Jinrikisha, Historic Traditional Japanese Rickshaw

Jinrikisha (人力車) or “rickshaw” is a traditional Japanese vehicle still seen and used today. This mode of transportation relies on human power to pull a two-wheeled passenger cart that can carry a maximum of two persons.

In the past, jinrikisha was considered a more advanced and valuable mode of transport. Today, it is a part of Japan’s tourism sector, especially in major cities. Let’s find out more about this traditional Japanese rickshaw!

History of jinrikisha

Jinrikisha first appeared during the Meiji era (1868-1912) as a replacement for kago. Kago was a traditional Japanese transport device in the shape of a square wooden palanquin for one passenger carried by two people. Although both relied on human power, jinrikisha was faster than kago. In terms of cost, jinrikisha was also cheaper than other modes of transportation available at the time, such as horses.

Jinrikisha's popularity then spread to other Asian countries. This was evident in Japan’s trade sector records, where jinrikisha was shown to be exported to Hong Kong, India, and Singapore, as well as to China, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, and even Indonesia.

According to Japan Experience, jinrikisha continued to be widely used in Japan until the 1920’s, specifically until the emergence of engine-powered transportation modes, such as trams, trains, and cars.

Interesting aspects of jinrikisha

As one of Japan’s tourist attractions, by riding a jinrikisha today, you get to:

● Enjoy the surrounding scenery in detail without being tired from walking;

● Learn about Japanese history and culture through the information shared by the shafu (jinrikisha driver) during your journey. Don’t worry about the language barrier, as many jinrikisha drivers can speak English, Mandarin, and other foreign languages; and

● Capture moments through photos, which you can take yourself or ask the shafu to take for you.

Recommended destinations offering jinrikisha

Excited to try a jinrikisha? Here are some recommended jinrikisha spots in major cities in Japan:

● Asakusa, Tokyo. According to Japan Journey Guide, touring Asakusa by jinrikisha will take you to see famous landmarks of Asakusa, such as Kaminarimon (one of Asakusa’s “entrance gates”), Nakamise Street, and Senso-ji Temple. The shafu or rickshaw drivers are knowledgeable about Asakusa’s history and culture. So, you can leisurely tour around the old Tokyo city icons while listening to interesting stories from your shafu.

● Kamakura. Kamakura is an ancient city in Japan that still maintains the samurai era atmosphere. Touring this city by jinrikisha will take you to fascinating places, such as Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, Hase Temple, and the Great Buddha Statue of Kamakura. Like the shafu in Asakusa, the shafu in Kamakura also have extensive knowledge about the city’s history and culture, and will guide you through the city’s beautiful coastline.

● Kyoto. Riding a jinrikisha in Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, will take you to Kiyomizu Temple, Gion, and Arashiyama, as well as other popular spots. The shafu there are also well-versed in Kyoto’s history and culture. They will also introduce you to the beautiful scenery of old Kyoto.

How much does it cost to rent a jinrikisha? Generally, the cost of riding a jinrikisha depends on the distance, route, and number of passengers. Prices in each city may vary. However, the estimated price range is from ¥4,000 (approximately Rp430,000) to ¥69,000 (approximately Rp7,500,000).

That was an overview of jinrikisha, the traditional Japanese rickshaw. Before traveling to Japan, make sure to protect yourself with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia, which will provide comprehensive protection for you and your family when traveling domestically or internationally.