Which Japanese Taxi App Should You Use? 4 Popular Options Compared

Which taxi app should you use in Japan? Beyond hailing a cab on the street, using a taxi app is a common and convenient way to get around Japan. Today DJB rounds up 4 popular Japan taxi apps, comparing their supported languages, key features, and who each one suits best — let's find the right one for you!

4 recommended Japan taxi apps

App	GO	JapanTaxi	Uber	DiDi
Coverage	All 45 prefectures of Japan	All 47 prefectures of Japan	Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto	Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto
Languages	Japanese, English	Japanese, English	English	Japanese, English
Fares	Fare estimate available	Fare estimate available	Dynamic pricing, no fixed rate	Regular promotions, relatively affordable
Highlights	AI-powered booking, nationwide coverage	Nationwide coverage	Wide choice of vehicle types	Budget-friendly

1. Recommended Japan taxi app: GO

GO is Japan's largest taxi-hailing app, having surpassed 15 million downloads last year.

What sets GO apart:

- AI-powered booking: schedule a ride anywhere from 15 minutes to 7 days ahead — genuinely convenient.

- Simple sign-up: just register basic details like your name and email to start using it.

- Wide coverage: available across more than 40 prefectures, so you will find GO whether you are in a major city or somewhere more remote.

2. Recommended Japan taxi app: JapanTaxi

JapanTaxi is one of Japan's largest and longest-running taxi-booking platforms, covering all 47 prefectures nationwide.

What sets JapanTaxi apart:

- Wide coverage: whether you are in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or somewhere more remote, JapanTaxi can find you a nearby taxi.

- Transparent pricing: get a fare estimate before booking, so you are never overcharged for being unfamiliar with local rates.

- Advance booking: JapanTaxi lets you book ahead, so an early morning flight never means worrying about finding a cab!

3. Recommended Japan taxi app: Uber

In Japan, Uber mainly operates in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

What sets Uber apart:

- English interface: a fully English interface makes Uber a great option for travellers who do not speak Japanese.

- Choice of vehicle tiers: from economy to premium, choose the vehicle tier that suits your needs.

- One account worldwide: if you already have an Uber account, you can use it straight away in Japan without registering again or re-entering your details.

4. Recommended Japan taxi app: DiDi

DiDi is a taxi-hailing app originating from China that has gradually expanded into the Japanese market in recent years.

What sets DiDi apart:

- Frequent promotions: DiDi regularly offers new-user discount codes, great for travellers on a budget.

- Multiple languages: DiDi's interface supports both Japanese and English, suiting travellers unfamiliar with Japanese.

How do you choose the right taxi app for you?

With so many Japan apps to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Here are three key points to consider — see which app fits you best.

1. Choose based on where you are travelling

- Major cities: all three of the apps above will cover your needs.

- Remote areas: JapanTaxi and GO offer broader coverage.

2. Choose based on language

- If you do not speak Japanese: Uber, DiDi and GO all offer an English option, and Uber's fully English interface is especially convenient for foreign travellers.

- If you know a little Japanese: JapanTaxi also has basic English support, enough to get a ride booked.

3. Choose based on budget

- On a tighter budget: DiDi's promotions are hard to beat, especially the first-time discount, which can meaningfully cut your transport costs on the trip.

- More flexible budget: Uber tends to run a bit pricier, but if you are after a more comfortable ride, its premium vehicle tiers are a solid choice.

Whether you are travelling between cities in Japan or heading out to the countryside for the scenery, downloading the right taxi app matters. Before you go, pick the app that suits you, and grab a DJB Daijobu Unlimited SIM to stay connected to the world wherever you are in Japan!