Japan enjoys a reputation as a safe and welcoming country. It placed 17th in the latest Global Peace Index, and a survey conducted by its National Police Agency in October 2023 revealed that 64 percent of tourists feel safe during their visits. Another study showed it was No. 14 in the 2023 most visited countries list, while Filipino travelers ranked it 5th in a survey by a tour booking platform. However, beneath this veneer of safety lurks a concerning trend: the proliferation of illegal taxi services targeting unsuspecting foreign tourists.  

Identifying Legitimate Taxis: Green Plates vs. White Plates

A key piece of advice for travelers in Japan is to be vigilant when choosing transportation. Legally licensed taxis in Japan are easily identifiable by their green license plates. Private vehicles, on the other hand, display white license plates (known as “shirotaku”). According to Pinoys Everywhere, a Filipino community organization in Tokyo, any vehicle with a white plate offering transportation services is operating illegally.  

“If a vehicle has a white plate, it is not for business or service. It means it has no company affiliation nor is it a registered business. If something bad happens or it gets involved in an accident, even innocent passengers will be questioned,” explains Jed dela Vega, president of Pinoys Everywhere. “Cheap doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve got a great deal. Think of what would happen if you’re availing of an illegal service,” he added.

The Risks of Using Illegal Taxis

The dangers of using unlicensed taxis are numerous. Passengers may face canceled bookings, losing the money they paid for the ride. As dela Vega warns, “Money spent on this illegal operator will be lost. An illegal operator is concerned only with money. If you’re a tourist who will avail of this service even if you know it’s illegal, you are contributing to the crime.” More seriously, in the event of an accident, passengers in illegal taxis have no insurance coverage. Legal taxi services, in contrast, provide substantial compensation – as much as 80 million yen, or about USD500,000 – in case of accidents.

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Recent Crackdowns and Ongoing Concerns

Japanese authorities have stepped up efforts to combat illegal taxi operations, particularly at major airports and tourist hotspots. In February, the Asahi Shimbun reported that Tokyo police arrested five Japanese and Chinese nationals on suspicion of operating unlicensed taxis catering to foreign tourists at Haneda Airport. Two of the five suspects used an accommodation reservation website to pick up passengers while the others victimized travelers who used a Chinese car-hailing app. At airports, transport ministry officials hand out fliers in English and Chinese stating “Beware! Unlicensed taxis are illegal and unsafe!” Mitsuteru Yanase, head of the transport ministry’s Chiba branch office, emphasized the importance of authorized transportation, stating, “To ensure safe travel, we want travelers to use (authorized) taxis and hired vehicles that are well managed.” Despite these efforts, the problem persists, fueled by online booking platforms and car-hailing apps that sometimes facilitate these illegal services.  

Protecting Yourself: Tips for Travelers

  • Look for the green license plates: Always ensure that the taxi you are taking has green license plates.
  • Be wary of overly aggressive touts: Avoid individuals who approach you offering suspiciously cheap rides.
  • Use official taxi stands or reputable apps: Stick to designated taxi stands or use licensed ride-hailing apps like Uber, which only partner with authorized taxis in Japan.
  • Report suspicious activity: If you encounter an illegal taxi service, report it to the authorities. The Metropolitan Police Department Traffic Investigation Division can be reached at 03-3581-4321.

Prioritizing Safety for a Positive Travel Experience

“Your safety should be your top priority,” dela Vega reiterates. “We love Japan and we want our fellow Filipinos to have the best experience while here.” By being aware of the risks and taking necessary precautions, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Japan. Remember, choosing a legitimate taxi service not only protects you but also helps combat illegal operations that undermine the safety and security of all.

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