Researched guide · Checked on Nov 9, 2026
Taxis in Tokyo are clean, safe and metered, and the doors open by themselves. They cost more than trains, but they are useful late at night, with heavy luggage, or for short hops with a small group. This guide covers fares, how to hail or call a taxi, paying, and the airport fixed fares.
Quick answer
Fare: ¥500 for the first 1.0 km, then ¥100 for every 232 m (23 wards, Musashino and Mitaka).
Late night: 20% extra from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Tips: not needed. Most taxis take credit cards.
How much does a taxi cost?
| Item | 23 wards, Musashino, Mitaka | Tama area |
|---|---|---|
| First 1.0 km | ¥500 | ¥500 |
| After that | ¥100 per 232 m | ¥100 per 211 m |
| Slow traffic (under 10 km/h) | ¥100 per 1 min 25 sec | ¥100 per 1 min 20 sec |
| 10 p.m. – 5 a.m. | 20% extra | 20% extra |
| Long distance | 10% off the amount over ¥9,000 | 10% off the amount over ¥9,000 |
- These are the maximum fares in the Tokyo Hire-Taxi Association’s rate table. Highway tolls are extra and paid by the passenger.
- If you order a taxi to pick you up, each company adds its own pick-up charge.
- Taxi meters are regulated by law and inspected every year.
How to get a taxi
- Hail one on the street: check the sign on the dashboard to see whether the taxi is free.
- Taxi stands: large stations and hotels have taxi stands where you wait in line.
- Apps: taxi apps such as GO or Uber let you call a taxi, set your destination and pay in the app. See our essential apps guide.
- Most taxis do not allow smoking, and ride-sharing with strangers is not offered by the main Tokyo operators.
Tips for the ride
- Do not open or close the door yourself. The driver does it.
- Show your destination on a map or in Japanese. Our Japanese phrases guide has useful lines.
- No tipping. Pay the amount on the meter.
Airport taxis: fixed fares
There are fixed fares between Haneda Airport and set zones of Tokyo, and between Narita Airport and Tokyo. Highway tolls are added, and the late-night premium applies from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Fixed fares to and from Narita need an advance reservation, and conditions depend on the zone, so check the association’s pages or ask the taxi company before you ride. For trains and buses, see our Haneda and Narita guides.
FAQ
How much is a taxi in Tokyo?
The first 1.0 km costs ¥500, then ¥100 for every 232 m in central Tokyo. There is a 20% surcharge from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Do I tip taxi drivers in Tokyo?
No. Tips are not necessary.
Can I pay by credit card in a Tokyo taxi?
Yes. Most taxi companies in Tokyo accept credit cards.
How do I know if a taxi is free?
Check the sign on the dashboard. The lantern on the roof also helps.
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Sources
Fares, rules and fixed-fare information come from the Tokyo Hire-Taxi Association (checked November 9, 2026). Fares can change, so please check before you ride.
