Kyoto City Taxi Guide: Convenient Rides for Sightseeing & Travel

Taxis are one of the most convenient transportation options in Kyoto. They are especially useful for reaching places that are difficult to access by train or bus, or when carrying large luggage. This guide provides detailed information about Kyoto taxis, including their features, how to use them, and payment methods.

1. Features of Kyoto Taxis

Kyoto taxis offer services that are easy to use, even for tourists.

• Clean and Comfortable: The interiors are well-maintained, and most drivers provide courteous service.

• Automatic Doors: In Japan, taxi doors open and close automatically, so there is no need to operate them yourself.

• Non-Smoking Vehicles: All taxis in Kyoto are non-smoking.

• Credit Cards & IC Cards Accepted: Many taxis accept electronic payments, though some still require cash.

• No Tipping Required: Tipping is not a common practice in Japan.

2. Taxi Companies

There are over 60 taxi companies operating in Kyoto. Here are five of the major ones:

• Yasaka Taxi (YASAKA TAXI , Kyoto Japan - Sightseeing and Airport Shuttle)

• MK Taxi (Taxi | MK Limousine & Taxi Service, Kyoto | Japan)

• Miyako Taxi (For sightseeing in Kyoto, contact Miyako Taxi Co.)

• Daiichi Kotsu Taxi (タクシーで京都観光) *only Japanese web site

• Rakuto Taxi (RakutoTaxi)

Kyoto taxis are accustomed to serving tourists, so you can feel safe taking any of them.

3. Estimated Taxi Fares

Most taxi companies in Kyoto have an initial fare of around 500–700 yen (for 1.2–1.5 km). After that, the fare increases based on the distance traveled.

• Late-night fares (from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM) are about 20% higher than daytime fares.

• Pickup fee (when calling a taxi) varies by company but is typically 200–400 yen.

4. How to Use a Taxi

(1) Using a Taxi Stand

Taxi stands are available at Kyoto Station and major tourist spots, where you can board a waiting taxi.

• Main taxi stands: Kyoto Station, Shijo Kawaramachi, Gion, Arashiyama, etc.

(2) Hailing a Taxi on the Street

You can hail an available taxi on the street by raising your hand. Look for taxis with the “Vacant” (空車) sign displayed on the windshield.

(3) Using a Taxi App

You can also call a taxi using a smartphone app.

• Available taxi apps:

  • GO

  • Uber

  • DiDi

(4) Calling a Taxi by Phone

You can request a taxi by calling a taxi company directly.
However, it may be difficult to communicate in languages other than Japanese.

5. Special Taxi Services

(1) Large Taxis (Jumbo Taxis)

• These taxis accommodate 7–9 passengers.

• More spacious than regular taxis, making them ideal for groups or travelers with large luggage.

• Reservation required, and fares are higher than standard taxis.

(2) Private Hire Taxis (Sightseeing Taxis)

• These taxis offer sightseeing plans with drivers who act as tour guides.

• Available in 2-hour, 3-hour, half-day, or full-day plans with time-based fares.

• Offered by major taxi companies and require advance booking.

6. Payment Methods

• Cash: Accepted in all taxis.

• Credit Cards: Most taxis accept major cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.).

• IC Cards (Transport Cards): Many taxis accept nationwide IC cards like Suica, ICOCA, and PASMO.

• QR Code Payments: Some taxis accept various QR code payment options like PayPay.

Conclusion

Taxis in Kyoto provide a convenient way to travel, especially for sightseeing. Depending on your needs and group size, you can choose from standard taxis, jumbo taxis, or sightseeing taxis. Using taxi apps can also help ensure a smooth ride experience!