#Japan #Charichari #Karatsu #Karatsu City #德川慎之介

Charichari Expands to Karatsu City

Charichari Co., Ltd., based in Fukuoka City, officially launched its bike-sharing service in the Yoiko area of Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, starting July 14, 2026. This event marked the beginning of a new era of mobility in the region and was celebrated with an agreement ceremony alongside the city’s officials.

The bike-sharing initiative aims to improve visitor mobility within the area, promoting local tourism by enhancing access between major tourist sites like the Yoiko Morning Market and catering facilities. Annually, over 500,000 tourists flock to this vibrant area, with approximately 71.7% coming from outside the city, according to 2023 statistics. However, limited transportation options between key attractions presented a challenge, leading to the need for a transition from isolated sightseeing to a more comprehensive travel experience.

The introduction of shared bicycles results from community input and collaborative efforts with Karatsu City, focusing on sustainable regional mobility. During the launch event held at Yuiko Daibajikan in the Yoiko area, mascot Karawan-kun joined the festivities, further emphasizing community engagement.

Service Expansion Plans

The Karatsu launch features 20 electric assist bikes, enhancing mobility for visitors. This initiative not only facilitates exploration of the scenic areas but also promotes community sustainability through local partnerships.

Following the launch in the Yoiko area, Charichari plans to expand its services to the JR Karatsu Station area by August 2026. By integrating bike-sharing facilities with public transportation, the service aims to meet both daily commuting and tourist demands effectively. The strategic location of bike ports will complement the existing infrastructure, enhancing mobility for both residents and visitors alike.

Those interested in exploring the region can look forward to an updated port layout, which will be forthcoming via the official Charichari website and app. These ports will cater to the unique characteristics of each area—linking the cultural richness of Yoiko with the urban convenience of the Karatsu center.

Official Ambassador for Community Engagement

In conjunction with the service launch, professional basketball player Shinnosuke Tokugawa of Tokyo United Basketball Club has been appointed as the official ambassador for the local Charichari initiative. A native of Karatsu City, Tokugawa embodies local pride and is committed to utilizing sports for community upliftment. As ambassador, he is set to participate in promotional events and engage with the public through various social media platforms.

This partnership will not merely focus on providing a transportation option but also aims to foster deeper connections between local residents and visitors, paving the way for a more intertwined community experience.

About Charichari

Charichari is a user-friendly bike-sharing service that connects easy access through a smartphone app to unlock distinctive red bicycles. Basic rides start at ¥6.5 per minute, with electric-assisted bikes available for ¥20.5. The service, which began in Fukuoka in February 2018, has facilitated over 47 million rides across nine regions, including cities like Nagoya, Tokyo, and Kumamoto.

Safety is also a priority, reflected by the offering of high-quality helmets that meet SG standards, available through the official online store. These helmets are recognized for their safety features while stylishly accommodating both formal and casual attire, accompanied by a unique promotional ticket offer.

Charichari continues to look for prospective port owners who wish to transform underutilized spaces into bike port locations, thus contributing to a more accessible urban landscape.

For more information about Charichari and its ongoing projects, please visit the official website: Charichari. Or check out their social media: X, Instagram, and TikTok.