Minakami Town in Gunma Prefecture will conduct a pilot program for “nighttime taxis” at JR Jomo-Kogen Station on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from August 6 to 29.
At this station, where the Joetsu Shinkansen stops, public transportation options such as local buses and taxis cease to operate during nighttime hours. Securing secondary transportation to hot spring inns, restaurants, and homes has been a challenge; therefore, with the cooperation of local taxi operators, the city will assess the needs for developing a sustainable transportation system for the future.
During this period, two taxis will be on standby at the taxi stand at Jomo-Kogen Station, and passengers can board them immediately upon arrival. Advance reservations and pick-up requests are not accepted, and depending on the timing, all vehicles may be in use. The fare is the same as the standard taxi rate.
Additionally, because the town charters the taxis to operate this service, taxi companies do not issue receipts; if necessary, passengers must contact the Planning Division of the Minakami Town Hall at a later date. Minakami Town is asking users to participate in a survey and plans to use the operational data collected to consider future improvements to the transportation system.
© Source travel watch