#Japan #Charichari #Saga #Bicycle Sharing

Charichari's Expansion in Saga Area

Charichari, the popular bicycle sharing service operated by Charichari Co., Ltd., is set to expand its availability in the Saga area effective April 13, 2026. Responding to positive user feedback and demand for improved services, Charichari will extend its coverage along National Route 208 (Western Ring Road + Southern Bypass), enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

Overview of the Expansion

The expansion will introduce 17 new bicycle parking ports, bringing the total number of ports in the Saga area to 101. This strategic move is designed not only to improve connectivity along the main roads but also to encourage users to switch from cars to bicycles, thereby enhancing the overall mobility and recreational opportunities in the surrounding regions.

Since initiating operations in the Saga area in May 2024, Charichari has established a substantial network, including approximately 240 bicycles and 75 bicycle ports at key locations such as near the JR Saga Station, SAGA Arena, public facilities, commercial establishments, hospitals, convenience stores, and residential compounds.

Surveys conducted among local users indicate a high satisfaction rate, with over 90% of respondents expressing contentment with the service. The primary purposes for using the service include short trips for shopping (50%) and commuting (40%). Furthermore, the proximity of bicycle ports to train stations and bus stops has facilitated seamless integrations with public transportation, with more than 60% of users combining their journeys with rail or bus services.

New Locations and Features

The newly added ports will strategically enhance service coverage along key locations including:

• - Saga Dental Hygiene School
• - Saga Kitakuyou Post Office
• - Mizokami Pharmacy, Airport Road Store
• - Mizokami Pharmacy, Kihara Store
• - And 13 other significant spots that cater to local demand.

The expansion will increase the coverage area from 13 square kilometers to 20.4 square kilometers. This growth is expected to significantly enhance the mobility network within the circular region along National Route 208, which is home to numerous dining and shopping conveniences, along with residential neighborhoods.

Community Engagement Initiatives

In addition to the expansion, Charichari is actively involved in promoting road safety initiatives. As part of the SAGA BLUE PROJECT, which aims to reduce traffic accidents through design and community involvement, Charichari collaborated with local youth to create safety awareness campaigns. Recently, during a home game for the Saga Ballooners professional basketball team, workshops were organized where children illustrated safety messages that have been displayed on 30 Charichari bicycles, visually promoting road safety in the community.

About Charichari

Launched in Fukuoka in February 2018, Charichari is a user-friendly bicycle sharing service that allows users to easily unlock the company's signature red bicycles through a smartphone app. Rental prices start at 6.5 yen per minute for basic bicycles and 20.5 yen per minute for electric assist bikes, encouraging convenient short trips in urban environments. Charichari has achieved an impressive milestone of over 44 million rides across various regions including Fukuoka, Nagoya, and now Saga.

To support the community further, Charichari is selling safety-certified helmets in their online store, designed for convenience and style, with a portion of the proceeds funding safety education initiatives.

For more information about Charichari or to become a port owner, please visit our website at Charichari Official Site.