Uber in Tokyo: Everything you need to know

Whether you’re going to or from the airport or need an in-city ride – you can find all the information you need about using Uber in Tokyo, alternative transport options, and which is the best choice for you right here.

Is there Uber in Tokyo?

Yes, Uber is available in Tokyo. The ride-hailing app operates in cities all over Japan, including travel favourites, Tokyo, Chiba and Kyoto. There are some limitations, however, since the app currently only connects passengers to local taxi drivers and premium vehicles. There are plans to review this in the near future to include independent drivers.

When booking an Uber in Tokyo, you’ll have the choice of a regular taxi that seats up to 4 passengers, plus two premium options, Premier and Premier Van. Note that there is no Uber Black Van in Tokyo as it is known as Premier Van, although it still offers the same services with comfortable leather interiors, highly-rated drivers, and room for up to 5 passengers. Likewise, the Premier option is similar to Uber Black and seats up to 4 passengers.

How much is Uber in Tokyo?

Since Uber prices are calculated using local taximeter rates, they are generally more expensive than a regular taxi. This is because a pickup fee and business surcharge fee may be added to your fare by the taxi company (remember Uber in Tokyo simply schedules you with a local taxi driver). The cost of this varies between companies and it is not included in the price estimate shown on the app before booking. So, if you’re tossing up whether an Uber or taxi in Tokyo is the cheaper option, the answer would be a regular taxi. 

Nevertheless, when booking a taxi through Uber, a standard taxi is the most affordable option which will set you back around €44 (JPY 7,600) before fees are added when travelling from Tokyo Airport to Tokyo city centre. For smaller trips around town, you’ll pay around €12 (JPY 2,000).

*Tolls and surcharges may be added to your final fare for Taxi and Uber rides.

Alternatives to taking an Uber in Tokyo

From the airport

Private transfers are the most seamless way to travel to and from Tokyo’s busy airports. If you book with Welcome Pickups, you’ll be met with an English-speaking driver on arrival so you don’t need to worry about the language barrier or navigating the public transport system. When you pre-book your airport taxi, prices are fixed with no hidden extras and you’ll pay in advance so you can simply hop in your vehicle and be on your way to your hotel quickly and hassle-free. 

It’s still possible to book an Uber from Haneda or Narita Airport, however, if prices are surging, your ride can end up being pretty costly. Your driver will let you know where to meet them, or you can follow the signs at the airport to the pick-up zone.

Taxis are also a popular choice from either airport into the city centre. You’ll have the choice of a standard metered taxi or a fixed-fare taxi; you’ll find both available 24/7. At Haneda Airport, taxi stands are located on the 1st Floor at Terminals 1, 2, and 3, as well as the 2nd and 3rd Floors outside the Access Hall at Terminal 3. Note that each stand is dedicated to certain areas in the city. At Narita Airport, you’ll find them outside the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 1-3, or near the pedestrian walkway. 

Getting around Tokyo

Other than using Uber to book a taxi, you can also hail one from the street (look for a red light on the dashboard), pick one up from a taxi stand, phone a company directly to arrange a pickup, or book one through an app. If you’re looking for a taxi rank, outside train stations is a good place to start!

While most taxi drivers in Tokyo speak a little English, it can be reassuring to enter your address into an app to ensure there is no confusion. Aside from Uber, other popular ride-hailing apps include Go (the most popular) and Didi. Keep in mind that some services require a Japanese number in order to register.

Lastly, Welcome Pickups also offers private transfer services within the city, where you can take advantage of the same 5-star service with guaranteed on-time pickups, English-speaking drivers and competitive fixed fare rates. 

Is Uber safe in Tokyo?

Since most Uber rides are provided by regular taxi drivers who are government-regulated and required to uphold certain standards, Uber is very safe to use in Japan. Furthermore, Uber has its own policies that drivers must follow, and passengers can rate their service, providing insight to future riders. Passengers can also share their ride in real-time with their loved ones who can follow their route on the in-app map, plus all payments can be made through the app so there is no need to carry lots of cash.

Travelling around Tokyo: Uber, Taxi, or Private Transfer?

When it comes to choosing the best option, you should think about the specific needs of you or your group. We’ve gathered some of the most important factors to consider below, so that you can make an informed choice.

FAQs

Is Uber safe in Tokyo

Yes, Uber is very safe to use in Tokyo and has several safety features built into the app. Passengers can view their driver’s rating before accepting a ride, share and follow their journey in real-time, and pay for their ride through the app with a credit or debit card to eliminate the need for carrying cash.

Can you take Uber from Tokyo Airport

Yes, it’s possible to take an Uber from both airports in Tokyo. Your driver will send you a message with his or her location. If you’re arriving at Haneda Airport, you can simply follow the signs to the pick-up area.

Is Uber expensive in Tokyo?

Since Uber only offers Premium ride services in Tokyo it is generally more expensive than a regular taxi. Furthermore, while it connects passengers to regular taxi services, passengers will be charged an additional pick-up fee which is not added when you book directly with a taxi company or hail a taxi from the street.