Paid Volunteer Taxis
A “paid volunteer” taxi service was started to help people get around because public transportation in Kamikatsu is limited, and professional taxi service is no longer available due to depopulation.
The Kamikatsu Paid Volunteer Transportation Service started in 2003 to provide access to bus stops, health clinics, and shops after the only taxi company in town closed in 2002. An association called Hidamari currently operates the service. Registered drivers transport passengers in privately owned vehicles and tend to be very familiar with Kamikatsu, so many can seem like tour guides, although language support could be limited.
Roads in Kamikatsu do not have English signs, and there are many narrow, single lane, winding mountain roads without guardrails. The volunteer taxi may be a less stressful option than renting a car for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Note: Use of the volunteer taxi service requires filling out an application form (English form available) and payment of an annual fee of ¥1,000 per person or a one-time usage fee of ¥300 per person, with a ¥300 pick-up fee in addition to the fare. Inquire with Hidamari regarding fares. Reservations are required.
Contact:
Hidamari
Hours: 9:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. (closed Thursdays)
Tel: +81-90-7627-4455
