How to Use An Electric Scooter in Japan: LUUP Scooter & More

The Japanese transportation system is getting a lot more convenient.

Electric scooters have been on the rise, growing to over 10,000 electric scooters in Japan, according to CNN.

So when walking becomes tiring, why not take a ride on one of these scooters?

Does Japan allow electric scooters?

LUUP scooters

Yes, electric scooters are legal in Japan. A recent ruling categorized electric scooters as similar to electric bicycles.

Many companies, such as LUUP, Charichari, and Beam, offer electric kick scooters and bicycles for people to use.

But to ride on a scooter in Japan, there are a couple of rules to know.

Electric scooter rules in Japan

Electric scooters have some special rules that differ from owning a bicycle in Japan.

All scooter users: 

• Must be 16 or over to ride.

• Ride at a max speed of 20 kph (about 12 mph).

While helmets are not required, they are highly recommended for safety reasons. 

Similar to bicycling in Japan, scooter users should ride on the street along with cars, but it is okay to ride on the sidewalk. Just be mindful of pedestrians.

The Japan National Police Agency has this great simple PDF about general traffic rules for electric scooters, so take a look: Traffic Rules for Specified Small Motorized Bicycles

LUUP in Japan

What is LUUP?

LUUP, ループ, is a shared e-scooter and e-bicycle service that offers scooters for you to ride. This service is available in most populated areas in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, Kobe, Nagoya, and Hiroshima.

How to use LUUP in Japan

Here is a step-by-step simplified way to get yourself on a LUUP scooter.

For more detailed information, check out the LUUP website: https://luup.sc/en/ 

1. Download the app

Download the LUUP app on the App Store or the Google Play Store.  

2. Complete your registration

Once you have the app downloaded, it’s better to complete the registration process as soon as possible so that you can ride immediately.

You will need 

• Your ID: to verify that you are 16 years old or over.

• Know basic Japanese traffic rules: there is a short traffic quiz to show you know the rules of the road in Japan.

3. Finding and using a LUUP Scooter

Many LUUP scooters have designated parking areas. You can find their locations on the in-app map.

Once you’re there, pick an e-bike or e-scooter you would like to ride. Then you will scan the QR to unlock your vehicle, and you can start to ride.

4. Ending a LUUP Scooter ride

Once you arrive at your destination, find the nearest LUUP port area on the in-app map. Take a picture of your LUUP bike or scooter in the parking area.

Once the app has confirmed everything, you will make an in-app purchase for your ride.

How much does it cost to use a LUUP scooter?

You can get the first 30 minutes of a LUUP ride for free with the coupon, “NEW RIDE.” This coupon is only valid in the city areas of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, Utsunomiya, Kobe, Nagoya, and Hiroshima.

While the cost will vary from city and region, in general, riding on a LUUP vehicle will cost about 200 yen for every 30 minutes.

Charichari in Japan

Charichari is a bike-sharing service, mainly available in Fukuoka around the Tenjin and Hakata area. They also have electric assistance for their bikes for faster peddling.

How do you use a Chari bike in Japan?

If you want to use a Chari bike, you need to download the app and create a new account first.

To start riding, find Charichari parking ports with their app. Once you find a bike you are comfortable with, use the app to scan the QR code to unlock the bike.

To return the bike, return and lock it back in any ChariChari area. From here, you will end the ride and pay for how long you’ve used it for. 

Charichari charges 4 yen per minute, making it 120 yen for every 30 minutes. Instead of paying every time you use their service, one month’s worth of fees is paid in the following month through your credit card. 

For more information, here is their English guide: https://charichari.bike/blog/chari-guide-2023-en 

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a license to drive a scooter in Japan?

No. Under new Japanese rules, anyone 16 and over can drive an electric scooter without a license. But anyone who is under 16 is unable to ride on e-scooters.

Can tourists use LUUP in Japan?

Yes, tourists in Japan can use LUUP and other similar apps as long as you can download them on your phone. Additionally, you do not need a driver's license, you just need to be 16 or over.

In closing

Exploring Japan on an electric scooter or bike has never been easier. LUUP or Charichari offers a convenient and enjoyable service for residents and tourists to navigate through Japan's bustling streets and serene pathways.

Be sure to follow the local regulations and enjoy the ride.