Starting August 6th, taxi fares were increased in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, and its surrounding areas due to rising costs like inflation and higher wages. The initial fare limit rose from 600 yen to 700 yen, and many users expressed understanding, saying it’s inevitable.
The fare increase affected Morioka City (excluding former Tamayama Village), Takizawa City, and Yahaba Town. For regular taxis, the initial fare for the first kilometer went from 600 yen to 700 yen. The additional charges, which increase by 100 yen, now apply to shorter distances, changing from 298 meters to 266 meters.
When asked, taxi users indicated that despite the fare hike, they would still rely on taxis because bus services are infrequent and don’t fit their schedules. Some mentioned they might use taxis a bit less.
For instance, a taxi ride from Morioka Station to the prefectural central hospital, roughly 2 kilometers away, now costs around 1400 yen, up from about 1200 yen before the fare increased — a 200 yen rise mainly due to increased traffic.
The fare increase is driven by rising labor costs and inflation. Sixteen taxi operators in the region requested fare hikes by the end of February 2025, prompting the Tohoku Transport Bureau to review their financial situations and approve new fares. This is the first fare increase since December 2022.
The local taxi association stated that they aim to improve services as a key community transportation option and seek public understanding regarding the increase.
by MagazineKey4532