Collins Dictionaries - Collins Gem

Taxi

Japanese taxis are safe, clean and operate on meters. The basic fee is based on the vehicle size. For different sizes of taxi, you can ask for 小型 (kogata) for up to four passengers and 中型 (chuugata) for up to five. It can be rather expensive but there is no need to tip. There are taxi stands at stations and major hotels but taxis can also be hailed from the roadside. You can identify whether a taxi is available by the sign 空車 (kuusha) displayed in the front windscreen. All the doors are automatically operated by the driver. There are many regional taxi companies, and vehicles vary in colour depending on the company.

Boat and ferry

Japan Railways (JR) run ferry services on certain routes where the JR Pass can be used. There is a good ferry network in Japan linking the various islands. Ferries can be used as an alternative to trains if you wish to travel between the islands and have time to spare. During the holidays some lines can be very busy, so if you are driving it is advisable to book a place in advance.

Air travel

At the airport, most signs are written in both Japanese and English. Most of the airport staff understand and speak some English. The three biggest airports are Narita, Kansaiand Haneda. You can find airport details by visiting www.narita-airport.jp, www.kansai-airport.jpand www.haneda-airport.jp.

Customs control