#Japan #Kyoto #Charichari #Kyubei #kotobike

Charichari Expands Its Bicycle Sharing Services

Charichari Inc., headquartered in Fukuoka, and led by President Kentaro Iemoto, has embarked on an exciting venture to strengthen its bicycle sharing services. In a recent board meeting on October 14, 2025, they decided to enter into a demerger agreement with Kyubei, a reputable bicycle shop in Kyoto, to acquire its share bicycle service "kotobike". This transaction is poised to take effect on December 1, 2025.

Background and Purpose of the Acquisition

With the mission of "creating the next habit of urban mobility," Charichari currently operates its bicycle-sharing services in eight areas focused around Fukuoka. The decision to absorb Kyubei’s kotobike service, already well-established in Kyoto and Otsu, aims to leverage Kyubei’s existing infrastructure and operational successes. By merging this with Charichari's advanced operational systems and data utilization, the cooperation intends to stimulate sustainable demand and enhance local transportation convenience in these areas.

The partnership isn’t entirely new; both companies have previously collaborated. Charichari’s group company, Wimo, has supplied bicycles for share use to Kyubei, and Bychari, another group entity, operated the Bychari Kyoto Saiin store in the former location of Kyubei's operation, indicating a solid foundation for continuous collaboration in promoting the bicycle industry.

Unique Features of Charichari’s Service

Although multiple operators have already established services for bike sharing in Kyoto and Otsu, Charichari plans to capitalize on two key elements:

1. The development of user-friendly areas and ports for daily commuting, which is Charichari’s forte.
2. Creating connectivity between the regions already served by Charichari in Kyushu and Chubu, furthering the accessibility across networks.

Commuter movements between Kyoto and Otsu are frequent due to school and work, prompting Charichari to intensify port deployment to boost user accessibility and convenience.

This acquisition will be conditional on approvals from both companies’ extraordinary shareholders' meetings, which will be convened to discuss the necessary resolutions.

Transitioning Equipment and Branding

After the acquisition takes effect, bike-sharing services will initially operate using the existing kotobike infrastructure and apps, allowing seamless access for current users. However, by Spring 2026, Charichari plans to unify the brand, transitioning to its distinctive models and integrating its app into the services provided. Further announcements will clarify timelines and specific procedures for this transition.

Overview of the Acquisition

• - Acquiring Company: Charichari, Inc.
• - Location: 6th Floor KBC Building, 1-1-1 Nagahama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City
• - President: Kentaro Iemoto
• - Divesting Company: Kyubei, Inc.
• - Location: 2nd Floor, Teibun Building, 246 Shimohoritsuchicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City
• - President: Sota Taniguchi
• - Business being Acquired: The share bicycle business "kotobike" operating in Kyoto and Otsu.
• - Agreement Date: October 14, 2025
• - Effectivity Date: December 1, 2025

What is Charichari?

Charichari provides a convenient bicycle-sharing service, allowing users to unlock their signature red bicycles through a smartphone app. The pricing system makes it appealing, with rates of 7 yen per minute for regular bikes and 17 yen per minute for electric-assist bicycles. Launched in February 2018, Charichari has recorded over 38 million uses and expanded its services across multiple regions including Fukuoka, Nagoya, Tokyo, Kumamoto, and more. Its user-friendly app and minute-based fee structure make it ideal for everyday short trips.

Charichari’s Safety Standards

To promote safety among riders, Charichari sells certified helmets through its online store, designed to be compact and stylish. Users can choose from various colors that complement both professional and casual attire, complete with the iconic Charichari logo.

Join Charichari as a Port Owner

Charichari is currently seeking new port owners. If you have unutilized spaces such as the front of a store or office parking area, consider collaborating with Charichari to establish bicycle ports to enhance community connectivity. Minimum installation requires space for five bicycles, transforming neglected areas into valuable community resources.

For more information about becoming a port owner, visit Charichari’s website.