taxi apps, most visitors get around easily without Uber. Think of it as a backup, not a primary choice.
FAQ
Comments