When searching for taxis in Japan that can accommodate wheelchairs, you'll find several terms like "UD Taxi" or "Care Taxi." However, these two are not the same thing.
Especially for hospital visits, long-distance travel, and airport transfers, your choice significantly impacts your peace of mind during the journey.
Here, we clearly explain the differences in Japan's wheelchair-accessible taxis.
UD Taxi
UD taxis (universal design taxis) are standard taxis designed to accommodate passengers in wheelchairs. They are operated by regular taxi companies running throughout the city.
Features include:
- Accessible via ramp for boarding in a wheelchair
- A regular taxi driver is driving.
- Available via ride-hailing apps
- Assistance is limited
- Only one wheelchair is accommodated as standard.
- May not be suitable for large luggage
Suitable for short-distance urban travel or for those who can move independently.
Care Taxi
Care taxis provide transportation services that include mobility assistance during travel. These vehicles are equipped with electric lifts, and drivers often have experience in caregiving. They operate on a fully reservation-based system.
Features include:
- Vehicles with electric lifts
- Assistance with boarding and disembarking
- Support at steps and building entrances
- Accommodates multiple wheelchairs and large luggage
- Suitable for long-distance travel
- Reservations ensure availability
This service supports your entire move.
Main differences
| UD Taxi | Care Taxi | |
| Competent Ministry | Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism | Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism |
| statutes | Road Transport Act General Passenger Automobile Transportation Business | Road Transport Act General Passenger Automobile Transportation Business (Limited to Welfare Transportation Business) |
| Certifications Held | Class 2 Regular Motor Vehicle License | Class 2 Regular Driver's License Completed Initial Caregiver Training |
| Wheelchair ramp | Yes | Yes |
| Electric lift | None | Yes |
| Assistance with boarding and disembarking | limited | Response |
| Number of wheelchair users | 1人 | Two or more people |
| Number of tour escorts | 1人 | Four or more people |
| Large suitcase | Restrictions apply | At least twice the number of people |
| Long-distance travel | May not be suitable | suitable |
| Reservation | Difficult situations may arise | possible |
| Airport transfer | Depending on the situation | Warranty |
Which is better for airport transfers?
For long-distance travel or time-sensitive trips to airports like Narita or Haneda, a care taxi is often the best option.
Reasons:
- Long travel distance
- It is necessary to adjust to the flight time.
- There are several large suitcases.
- Reservations are required.
- Assistance may be required when boarding or disembarking.
To ensure a safe trip from the airport to the city center, more people are choosing reservation-based care taxis.
For those considering airport transfers
We provide wheelchair transfers from Narita Airport and Haneda Airport to the Tokyo and Yokohama areas.
- Vehicles with lifts
- Accommodates multiple large items
- English reservations and English support services
- Flat-Rate Airport Transfer
For more details, please see the following page.
Summary
In Japan,
UD Taxi = Vehicle equipped with wheelchair access (Accessible car that provides a ramp for wheelchair users)
Care Taxi = Transportation service that assists accessibility of mobility for those with disabilities
There are differences between them. Choosing the right one for your needs enables safer and more comfortable travel.