#Japan #Sapporo #Luup #micro-mobility

Introduction

On July 31, 2025, the micro-mobility sharing service 'LUUP' made its debut in Sapporo City, marking a significant step towards transforming urban transportation in the region. Luup Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, has introduced this service with an initial fleet of 200 vehicles positioned at 50 designated ports across the city. The launch was celebrated with a safety workshop held in collaboration with the Hokkaido Police and Tokio Marine Holdings, aimed at educating the public on the safe use of electric kickboards and bicycles.

The Vision Behind LUUP

Founded with a mission to ‘transform urban environments into station-like hubs,’ Luup is committed to providing efficient and convenient micro-mobility solutions across Japan. By integrating various types of electric and compact vehicles, including electric kickboards and assist bicycles, Luup has established an essential transportation network for the first and last mile, paving the way for a community where mobility is both accessible and comfortable.

Since its inception in May 2020, Luup has expanded its services nationwide, covering cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, and many others, with over 14,600 ports in operation. Compact vehicles allow for port installations in limited spaces, enhancing accessibility for urban dwellers.

Safety Measures

On the launch day, participants learned about traffic rules and safe riding practices through comprehensive guides distributed at the event. LUUP has implemented various safety measures, ensuring secure usage of its vehicles in Sapporo. Users are required to pass a traffic rule test and submit age verification documentation to operate the electric kickboards. This rigorous process is designed to enhance safety awareness among users, particularly when navigating through urban landscapes.

Unique Safety Initiatives in Sapporo

To further ensure safety in Sapporo, LUUP has introduced three specific measures targeted at the local environment:
1. Push Zones Notification: When entering prohibited riding areas, users are notified through the app, prompting them to dismount and push their vehicles. This feature applies to both electric kickboards and assist bicycles, emphasizing safety in areas like Odori Park.
2. Intrusion Prevention Alerts: The app provides warnings about restricted areas users might unintentionally enter. This allows riders to plan their routes carefully and confirms their destination with the mandatory reservation of the destination port on the app.
3. Streetcar Track Warnings: Alerts regarding road safety near streetcar tracks will be visible to all users, raising awareness and caution when riding through these areas.

LUUP Service Overview

LUUP's service enables users to easily navigate through Sapporo using portable electric kickboards and assistance bicycles via the user-friendly LUUP app.

• - Base ride fee: 50 yen (tax included) + 15 yen per minute thereafter
• - Vehicle count: 200 (40 kickboards and 160 assist bicycles)
• - Insurance coverage: Liability for damages and personal injury

Special Riding Campaign

To celebrate the launch in Sapporo, LUUP offers a unique riding campaign from July 31 to August 9, 2025, allowing users to enjoy 30 minutes of free rides on their vehicles multiple times within this period. Users only need to register on the LUUP app to take advantage of this offer, fostering community involvement in sustainable transportation.

Future Expansion Plans

As LUUP continues to grow in Sapporo, the company remains committed to enhancing its services and increasing the number of ports throughout the city. The company welcomes port installation requests from local businesses and landowners, aiming to create a network that contributes to the community's mobility needs effectively. Interested individuals can easily reach out via their website for inquiries regarding port partnerships.

Conclusion

With the launch of LUUP in Sapporo City, there is hope for a greener, more integrated urban transportation landscape. As the city embraces this innovative service, continued efforts will be made to ensure that users feel safe and informed while enjoying their rides. Engaging with local authorities and businesses will remain a priority as LUUP strives to enhance mobility and connectivity in urban environments.