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🚃 Getting Around

Taxis in Japan: the door opens by itself

Do not touch the door, do not tip, and how to show the driver where you are going.

Avoid these

  1. Grabbing the door

    The rear door is automatic. Pulling or slamming it can break it — step back and let it open.

  2. Tipping the driver

    There’s no tipping in Japan. Pay the meter exactly; tipping only causes confusion.

  3. Assuming English

    Many drivers speak little English. Show the address or a map pin on your phone.

Do exactly this

  1. Let the door open

    Stand back — the driver opens and closes the rear door for you.

  2. Show your destination

    Hand over the address in Japanese, or point to the map pin on your phone.

  3. Pay by the meter

    Cash or IC card / credit usually works. No tip — just take your change.

The phrase locals love

jidou-doa

The door opens by itself. Japanese taxi rear doors are automatic — don’t touch them. Step back, wait, and walk in like you knew all along.

📍 the moment the taxi pulls up