Limousine Taxi Tokyo: Your Guide to Luxury Transportation and Tours
I want guests from all over the world to enjoy their trip to Japan from Tokyo, where I was born and raised, more elegantly. With this in mind, I'd like to suggest sightseeing by limousine taxi.
From the narrow streets of the city to sightseeing around Hakone and Mt. Fuji, experienced drivers will guide you in a comfortable space. English support is also available, so you can enjoy your trip without language anxiety. While it's true that the fare is higher compared to regular taxis, it's characterized by a fixed rate system that includes waiting time at tourist spots, making it easier to manage your budget.
Whenever I guide foreign guests, I always use a limousine taxi. Because it's a private space a little removed from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, you can fully enjoy the charms of Japan while leisurely enjoying conversation.
In this guide, I'll introduce everything from booking methods to tour plans and important points to note. I hope this will be helpful for your more luxurious and memorable Tokyo trip.
Table of Contents
・What is a Limousine Taxi? Its Charms and Features
・How to Book a Limousine Taxi in Tokyo
・Rules and Points to Note When Using a Limousine Taxi
・Recommended Spots to Visit by Hired Car
・Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Limousine Taxi? Its Charms and Features
First, the greatest charm of a limousine taxi is that you can move in a private space. You can spend relaxed time away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's especially suitable for long-distance travel.
For foreigners, the language barrier can be a major source of anxiety, but with a limousine taxi, there's no need to worry. Many companies allow you to choose a driver who can speak English. In my experience, many drivers are not just drivers but are well-versed in Tokyo and Japanese culture, making for enjoyable conversation during the ride.
In terms of price, while it's certainly more expensive than regular taxis, a characteristic is that many plans are fixed-rate. Since the fare is determined including waiting time at tourist spots, it's easier to manage your budget and you won't be troubled by unexpected expenses. This should be a big source of peace of mind during your trip.
Another attractive point is that it can accommodate large luggage. When I guided foreign friends, I was surprised by the number of suitcases, but a limousine taxi could handle them with ease. It's especially useful for airport transfers.
How to Book a Limousine Taxi in Tokyo
From my own experience of using them many times, I'll introduce the most efficient and reliable booking methods. There are three main booking methods that even foreigners can use with peace of mind.
Using Online Booking Services
For those accustomed to the internet, online booking services are the most convenient. There are many multilingual websites and apps, and you can make reservations 24 hours a day from your smartphone or computer. I myself was helped by this service when I suddenly needed to make a reservation late at night.
It's very easy to use. You can complete your reservation just by specifying the pickup location and destination, and selecting the date and time. In many cases, you can also select the type of car and set additional options. For example, you can specify an English-speaking driver or request the addition of a child seat.
Furthermore, a big advantage is that you can pay in advance with a credit card. This saves the trouble of paying on-site and eliminates worries about exchange rates. A reservation confirmation email is automatically sent, so you can look forward to the day with peace of mind.
Hotel Concierge Service
If you're making a reservation after arriving in Japan, the hotel concierge service is convenient.
At the front desk of luxury hotels, it's possible to arrange a limousine taxi. Hotel concierges are well-versed in local affairs, so you can also consult about reservations combined with sightseeing plans. In my experience, their advice is very accurate and often leads to unexpected wonderful experiences.
However, please note that it may be difficult to arrange at budget hotels like business hotels.
Using Tours
If you want to use a limousine taxi more effectively, I recommend using a sightseeing tour. Many travel agencies offer special tour plans that include a limousine taxi. I've used such tours several times myself, and I was impressed by their comfort and efficiency.
Particularly popular are plans that include standard spots like Hakone and Mt. Fuji. Unlike regular bus tours, you can move in a private space, so you can enjoy the scenery in a relaxed atmosphere.
In many cases, a dedicated guide is also included, so you can listen to detailed explanations of tourist spots during the move. In a tour I experienced, the driver told me about hidden local attractions and delicious restaurants, making the trip more fulfilling than expected.
Being able to effectively use travel time while visiting multiple tourist spots is also a big attraction. For example, it's possible to efficiently sightsee by stopping at a scenic spot of Mt. Fuji while moving from Tokyo to Hakone.
Booking is also easy, and you can reserve plans online using sites like Magical Trip. In my experience, these sites are easy to use, and foreigners should be able to make reservations without confusion.
Rules and Points to Note When Using a Limousine Taxi
There are several important rules and points to note when using a limousine taxi. I've been confused a few times myself, so I'll share some points for smooth use.
First and most importantly, it's crucial to accurately specify the pickup time and location. Unlike regular taxis, limousine taxis operate on a reservation system. When I used one for the first time, I was vague about the meeting place and had trouble contacting the driver. Especially when meeting at large places like airports or hotels, it's recommended to specify a concrete landmark (like in front of XX counter).
Next, it's also important to check the cancellation policy. I had a friend who had to pay a high cancellation fee due to a sudden change of plans. Since plans can change during travel, choosing a company with a flexible cancellation policy is one approach.
It's also important to inform them in advance about the number and size of your luggage. While limousine taxis are more spacious than regular taxis, they still have limits. When I guided a group of foreigners who brought four large suitcases, I contacted them in advance to arrange a large vehicle. Be sure to inform them, especially if you have special luggage like golf bags.
Choosing the right type of vehicle according to the number of people is also important. Typical limousine taxis can accommodate 4 to 6 people, but for larger groups, you need to choose a van type. When I used one for a family trip, we were 7 people including children, so I consulted in advance to arrange an appropriate vehicle.
Lastly, don't forget to confirm the payment method. While credit card payment is common with many companies, some may only accept cash. When I made a reservation for friends from overseas, we almost had trouble because they only had cash. It's good to check in advance and prepare Japanese yen if necessary.
Recommended Spots to Visit by Hired Car
The charm of a limousine taxi isn't just comfortable transportation. It's that you can smoothly access places that are usually difficult to visit or spots you want to enjoy leisurely. From my experience of living in Tokyo for many years, I'll introduce some wonderful spots you should visit by limousine taxi.
Tourist Spots to Visit in Hakone
Hakone is a popular tourist spot about 2 hours from Tokyo. If you use a limousine taxi, you can enjoy sightseeing at your own pace without worrying about crowds. Here are the spots I particularly recommend.
First, you can't miss Owakudani. The impressive landscape created by volcanic activity is a place where you can truly feel the wonders of nature. When I first visited, I was overwhelmed by the smell of sulfur and the sight of white smoke rising. There's also a saying that eating black eggs extends your life by 7 years, which is popular among tourists.
Next, Hakone Shrine is also a place I want you to visit. It's a beautiful shrine standing on the shore of Lake Ashi, and the scenery of the torii gate in harmony with the lake is spectacular. Here, I felt the moment when Japan's traditional culture and natural beauty merge. It's also famous as a power spot, and many people visit to pray for good relationships and fortune.
At Lake Ashi, I recommend relaxing on a sightseeing boat. The view of Mt. Fuji from the lake is exceptional. I visit every season, but the autumn foliage season is breathtakingly beautiful.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-see spot for art lovers. Works by world-renowned sculptors like Picasso and Henry Moore are scattered throughout the vast nature. Every time I visit here, I feel the remarkable harmony between nature and art.
Finally, Hakone Yumoto Onsen is a hot spring area that can be thoroughly enjoyed even on a day trip. There are many day-trip bathing facilities, perfect for relieving travel fatigue. My recommendation is a facility where you can view Mt. Fuji from the open-air bath. The luxury of enjoying a spectacular view while soaking in the bath is truly a unique Japanese experience.
By using a limousine taxi, you can efficiently visit these spots. Because you can spend time in a comfortable space during the move, it's a big advantage that you're less likely to feel tired even during long sightseeing trips.
Highlights Around Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji is a famous place that could be called a symbol of Japan, visited by tourists from all over the world. If you use a limousine taxi, you can leisurely enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji while avoiding crowds. I'll introduce the places I especially recommend.
First, you can't miss the Fuji Five Lakes. Especially the views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka are spectacular. I visit every year in each season, and I'm fascinated by Mt. Fuji showing a different expression each time. If you want to take photos, spring and autumn are recommended when the contrast between the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves by the lake and Mt. Fuji is beautiful.
The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is an excellent spot to enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Mt. Fuji. From the summit station at an altitude of 1000 meters, you can see not only Mt. Fuji but also the Southern Alps and Mt. Yatsugatake. When I first visited, I was speechless at the vast view.
The 5th Station of Mt. Fuji Subaru Line is indispensable as a base for Mt. Fuji sightseeing. From here, you can feel the majesty of Mt. Fuji up close. Every time, I realize the wonder of Japan's nature in this place surrounded by clear air and silence. It's cool and comfortable in summer, but warm clothing is essential.
Arakurayama Sengen Park is a popular photography spot where you can enjoy Mt. Fuji and a five-story pagoda at the same time. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and you can see an exquisite collaboration of Mt. Fuji, the five-story pagoda, and cherry blossoms. When I visited, I was moved by the scenery that looked like a postcard.
Finally, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha is a historic shrine where you can worship Mt. Fuji. As the center of Mt. Fuji worship, many worshippers visit. Here, I strongly felt the Japanese people's awe for nature. Just walking through the quiet precincts is calming.
If you use a limousine taxi, you can efficiently tour these spots. Especially for chasing the appearance of Mt. Fuji that changes moment by moment depending on the weather and season, a mobile limousine taxi is ideal. I've even encountered unexpected scenic points thanks to the driver's advice.
Sightseeing around Mt. Fuji is a wonderful opportunity to experience Japan's natural beauty and cultural depth at once. Take advantage of the comfort and flexibility of a limousine taxi to find your own special Mt. Fuji experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When using a limousine taxi, various questions may arise. I myself had many questions when I first used one. Here, I'll introduce frequently asked questions and their answers.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Limousine Taxi?
It's wise to book a limousine taxi as early as possible. In my experience, it's ideal to make a reservation at least a week in advance. Especially during busy seasons, such as cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (late October to mid-November), I recommend booking even earlier.
When I guided foreign friends, I tried to make a reservation 2 weeks in advance during cherry blossom season, but all the desired dates and times were fully booked, which was troublesome. In the end, I switched to booking a month in advance and was able to successfully arrange it.
However, there may be availability even at the last minute, so it's worth inquiring even in case of sudden schedule changes. I've also been able to make a same-day reservation due to a sudden change of plans.
Do Drivers Speak English?
Many limousine taxi companies allow you to choose an English-speaking driver. However, not all drivers can speak fluent English, so I recommend requesting an English-speaking driver when making a reservation.
In my experience, English-speaking drivers not only can communicate but often understand the needs of foreign tourists well. For example, they often provide more fulfilling services such as explaining Japanese culture and customs, recommending restaurants, and so on.
However, specialized interpretation or detailed guide services may require an additional fee, so it's good to confirm this in advance.
How Many People Can Ride in a Limousine Taxi?
The number of passengers in a limousine taxi varies depending on the type of vehicle. Generally, 4-seater to 6-seater vehicles are mainstream. In my experience, even a 4-seater car was spacious enough and comfortable to spend time in.
However, if you're considering using it for a large group, I recommend choosing a van-type limousine. There are also vehicle types that can accommodate 8 to 10 people. When I used one for a family trip, we used a van type for 7 people, and we were able to ride comfortably including luggage.
Also, it's important to inform in advance if you need child seats. Many companies will prepare them, but as there may be a limited number, early confirmation is necessary.
What Payment Methods Are Available?
Credit card is generally the most common payment method for limousine taxis. Major credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, AMEX, etc.) can be used with most companies. I myself have been able to pay without problems using credit cards issued overseas.
On the other hand, many companies also accept cash. However, as it often becomes expensive, you need to confirm the necessary amount in advance and prepare it. In my experience, when I chose cash payment, I was told an estimated amount at the time of reservation.
Is Tour Customization Possible?
Many limousine taxi companies offer tour customization. Being able to freely set tourist spots and visit times is a big attraction. I've used customized tours several times myself, and I was truly impressed by their flexibility.
For example, when I guided foreign friends, I created a unique tour combining Japanese gardens, sushi restaurants, and electronics stores based on their interests. On another occasion, I requested a demanding schedule to visit Mt. Fuji and Hakone in one day, but the driver suggested an efficient route that allowed us to cover everything without overexertion.
If you wish to customize, I recommend discussing the details when making a reservation. If you tell them the places you want to go and the experiences you want to have, the company will often propose the optimal plan. Also, a big advantage is that you can flexibly change plans according to the weather and traffic conditions on the day.
However, keep in mind that customization may incur additional fees in some cases, so don't forget to confirm the price in advance.
Using a limousine taxi might seem high-class and intimidating at first glance. However, once you actually use it, many people will be attracted to its comfort, convenience, and above all, the special experience it provides.
When using a limousine taxi, please choose a service that suits your needs while referring to the points introduced in this article. I've explained in detail the booking methods, points to note, and recommended spots based on my own experiences. I hope this information will be helpful for your wonderful trip to Japan!
