🚕 Transport

Getting around after the trains stop
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Taxis

Taxis guide banner

Taxis are the most straightforward option when trains stop running (usually around midnight to 1 AM, depending on the line and day). They're reliable, safe, and available throughout major cities, though costs can add up quickly for longer distances.
In places like Tokyo, you can pretty much walk out to any major street and find a cab -except just after the last train -or when it rains. Around Christmas / New Year’s could also be a huge issue. Just hunker down, go a few more rounds and wait for the cabs to come back or the first train.

How to use:
• Flag down a taxi with a red light (空車, ) in the front windshield and the light on the roof on.
• Taxis with green lights are occupied. Yellow means booked.
• Stand at designated taxi stands near stations for easier pickup
• You can also call a taxi using apps like GO, JapanTaxi or Uber (which connects to local taxis in Japan)
Pricing: Taxis in Japan use meters. Base fare is typically around ¥500-700, then ¥80-100 per 200-300 meters. Late-night surcharges (usually 20% extra) apply between 10 PM and 5 AM in many cities.
Payment: Cash is most common, but many taxis now accept credit cards and IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.). Tipping is not expected or required.
Language: Most taxi drivers speak limited English. They also often have a translation service via an onboard touch-panel. Having your destination written in Japanese or showing it on a map helps. Major hotels and landmarks are usually understood.

Taxi Apps

Uber exists in Japan, but coverage is limited compared to many countries, and availability can be thin depending on the city and time.

A more practical option for most visitors is the GO taxi app, which is widely used in Japan and generally tourist-friendly.

Best practice: Install GO before your trip and set up payment while you're on hotel Wi-Fi.
Tip: If apps fail, you can still flag taxis on major roads or ask staff to call one for you.
📱 Download GO Taxi App

Late-Night Buses

Unlike some countries, Japan has very few late-night city buses. In most areas, once trains stop, public transport options drop sharply.

Don’t plan your night assuming you can catch a bus home at 2:00 a.m. — in many cities, it simply won’t exist (or it will be very limited and infrequent).

Best plan: Assume there are no late-night buses and choose a backup: taxi, capsule hotel, manga café, or sauna.
Tip: If you’re heading far out of the city, decide your “last train” time in advance.

Rental Bikes & Scooters

Shared bicycles are common in many cities, but tourist usability varies. At the moment, the most tourist-friendly option is generally LUUP bikes, because foreigners can usually register and use the service without too much friction.

Scooters are a different story: availability, app setup, and rules can be stricter and more confusing, and not all services are tourist-friendly yet.

Good for: Short distances, getting home after the last train (when you're sober and alert).
Etiquette: Ride predictably, follow local traffic rules, and park only in approved areas.
Tip: If you've been drinking, skip bikes and scooters — use a taxi instead.
📱 Download LUUP App

Designated Driver Services

If you've driven to a nightlife area and had drinks, designated driver services (代行運転, ) will drive you and your car home. This is a common and legal service in Japan, especially popular in areas with limited public transport.

How it works:
• Call a designated driver service (many operate 24/7)
• A driver arrives, takes your keys, and drives you and your car to your destination
• You pay a fee based on distance and time
• The driver then returns to their base (often by taxi or company vehicle)
Cost: Typically ¥3,000-5,000 base fee plus ¥200-300 per kilometer. More expensive than a taxi, but you get your car back at home.
When to use: Best for nights when you've driven to a venue and want to drink without worrying about driving back. Also useful if you're staying outside major city centers where taxis are less common.
Finding services: Search for "代行運転" or "designated driver" in your area. Many services have English-speaking operators. Some izakaya and bars can also arrange this service for you.

Missing the Last Train

Missing the last train (終電, ) is a common experience in Japan's nightlife scene. Trains typically stop running between midnight and 1 AM, and don't resume until around 5 AM.

Your options:
• Stay out until first train: Many people continue at karaoke, 24-hour restaurants, or internet cafés until trains resume
• Take a taxi: Most reliable but can be expensive for longer distances
• Find accommodation: Business hotels, love hotels, or capsule hotels offer late-night check-in
• Wait at a 24-hour place: Convenience stores, internet cafés, or manga cafés provide a place to wait
Planning ahead: Check the last train times for your route before going out. Many apps (like Google Maps or Japan Travel) show last train times. If you're far from home, consider booking accommodation in advance or planning to stay out until morning.
Popular waiting spots:
• Internet/Manga cafés: Private booths, showers, and drinks available
• Karaoke: Many offer late-night packages until morning
• 24-hour restaurants: Family restaurants like Denny's or Gusto
• Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart are open 24/7 with seating areas
Safety note: While generally safe, be aware of your surroundings if waiting in public areas late at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and consider staying with friends if possible.