#Japan #Kumamoto #S.RIDE #Taxi App

S.RIDE Taxi App Launches in Kumamoto

On October 14, 2025, S.RIDE Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, will officially launch its taxi app service, "S.RIDE," in the Kumamoto transportation area and Ozu Town, Kumamoto Prefecture. This marks the first introduction of the S.RIDE service in Kumamoto. Initially, the service will collaborate with eight local taxi operators, featuring a fleet of approximately 130 vehicles, with plans to expand to around 190 vehicles through partnerships with 10 operators by the end of October.

The expansion into Kumamoto comes at a time when the region is gaining international attention as a hub for the semiconductor industry, leading to a surge in demand for business transportation solutions. Additionally, Kumamoto boasts numerous tourist attractions, including the historic Kumamoto Castle and the stunning scenery of the Aso region, making it an ideal location for S.RIDE to offer efficient and comfortable transportation solutions.

In embracing the local business environment, S.RIDE aims to not just cater to everyday commuting needs but also enhance travel experiences for tourists and business professionals alike. With this launch, S.RIDE now operates in 11 prefectures across Japan, furthering its mission to improve mobility in key regional cities.

Comments from Key Stakeholders

Yohei Hashimoto, the CEO of S.RIDE Corporation, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating, "We are thrilled to begin services in Kumamoto, a region rich in history and natural beauty. As a significant center for the semiconductor industry, there is a growing demand for transportation among domestic and international business visitors. We are committed to providing seamless and comfortable transit experiences through our smart ride-hailing service, and we look forward to contributing to the local economy by collaborating with regional operators."

Further emphasizing the importance of this initiative, Kentaro Akaike, the Vice President of the Kumamoto City Taxi Association, mentioned, "The introduction of S.RIDE services in Kumamoto is a welcome development. Smartphone-enabled ride-hailing apps enhance user convenience and can lead to increased operational efficiency for drivers while creating new business opportunities. As a region abundant in tourist attractions and experiencing rapid growth in business demand driven by semiconductor-related industries, this partnership with S.RIDE will invigorate local transportation services and significantly contribute to Kumamoto's economic development."

Innovating Mobility for the Future

S.RIDE is making strides towards the future by innovating high-value services utilizing Sony Group’s AI and IT technology in an era transitioning towards self-driving capabilities. The company embraces a purpose of creating moving experiences that resonate with users. "We aim to revolutionize the mobility sector by delivering new transportation experiences and lifestyle proposals that align with our ethos."

About the S.RIDE Taxi App

The S.RIDE taxi application, available at S.RIDE official website, leverages advanced AI and IT technologies developed by the Sony Group. The app is already accessible in various regions across Japan, including Miyagi, Ibaraki, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Aichi, Ishikawa, Osaka, and now Kumamoto. Key features include:

• - On-demand and scheduled taxi rides for individuals and businesses (including flat-rate airport trips)
• - Smooth online payments via credit card pre-registration
• - The S.RIDE Wallet for convenient payments from both app bookings and street pickups
• - Integration with expense management platforms and issue of electronic receipts via email

Available payment options include S.RIDE Biz, Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Apple Pay, and CAB CARD.

About S.RIDE Corporation

Company Name: S.RIDE Corporation
Address: 5th Floor, Shiodome City Center, 1-5-2 Higashi-shinbashi, Minato, Tokyo
Established: May 31, 2018
CEO: Yohei Hashimoto
Business Scope: Provision of the S.RIDE taxi app and planning, development, and provision of dispatch software and systems for taxi operators.

For more information, visit S.RIDE, or connect with us on YouTube, Facebook, X, and Instagram

"S.RIDE" is a registered trademark of S.RIDE Corporation.