I was taken aback the first time I rode in a Japanese taxi. I was standing there when suddenly the door opened on its own. I instinctively reached out to close it, but the driver smiled and told me not to touch it. That was my first experience.
This Automatic Taxi DoorsIt is a system that has become widespread only in Japan, out of all the countries in the world. It is not merely a display of automation technology. 1964 Tokyo Olympics Designed to welcome guests from around the world with the utmost courtesy, OmotenashiIt's the physical implementation of that. Let me tell you why we still use this system even now, 60 years later.
An Invention of National Pride: Why Did It Open in 1964?
Automatic Taxi DoorThe history of [country] began as Japan was emerging from the wounds of defeat to become a modern nation, 1964 Tokyo Olympics Let's go back in time. At that time, the Japanese government and the taxi industry were faced with a dilemma. This was because they wanted to show foreign tourists from all over the world just how friendly and polite Japan is.
At the time, the taxi industry considered a service where drivers would get out of the car to open the door for passengers as a way to differentiate their service. However, given the narrow roads in Tokyo, having drivers get out every time disrupted traffic flow and posed a safety risk.
The idea that emerged at that moment was a system for operating the rear doors from the driver's seat. When a passenger is carrying luggage or caught in the rain, it is helpful for the driver to open the door for them in advance— OmotenashiIt was the pinnacle of (anticipating and fulfilling passengers’ needs). First introduced by Osaka’s “Osaka Large Taxi” company, this system saw explosive growth following the Olympics and has now become a standard feature in Japanese taxis.
The Reliability of Analog Over Digital: The Engineering of Manual Levers
Many people Automatic Taxi DoorYou might think it runs on an electric motor, but it’s actually very intuitive Mechanical StructureAnalog systems with [ ] are the mainstream.
Manual Lever System (Linkage System)
A long lever installed on the floor to the left of the driver's seat is directly connected to the rear door via a cable and a metal rod (linkage). When the driver pulls the lever, the physical force is transmitted directly, causing the door to open. This system has the advantages of being less prone to malfunctions and allowing the driver to finely control the speed of operation.
Vacuum and Hydraulic Assist Systems
High-end taxis and newer models use engine vacuum pressure or small motors to provide additional power. However, the final decision still rests with the driver’s fingertips. This is so that even the “speed” at which the door opens in a split second can be adjusted out of consideration for the passenger.
This Mechanical StructureSafety is the key. In Japan, taxi doors open only after the driver has personally checked for pedestrians on the sidewalk and bicycles approaching from behind. This completely prevents “door-opening accidents” caused by passengers opening the doors on their own. It’s a design that combines technology with human judgment.
A Thoughtful Gesture to Prevent Touching the Doorknob
The true value of automatic doors lies not in physical convenience, but in the “psychological consideration” they offer. They embody the intention to spare guests the effort of opening the door and the commitment to cleanliness to protect them from contamination on door handles.
Originating from the Japanese tea ceremony (chadō) culture, OmotenashiHere lies the core principle. The host creates the right environment before the guest even feels any discomfort. The moment you step into a taxi, you feel as though someone has thoughtfully made way for you—and that feeling builds trust in the service as a whole.
"Technology may be cold, but the intent behind it can be warm. Japan's taxi doors are the most courteous machines in the world."
Japanese Taxis: First-Time Riders, Don't Make These Mistakes
Travel to JapanIf you end up taking a taxi there, the fare can be a bit steep. It's definitely more expensive than in Korea. But when public transportation has stopped running at night or when you have a lot of luggage, a taxi is a must. PglemapsIt's convenient to factor in when it's best to take a taxi when planning your route.
1964 Tokyo OlympicsJust remember this one automatic door, which is located here. Never try to hold it open with your hand. It will open on its own if you wait. Just trust the driver. That’s OmotenashiHere's how to enjoy it.
🚖 3 Rules for Japanese Taxis
Do Not Touch (Hands-off) Let the machine handle both opening and closing. No Passengers on the Right Side Only the left side, which faces India, opens automatically. Express your gratitude with a bow. A light bow is the best way to respond to omotenashi.The Moment the Automatic Door Opens
Automatic taxi doors in Japan—you won’t be caught off guard anymore, right? Even if it’s just a short ride, give it a try the next time you have the chance to take a taxi. The moment the door opens, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with a culture of hospitality that began at the Olympics 60 years ago. Be sure to have your destination address ready in Japanese and bring some small change with you.