A new ride-sharing service has been introduced in Tokyo, enabling ordinary individuals to offer transportation services using their personal vehicles during peak hours when taxis are in high demand. This Japanese version of ride-sharing differs from well-known services like Uber and Lyft as drivers are contracted through taxi companies, ensuring specific training in passenger transport and work management is provided. The service operates on a limited basis in specific areas and at designated times to supplement existing taxi services.
During the initiation of the service, key figures such as Transport Minister Tetsuo Saito and officials from the Tokyo Hire-Taxi Association participated in a ceremony on April 8 to mark the commencement of the new system. Minister Saito highlighted the importance of prioritizing passenger safety and urged companies to uphold stringent safety standards similar to those of traditional taxis. The government recently lifted the ban on commercial ride-sharing in specified areas, paving the way for the service to expand gradually throughout various regions of Japan.