When exploring in Tokyo city area, using subway is the best way although most tourists from overseas use a taxi or your own car in your city. Because in Tokyo, a subway is inexpensive, very punctual, clean inside/outside and safe. We have 13 lines in Tokyo.
However, when you are tired or you or one of your group members has difficulty in walking, I recommend you to get on a taxi. The most taxi driver doesn't handle English, but they are very polite, and never tell a lie on the fare and never make a detour.
● Fare;
The first 1.052 kilometers is 410 yen, plus 80 yen every 237 meters or 80 yen every 90 seconds for slow driving. During 22:00-05:00, we have to pay a 20% increase. You needn't give a tip to the driver.
When you hire a van for 10 tourists you have to pay about 50,000-70,000 yen a day.
● How to get a taxi;
You can get a taxi at the taxi stand near the railroad station or on the streets raising your hand (see picture) when you can see the sign of the red letter (see the white circle in the picture) at the front window.
● Getting on / off a taxi;
We should always get on a taxi from the rear left door. The door is automatic. Leave the open and close to a driver. You should not touch the door and should not get on or off from the left door.
●Seat capacity;
Seat capacity for the passenger is 4, 1 next to the driver and 3 in the rear seat.
● Baggage;
Japanese taxi doesn't charge any extra money for transporting your baggage in the trunk.
● Destination;
It's better to show your destination written down in Japanese to the driver. You can ask the hotel staff to write down it.
Please feel free to ask me anything regarding the article.
Masato, a certificated National Tour Guide, GoWithGuide.
