#Japan #Sapporo #Luup #Micro Mobility

LUUP Micro Mobility Service Resumes in Sapporo

On April 15, 2026, at 10 AM, Luup Inc. reintroduced its micro-mobility service, LUUP, in Sapporo, Hokkaido. This revival is marked by a collaborative safety training event held at the historical Red Brick Government Office Garden, involving the Hokkaido Police and Tokyo Marine Holdings. The training aimed to educate residents and visitors on the safe usage of electric bicycles and scooters, while promoting responsible riding practices.

To celebrate the launch, LUUP offered an exciting ‘Unlimited Ride Campaign’ where all rides under 15 minutes are free until April 22, 2026. This initiative invites both locals and tourists to experience the convenience and accessibility of micro-mobility in the city.

Background of LUUP

Luup’s mission is to transform urban landscapes into stations for convenient transport. The company has been working on providing micro-mobility solutions across Japan, offering electric bicycles and scooters as a means to solve last-mile commuting challenges. With the resumption of its services in Sapporo, Luup aims to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and enhance mobility for both residents and visitors.

Having initially launched in July 2025, Luup suspended its services during winter but resumed operations this spring, expanding its network from 67 to 85 ports around the city to better serve users. This expansion aims to boost the local economy and contribute to a vibrant urban atmosphere.

Safety Awareness and User Education

In light of new traffic regulations applying to bicycle users, increased focus on road safety has been emphasized. The company conducted a safety workshop on the reopening day as part of their effort to aid understanding of traffic rules governing bicycles and small electric vehicles. Attendees received educational guides and hands-on experience in safe riding practices.

By hosting events such as these safety workshops, Luup directly engages with the community, aiming to foster a greater awareness of traffic regulations and best riding practices. The company is committed to ongoing collaborations with local governments and businesses to maintain a safe user environment.

Service Overview

LUUP provides a micro-mobility sharing system using a smartphone app through which users can access electric bicycles and scooters. Here are some details regarding the service:

• - Launch Date: April 15, 2026, at 10 AM.
• - Service Area: Within Sapporo City.
• - Port Count: 85 ports available, with plans to increase this number.
• - Vehicle Fleet: Approximately 180 vehicles consisting of 100 electric bicycles and 80 electric scooters.
• - Fare Structure: Basic ride fee of ¥50 (tax included) plus a time fee of ¥15 per minute.

To use electric scooters, riders must verify their age and pass a traffic rule test through the app. For those opting for electric bicycles, these requirements are not necessary. All vehicles under the service are insured against third-party damage, personal injury, and accidents.

Details on the Unlimited Ride Campaign

The unlimited ride campaign from April 15 to April 22, 2026, allows users registered on the LUUP app to take advantage of free rides lasting up to 15 minutes. Here’s how it works:

• - Users must download the LUUP app and register.
• - Any ride beginning in the campaign period, which is less than 15 minutes, incurs no charge.
• - After 15 minutes, standard fees apply, and rides must end within the campaign period to qualify for the free service.

Commitment to Safety

Safety remains a key priority for Luup, which has outlined three core strategies:
1. User Education: Regular workshops and resources promoting traffic safety and a mandatory traffic rules test for electric scooter riders.
2. Strict Enforcement Against Dangerous Behavior: Implementation of a behavior detection system to monitor and respond to unsafe riding practices.
3. Improving Vehicle Safety Features: Continuous enhancement of vehicle specifications and optional features like navigation assistance and helmet rentals.

Starting April 15, 2026, a helmet rental trial will be launched, where users can easily borrow helmets via QR code checkouts at selected ports in Sapporo.

Conclusion

As LUUP resumes its operations in Sapporo, it aims not only to provide a convenient transport solution but also to ensure safety and build community awareness around traffic rules. The reintroduction of services coupled with special campaigns emphasizes Luup's commitment to improving urban mobility and enhancing the overall quality of life in the city.