#Japan #Transportation #Shibuya #Shibuya Ward #GO Shuttle

Enhancing Mobility in Shibuya: The GO Shuttle Initiative

On September 1, 2024, Shibuya Ward will launch a demand transportation experiment utilizing the GO Shuttle service. This initiative aims to improve mobility for residents in the area, particularly supporting seniors, pregnant women, and families with children.

What is GO Shuttle?

GO Shuttle is a ride-sharing service accessible through the GO application. By offering rides at approximately half the cost of traditional taxis, Shibuya Ward seeks to encourage a broader range of users to utilize this service. The district will provide subsidies to cover part of the fare for those in more vulnerable situations, making it a crucial step towards creating an inclusive and sustainable public transportation system. The ultimate goal is to make Shibuya a place where everyone can raise children and enjoy a comfortable life as they age.

Service Details and Operations

The service will operate in the northwestern regions of Shibuya Ward, covering areas such as Sasazuka, Hatagaya, Hatsudai, and Honmachi, with connections to major stations like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Yoyogi Uehara.

Key Information about GO Shuttle:

• - Service Launch: September 1, 2024
• - Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to approximately 8:00 PM, including weekends and holidays.
• - Max Vehicle Availability: Up to 10 mini-vans.

Booking and Fare Structure

Customers can reserve their rides via the GO application, selecting a pickup point and preferred time from around 700 designated spots. Bookings can be made up to 15 minutes before the ride. Interestingly, the fare will be fixed at the time of booking, amounting to around 60-70% of traditional taxi rates, regardless of the number of passengers. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 5 passengers.

Financial Support for Eligible Users

In an effort to make this service widely accessible, Shibuya Ward will issue electronic taxi tickets, known as GO Tickets, valued at 400 yen each, to eligible residents — which include seniors, those with disabilities, pregnant women, and families with children. Recipients of the tickets can receive up to 20 tickets per month, enhancing their ability to travel without financial burden. Applications for tickets can be made through the official Shibuya Ward LINE account, making it easier for residents to claim their subsidies.

Additionally, the ward collaborates with smartphone salons to provide digital support, ensuring residents can easily navigate the application and understand how to utilize the GO Shuttle service effectively.

Important Points to Consider

While using the GO Shuttle, passengers are requested to be considerate of others as rides are shared. This includes refraining from phone calls, photography, and eating inside the vehicle. Passengers are allowed to bring one small piece of luggage that can fit on their laps.

Furthermore, the shuttle will depart promptly at the scheduled time. Should there be no available seating, a cancellation charge (the full fare) will apply. Users are encouraged to keep the GO application updated for the latest features and information regarding their rides.

To explore further details, visit the Shibuya Ward official website, where comprehensive information is available regarding the initiative and how to participate.

Conclusion

The introduction of the GO Shuttle service represents a significant advancement in Shibuya Ward's efforts to offer accessible transportation. By addressing the needs of vulnerable groups and leveraging technology for convenience, Shibuya strives to create a more inclusive environment for all residents.