Unlicensed vs Licensed Chartered Service in Japan
Kathrine
3-Nov-2025

 

Last time, we covered a blog post on “How to Get the Right Travel Help for Your Japan Trip” to assist our travelers. Today, we would like to extend more on the travel tips that are most frequently asked by our customers.

“Why is your chartered service so expensive ah?”

We get it! Let us solve your biggest confusion here. First of all, it is no surprise to see all kinds of prices for any services/products on the market. It could range from very cheap to very expensive, depending on the value provided. In Japan, different car plate colours can tell you if it's a licensed (legal) or unlicensed (illegal).

Licensed Green Car Plates

They are licensed hire drivers in Japan, authorized to transport passengers around. Everyone on board the vehicle is fully insured.

Unlicensed White Car Plates (ILLEGAL!)

These are usually foreign illegal drivers who are unable to provide insurance for their passengers, and your private insurance may not cover you in case of a road accident if you're riding with the driver!

At Tabigo Japan, we guarantee that all of our chartered services use licensed (green) vehicles to prioritize our customers' safety. Apart from that, factors like the cleanliness and reliability of the vehicles, as well as the driver's attitude and service, contribute to the differences in prices.

Why choose private chartered service?

As a trusted supplier, we are your dedicated travel partner, committed to prioritising your comfort, enjoyment, and safety every step of the way. Drawing on our deep local expertise, we navigate Japan's intricate roadways, cultural nuances, and the unique needs of our travellers with ease.

Pros:

  • ✓ Personalisation and flexibility - can be tailored to your itinerary, preferences, and pace
  • ✓ Comfort and safety - drivers are experienced and knowledgeable about the best routes
  • ✓ Travelling with elderly family members or infants – no more knee pain or exhausting journeys
  • ✓ Travellers who want to explore rural or local Japan – local recommendations from driver guides
  • ✓ No language barriers - multilingual support to bridge the communication gap
  • ✓ Cost-effective car service – toll & fuel charges included, no hidden fees

Cons:

The only con here is the budget. But here’s a tip: We charge per vehicle instead of per person, so the fewer people you have, the higher the cost per head. Don’t forget inquiries are always FREE!

We hope this article helps you understand more when it comes to choosing a service that suits your needs. While traveling abroad is always exciting and fun, it is essential to remain mindful of the safety regulations and insurance requirements unique to each destination. We hope you will have a safe trip travelling in Japan! 🤗

Tabigo Japan is opening booking for 2025/2026 Winter and 2026 Spring. Contact us now if you are seeking for professional help for booking or itinerary planning!