Taxis, Kyoto

* Since May 17, 2002 the Shinpuhkan is also operating the new Velo Taxi - bicycle taxis imported from and based on those running in Berlin. No Velo taxis run during February and March otherwise they operate from 1-5pm and can be waved down anywhere in central Kyoto namely around the following streets: Karasuma, Ayanokouji, Teramachi and Oike. Cost is 300Yen per adult, 200Yen for children aged 2-6.

picture from: http://www.pluto.dti.ne.jp/~himeko/VELO_TAXI_in_Kyoto.html

To be honest, in this city I did not needed to use any taxi as all other measures of transportations were working perfectly so we didn't needed to use any taxi. But the good point is that in many locations taxi's are easily available just in case you need one.

During my experience in Kyoto, the simplest way to get around is by taxi, though busses are good as well. Obviously, being a city with many famous sights, you will want to see everything possible... and as long as you know the names of where you want to go, cab drivers can and will take you to your desired spot. Also, in some areas you can walk from site to site, which can save a good amount of yen. Busses are nice, but knowing which one(s) to take can be a hassle... Especially if you don't know Japanese. I recommend taxis.

If you're a party of 4, sometimes it's more economical to travel in a taxi/cab around Kyoto city rather than taking the bus. There are many taxis in Kyoto but they all charge differently. To find out how much the starting rate is, look for the price stickers located on the left back passenger window.

The cheapest ones start at Yen570 (US$4.73). Avoid the black ones which start at Yen640 (US$5.32).

We found that taxis were only an option when you're stuck with a load of luggage and you're not "backpacker budget" enough to lug your belonging half way across town. While it may be tempting to just hail a taxi and jump in you'll still have to pay at least 550 yen for the first few kilometers. If you must use a taxi you'll have to cue in line outside the JR stations. If you're not near a taxi stand then you may hail a passing taxi. The drivers are usually extremely courteous & are dressed in a suit with white gloves. Their taxis are immaculate, unlike anything you'll ride in here in the US. Don't ever open the rear door from the backseat because the driver controls when the door is opened...they are automated.

When You are cruising around Kyoto..if you have a few folks in your group as your taxi driver if you can hire them for the day/several hours. With 4 people in each cab, we were able to arrange to have a cab for about 8 hours at the rate of 8000 YEN. that comes out to about US$20 per person. WELL worth it as you get right to your temple, enjoy the experience, come out and can go on to your next. Very convenient and very wise, since taxis' won't usually be haning around the temple and calling them will take time. In addition, if you have some japanese or are with someone who does, you might get some nice tips and advice.

Taxis are expensive... but sometimes convenient. From Kyoto Station to the city center is a 5-10minute ride and costs about 600Yen. The big black ones are more comfortable and don't cost any more!

This is a view of Marutamachi street, due east.

In Kyoto there are many different taxi companies. And you will find a taxi very easy. A big taxistand is at the Kyoto station.

Fares start at 620 Yen for the first two kilometers.