Transport authorities and Fukuoka Prefectural Police urged foreign tourists visiting Japan for the Lunar New Year holidays not to use unlicensed taxi services known as “shiro-taku.” On February 17, officers and Kyushu District Transport Bureau staff distributed pocket tissues at Fukuoka Airport outlining how to identify illegal operators. Shiro-taku refers to private vehicles that provide paid rides without government authorization, potentially leaving passengers ineligible for compensation in the event of an accident. Police said nine people were arrested for illegal taxi operations in 2025. A special traffic inspection was also carried out near the airport the same day. Authorities encouraged visitors to use licensed transportation services to ensure safe and secure travel in Fukuoka. Source: KBC News / RKB News
Photo: KBC News
Stay informed with the latest Fukuoka & Kyushu news and events in English. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter today and never miss a beat. Opt out anytime, your privacy is our priority. Get the inside scoop with The Now
Summaries based on public content, errors may occur during translation. Images credited independently. Send feedback using this form.