FAQ

The Japanese word "haiyā" comes from the English "hire". It is a service in which you charter a car together with a chauffeur to suit your needs.

It can be used for anything from short trips of under an hour or 10 km to long multi-day journeys of three or four days. Overnight trips incur an additional charge for the chauffeur's accommodation.

Prices depend on the time and distance. Some companies also add a charge for driving to and from the garage. We compare quotes from several companies and propose a price that fits your needs.

Chauffeur cars run to the time and schedule booked in advance, so major changes are not possible. Please discuss minor changes, short detours or extending your time with the chauffeur on the day. Extensions requested by the customer are charged.

Yes, a child seat can be fitted on request. There is usually no extra charge, though this varies by company. Please note it under "Other notes" in the quote request form.

Yes. Please let us know under "Other notes" in the quote request form.

Hire cars are available by reservation only. They are usually black and have no roof sign like a taxi.

Taxis charge a late-night rate, but because a hire car is chartered, there is as a rule no surcharge for late-night or early-morning use. Hire cars are widely used for business and ceremonial occasions, and offer a calm, comfortable ride.

Popular choices are sedans (Lexus, Crown, Mercedes-Benz) and, for larger groups, the Alphard (up to 6) and HiAce (up to 9). If you have a lot of luggage, please choose a vehicle to match.Our Fleet for details.

Yes, we can arrange a Rolls-Royce. If you have a preferred model, please enter it under "Preferred vehicle" in the quote request form.

As a rule, payment is in advance by bank transfer. Some companies also accept payment to the chauffeur on the day (cash, credit card or taxi vouchers), though large amounts may not be accepted.

Prior approval is required. Please contact us first.

Tolls and parking are usually charged separately, paid by you on the day or settled afterwards. Some companies can use your ETC card, or include these costs in the quoted price. Please check your quote or the invoice at the time of booking.

Yes, English, Chinese and Korean-speaking chauffeurs can be requested. Some companies offer this free of charge, while others charge extra. As the number of such chauffeurs is limited, please book early.

A chauffeur or staff member holds up a name board and greets you in the airport arrivals hall.

At Narita and Haneda airports there is an extra charge (from 3,000 yen). At some airports it is free. During peak periods such as New Year and Golden Week, we may not be able to accept requests.