In Japan, taxis are generally more expensive than other forms of public transportation, so many people may rarely use them in daily life.

In contrast, in Indonesia, some taxi companies offer rates as low as a few dozen yen per kilometer, making taxis far more affordable compared to Japan. As a result, taxis are commonly used by both Indonesians and Japanese.

This article is intended for corporate representatives visiting Indonesia for business inspections, and summarizes the taxi situation in Jakarta and its surrounding cities. It includes safety tips when using taxis, trusted taxi companies, comparisons with car rentals, and an introduction to popular ride-hailing services available locally.

Taxi Situation in Jakarta, Indonesia

Taxis in Indonesia accept not only cash but also credit cards and electronic payments, and tipping is not customary. In this sense, the taxi system is quite similar to that in Japan.

The major difference lies in the fare, as mentioned earlier. In Indonesia, taxis are not considered a luxury mode of transport like they are in Japan. For example, major taxi company Blue Bird charges approximately IDR 5,000 to 5,400 per kilometer (around USD 0.31 to 0.34)*. Due to this significantly lower cost compared to Japan, it is not uncommon for people to use taxis for long-distance travel lasting one to two hours.

Another notable difference is that not all taxis use a metered system. While in Japan, the fare is typically determined after reaching the destination, in Indonesia, it is sometimes negotiated with the driver before boarding.

*Reference: Blue Bird “Penyesuaian Tarif Taksi Area Jabodetabek”

Cautions When Using Taxis in Indonesia

While some taxis in Indonesia do not use meters, it is generally advisable to avoid using non-metered taxis.

This is especially important for foreigners, as it is not uncommon for them to be quoted fares significantly above the market rate. If you feel uncomfortable with the proposed fare, it is best to decline and look for another taxi.

At major airports like Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, it is common to encounter taxi drivers who actively solicit passengers. These independent taxi drivers often do not use meters and may charge exorbitant rates. Therefore, those traveling from the airport to central Jakarta should be particularly cautious.

If your company is planning a business inspection trip to Jakarta, please feel free to contact PT. TRICRUISE MARKETING INDONESIA for efficient and comfortable local transportation support.

Taxi Companies in Jakarta, Indonesia

To avoid trouble, the best approach is to refrain from using unsafe taxi companies or independent taxi drivers.

Below are some of the most reputable and safe taxi companies available in Jakarta. Please consider these options when choosing a taxi.

Blue Bird

Blue Bird is one of the most well-known taxi companies in Indonesia. In addition to standard taxis, the company also operates eco-friendly electric vehicles (EV taxis) and LifeCare Taxis equipped with features that support passengers with disabilities and expectant mothers.

Due to its large fleet, Blue Bird taxis are easy to hail on the street. However, it is also possible to request a ride via their official mobile app, “MyBluebird Taxi,” or through the Indonesian ride-hailing app “Gojek.” These apps allow users to schedule rides in advance and communicate with drivers via chat for added peace of mind.

When using the “Gojek” app, select “GoCar” as your ride option and specify your destination and pickup location. You can then choose Blue Bird from the list of available vehicle options. While GoCar offers fixed rates based on the route, Blue Bird taxis use a metered system, so the app displays an “estimated fare.”

It should be noted that due to Blue Bird’s strong reputation among foreigners, there has been a rise in counterfeit taxis with similar blue car bodies. When hailing a taxi on the street, it is advisable to confirm key indicators such as the company’s logo, the driver’s uniform, and the presence of a meter to ensure that the taxi is an authentic Blue Bird vehicle.

Reference: Blue Bird “Taxi Service”

Silver Bird

Silver Bird is the premium version of Blue Bird taxis and features black-colored vehicles instead of blue.

Although the fares are higher compared to regular Blue Bird taxis, many people choose Silver Bird for important occasions such as accompanying business clients, due to its luxurious vehicles, smooth ride quality, and highly skilled, courteous drivers.

Silver Bird taxis are commonly available at high-end shopping malls and hotels, and they can also be reserved via the “MyBluebird Taxi” app introduced earlier. Since there are fewer Silver Bird vehicles than standard Blue Bird taxis, it is recommended to use the app rather than trying to hail one on the street.

Express

Express is another taxi company in Indonesia known for its safety and reliability. Currently, the company operates more than 8,000 standard taxis. Reservations can be made by phone.

The base fare starts at IDR 6,500 (approximately USD 0.41), and the rate per kilometer is IDR 3,800 (approximately USD 0.24). In addition to standard taxis, Express also offers premium taxi services using vehicles such as the Toyota Alphard and limousine services with luxury cars like Mercedes-Benz.

In 2014, the company launched a new taxi brand called “Eagle,” which, like Express, is recognized as a safe and trustworthy service. While the fare structure is the same as Express, Eagle taxis are primarily targeted at guests staying in hotels.

Reference: Express Group

Traveloka – Recommended for Those Seeking Car Rentals or Charters

In Indonesia—particularly in Jakarta and its surrounding cities—many of the safe taxi services mentioned above are widely available. Therefore, for those who do not plan to travel frequently or who remain within city centers where taxis are abundant, street-hailing a taxi can be a convenient option.

However, if you expect to use taxis multiple times in a single day, and are concerned about the potential difficulty of finding an available cab, renting or chartering a car is also a practical choice.

One reliable platform for booking rental cars in Jakarta is Traveloka. As a leading Indonesian travel platform, Traveloka allows users to book hotels, activities, buses, trains, flights, and even rental cars.

How to Use Traveloka

1. First, log in to the app and click on “Car Rental.”
2. Select “With Driver” to book a car rental with a driver. Then, enter the pick-up location, date, and rental duration.
3. A list of available vehicle types will be displayed. For example, the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross starts at approximately USD 38.26 per day (JPY 5,650).
4. Review details such as the rental period and any additional fees like parking or tolls.
5. Check user reviews regarding driver behavior, cleanliness, and punctuality.
6. Click “Continue” and enter pick-up and drop-off locations.
7. Choose any additional options such as fuel or driver meals.
8. Confirm the details and provide contact information such as an email address.
9. Complete the payment and receive a voucher. The provider will contact you the day before the rental, and the driver will arrive as scheduled.

Advantages of Traveloka’s chauffeur-driven car rentals:

• Clear pricing in advance
• Flexible route choice
• Professional drivers dispatched by the company
• Wide selection of vehicles
• All-inclusive options for fuel and meals

Reference: Traveloka “Cara Pesan Rental Mobil dengan Sopir”

If your company is considering an inspection tour and wishes to arrange transportation or interpreter services, please consider utilizing our local inspection support services.

Ride-Hailing Services Are Also Recommended

So far, we’ve introduced taxis and car rentals as the main transportation options within Jakarta. If you’re familiar with these two methods, you should generally have no trouble getting around the city by car.

However, communication with drivers for both options is typically conducted in Indonesian. For those who are concerned about language barriers, we recommend using Grab, a ride-hailing app widely used throughout Southeast Asia that allows communication in English.

Grab enables you to book a ride directly through the app. While vehicle condition, cleanliness, and service quality can vary significantly depending on the driver, Grab offers the following key benefits:

Easy Booking via Japanese Smartphones

Unlike some ride-hailing apps that require a local phone number to register, Grab can be downloaded and used directly from Japanese smartphones.

All steps—from booking the ride to payment—can be completed within the app, eliminating the need for in-person conversations. Additionally, you can communicate with the driver via chat if necessary.

Transparent Pricing for Peace of Mind

When booking, simply enter your pick-up and destination locations. The fare is displayed in advance, so there’s no risk of unexpected charges. You can also register your Japanese credit card, eliminating the need for cash transactions if no toll fees apply.

C2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods): $230
C19 (After-sales service) / C20(Installation and repair of machinery): $300
D2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods (1-year validity)): $380
E23/E24/E25 (Work VISA): $1,500

Choose the Right Taxi Company or Service Based on the Situation

When using taxis in Indonesia, it is advisable to opt for reputable companies such as Blue Bird or to use ride-hailing services like Grab, where fares are fixed in advance—both options help prevent potential issues.

In rural areas, you may not find your preferred taxi company or be able to use ride-hailing apps. However, in Jakarta and its surrounding urban centers, such concerns are generally unnecessary.

If you anticipate frequent travel throughout the day, the most convenient option is to book a chauffeur-driven car through Traveloka.

Ultimately, the best taxi company or service will vary depending on the location and time of your travel. If you plan to use taxis in Indonesia, we hope this article serves as a helpful reference.