Lime Inc., a leading provider of electric mobility sharing services around the globe, has officially kicked off its service in Ishigaki Island, Japan. In collaboration with the Yaeyama Police Station, Lime aims to enhance public safety and improve the convenience of transportation for tourists and residents alike. The company has rolled out its sitting electric seat board, the 'Limeラクモ', across approximately 30 locations in Ishigaki, including popular spots like Yuugureta Terminal and Yurateku Market.
Currently, Lime has deployed 130 units of 'Limeラクモ', with plans to expand to 200 units and 50 ports by the end of this year. The launch comes at a time when the demand for tourism is steadily increasing in Ishigaki, which has seen a significant rise in visitor numbers.
In fact, recent statistics show that the number of tourists visiting the island in September 2025 reached approximately 137,874, marking an increase of 12,911 from the previous year. However, the influx of visitors has also raised concerns about transportation accessibility, particularly given the aging population and staff shortages in the transportation sector.
In light of these challenges, the introduction of 'Limeラクモ' offers a renewed option for both locals and tourists, effectively supplementing the limited taxi services available on the island. With only around 250 taxis operating in Ishigaki, obtaining a ride during peak hours can be exceptionally challenging. The addition of 200 'Limeラクモ' units is expected to provide a much-needed transportation solution for the island.
Furthermore, in preparation for this rollout, Lime has engaged in various safety awareness activities in partnership with local authorities. Notably, a safety test drive event was held during the popular Ishigaki Festival on November 1 and 2, where participants were encouraged to experience the mobility service firsthand.
The electric seat board utilized in Ishigaki is being repurposed from the staff vehicles used at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, which concluded on October 13, 2025, marking a sustainable approach to mobility. This initiative not only promotes eco-friendly transportation solutions but also enriches the local mobility landscape, enhancing the overall travel experience for both tourists and residents.
In conjunction with its launch in Ishigaki, Lime is also collaborating with Japan Airlines (JAL) to facilitate a miles-earning program, allowing users to earn rewards through their journeys. JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) members will accumulate one mile for every 100 yen spent on Lime services. By simply registering their JMB information on the Lime app, customers in Ishigaki can take advantage of this benefit.
Lime's mission is to advance electric micro-mobility as a mainstay of public transportation while fostering a carbon-free and sustainable future. The company remains committed to addressing transportation needs in both urban and tourist settings, continuously improving access and convenience for users.
With the growth of tourist traffic and an increase in demand for efficient transportation options, Lime's entry into Ishigaki Island represents a vital step in addressing these dual challenges. Its innovative mobility solution is designed to minimize the gap in existing public transport systems, thereby promoting better accessibility from homes or accommodations to various destinations, thus enhancing the island's overall connectivity.
In summary, the launch of 'Limeラクモ' signifies a progressive movement towards a more sustainable transportation framework in Ishigaki, establishing a greener future for the local community and visitors alike. As Lime continues to expand its reach in Japan, it reinforces its commitment to sustainable and reliable mobility solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern-day travelers.