News On Japan

Ridesharing to Operate 24/7 Across Osaka During Expo Period

OSAKA, Dec 20 (News On Japan) - General drivers will be allowed to operate paid rides, commonly referred to as "ridesharing," throughout Osaka Prefecture on a 24/7 basis during the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Currently, ridesharing services in Osaka are limited to specific areas, such as Osaka City and its surroundings, and can only operate during designated times, such as Friday and Saturday evenings.

Osaka Prefecture had previously petitioned the national government to relax these regulations, citing an expected shortage of taxis during the Expo period. At a meeting held on December 19th, it was decided that from April to October next year, including the Expo period, ridesharing will be permitted across all areas of Osaka Prefecture, operating daily and around the clock.

Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura stated, "Among the ridesharing services available nationwide, I believe this is a significant step forward."

Trial operations will begin gradually starting December 20th.

Source: YOMIURI

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

During an employee briefing held at 5:30 p.m. today, Fuji TV Chairman Kano expressed his apology, stating, "President Minato and I have been leading the efforts, but there were deficiencies in our judgments."

Three people were attacked near JR Nagano Station at around 8 p.m., leaving a man in his 40s in a state of cardiopulmonary arrest and two others hospitalized.

YouTuber Aoki Kanon, a former announcer, has revealed allegations of harassment by a senior official at Fuji TV. A post she shared on the social media platform X just a week ago drew widespread attention, garnered over 5 million views in just two days, sparking public outrage.

Naoya Inoue, the unified world super bantamweight champion across four major boxing organizations, will face Kim Ye-jun, the World Boxing Organization's (WBO) 11th-ranked contender, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo on January 24th.

Nissan Motor is implementing a workforce reduction plan involving 9,000 employees, with over 70% of the cuts concentrated in production sites, according to a JNN investigation.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Travel NEWS

Saga Airport has become the first in Japan to introduce karaoke booths, offering passengers a unique way to enjoy their wait before flights.

This time, we experienced a Japanese-style private room on the Kintetsu Express “Shimakaze”. Please join us as we experience a journey in a luxurious space that combines Japanese-style design and comfort. (ITSUKA JAPAN)

Cedar pollen dispersal in Tokyo began on January 8th, marking the earliest start since monitoring began in 1985, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Discover the hidden gems of Nara as I explore the historical charm of Asuka and the natural beauty of Yoshino. From ancient temples to stunning mountain scenery, this journey of where old capital used to be takes you off the beaten path to uncover Japan’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. (Tokyo Kenchan)

Unused hotel linens, such as sheets, were transformed into wedding dresses for a sustainability-themed fashion show held on Sunday.

Ginza has transformed into a winter wonderland with its stunning new window displays for the season. (Video Street View Japan)

Kyoto City’s accommodation tax, introduced in 2018, is likely to see an increase, with the maximum rate potentially rising to 10,000 yen.

Kyushu, Japan's southern-most main island, offers rich culture, local delicacies and beautiful natural landscapes, however, many international tourists don't make it here. In this video, we go on a 4-day trip to introduce the island's four largest cities. (japan-guide.com)