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One of the biggest challenges that most tourists and travellers face is language barrier, especially in countries where English is not the first language. Imagine trying to catch a ride, but the driver doesn’t understand where you want to go, and you can’t read the street signs around you. Sounds stressful, right?
In a bustling city like Osaka, where most taxi drivers speak only Japanese, these situations are pretty common. Luckily, with the right tools, a little preparation, and being patient, you can still manage to get around Osaka easily and stress-free. Here are some tips;
One of the best and most convenient ways to get a taxi without a language barrier is by using a smartphone app that supports English. These apps do all the hard work for you. In Osaka, you have a few options:
This is one of the most popular taxi apps in Japan. It is available in English and allows you to enter your pickup and drop-off location in the app. There is no need for verbal communication. Just hop in and go. It also shows you the estimated fare and the car’s arrival time.
Uber is a global ride-hailing service. It also works in Osaka, though it is not as widely used as in some other countries. When you do find an available Uber, the app makes it easy to book without language issues. You will see the driver’s name, car model, and estimated cost before the ride even begins. Some Uber drivers may know basic English, but you don’t really need to explain anything. They can just follow the address shown on the app.
Another user-friendly taxi-hailing app that supports English. It is a good alternative if JapanTaxi or Uber isn’t working for you. It also offers in-app payment and GPS tracking, so you can follow your journey in real time.
Using apps not only avoids awkward language confusion but also ensures you reach the correct destination without needing to explain it out loud.
Most hotel staff, especially in cities like Osaka, can speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need a taxi.
This is simple, reliable, and ideal if you are not comfortable using apps or going out to flag a cab on the street.
Translation apps can make your ride smooth, even if your driver doesn’t speak a word of English. Google Translate is the most popular option. Just type in your destination in English, translate it into Japanese, and show it to the driver. There is also a voice feature that lets you speak in English, and the app speaks the translated version in Japanese, which is great if you want to say something more than just an address.
Other apps you can use include Papago, iTranslate, and even LINE, which is widely used in Japan and supports translation features.
Finding an English-speaking taxi driver in Osaka might be challenging at first, but there are always ways around it. You can use taxi apps and do everything on the app, from inputting your address to making payments. You can also ask for help from your hotel. These are safe and reliable options, and you might not even need to communicate directly with the driver.
Alternatively, translation apps can make everything easier. Whether you are heading to Osaka Castle, Dotombori, or just trying to catch a ride after a night out, these apps have got you covered.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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