Help Centre

Every question.

Precisely answered.

Before your journey begins, we want you to feel certain. Browse every detail below — or reach us directly.

Before You Book

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Yes, every trip without exception. Dark suit and tie is a fixed standard — not an upgrade. This is what separates a licensed chauffeur from a taxi or ride-share.

Yes. Chauffeurs operate under strict confidentiality — no recording, no sharing of passenger information or conversations. Your privacy is non-negotiable.

Yes. All bookings and pre-trip communication are handled in English. Chauffeurs manage everyday directions and requests in English — you will never need to speak Japanese.

Yes. We operate around the clock, 365 days a year, including public holidays. Please note that a flat late-night / early-morning surcharge of ¥3,000 per trip applies when any part of your journey falls between 22:00 and 06:00 (JST). It is a fixed fee — not hourly — and is always included in your quotation upfront, so the price you confirm is the price you pay.

Book via our website form, WhatsApp, or email at info@octoshell.jp — provide your pickup address, date, time, and passenger count. We confirm within a few hours. Book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee availability.

Toyota Alphard: best for 1–4 passengers with standard luggage. Toyota Hiace: best for 5–9 passengers, large groups, golf trips, or heavy luggage. If you are unsure, tell us your group size and luggage and we will recommend.

Yes. All vehicles operate under a green-plate commercial licence issued by the Japanese government (特定旅客自動車運送事業), and are fully insured. Every chauffeur holds a valid hire-car driver's licence under Japanese law.

Yes. Corporate clients receive consolidated monthly invoicing via bank transfer, priority booking support, and a dedicated contact. Email info@octoshell.jp to set up an account.

Rates & Payment

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Yes. One price covers everything — tolls, parking, fuel, and overnight accommodation for the driver. All costs are fixed and confirmed at booking. No hidden fees. Route changes after the trip starts may add costs.

We offer three payment options: 1. Cash — Pay directly to the chauffeur at the beginning or end of the trip. 2. Credit Card — Secure payment via Stripe payment link or QR code before the trip. Major credit cards are accepted. A 5% processing fee applies to credit card payments. 3. Bank Transfer — Available for corporate clients and approved business accounts. Receipts are available upon request.

Yes. Credit card payments receive an automatic PDF receipt by email after the trip — suitable for business expense claims. Cash payments: receipt issued on request.

No. Tipping is not customary in Japan and is never expected by our chauffeurs. A kind word or an online review is the best way to show your appreciation.

Vehicles & Luggage

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Two vehicles: Toyota Alphard (up to 5 passengers, 5 large suitcases) and Toyota Hiace Grand Cabin (up to 9 passengers, 15 large suitcases). Both are green-plate licensed, non-smoking, and equipped with USB charging. No sedans.

No smoking (including e-cigarettes). Drinks in sealed bottles are fine. Light snacks with no strong smell are OK.

Yes. USB-A and USB-C ports are available, and free charging cables for iPhone and Android are provided at no charge.

Both are free. Child seats (infant, toddler, and booster — ISOFIX compatible) and name-board Meet & Greet at arrivals are included. Request at booking so we can prepare.

Alphard: up to 5 passengers and 5 large suitcases (or up to 10 with fewer passengers). Hiace: up to 9 passengers and 9 large suitcases (or up to 15 with fewer passengers). Oversized items — golf bags, strollers, ski equipment — must be declared at booking.

Yes. Please notify us at booking with the wheelchair type (foldable / electric / dimensions). The Toyota Hiace is recommended for larger or electric wheelchairs.

Booking & Cancellation

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Cancellations are governed by our official Legal Notice under the Specified Commercial Transactions Act: Up to 48 hours before pickup: Free of charge (100% Refund) Between 24 to 48 hours before pickup: 50% of the estimated quote Within 24 hours or No-Show: 100% of the estimated quote Note: Cancellation fees are waived if your flight is officially canceled by the airline, provided you notify us immediately.

Tell your chauffeur immediately. They will confirm feasibility and any added costs — tolls, time surcharges, or parking — before proceeding. Same-day extensions depend on availability and cannot always be guaranteed.

An email confirmation is sent immediately after booking, including your booking reference, pickup details, and vehicle type. We also send WhatsApp updates before your journey — including your chauffeur's name, contact number, and a reminder 24 hours before pickup.

Yes. List all stops at booking. Common examples: airport → hotel → clinic, or multi-district sightseeing across Tokyo. Any routing surcharges are confirmed before your trip — no surprises.

Yes, from 4 hours minimum. Tolls, parking, and fuel included. Popular for Ginza shopping, multi-stop Tokyo sightseeing, and corporate visits. Advance booking required — same-day availability not guaranteed.

At the Airport

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The first 90 minutes after landing are free — at no extra charge. After that: Alphard ¥2,500 / Hiace ¥3,000 per 30 minutes. Flight delays are always free — you only pay if the wait is caused by personal activities.

In the arrivals hall, past customs and baggage claim. Your chauffeur holds a name board. If you cannot find them, call or WhatsApp the number in your booking confirmation — do not exit the terminal first.

Typically 50–70 minutes (approx. 65 km via expressway). Allow up to 90 minutes during peak hours. We monitor real-time traffic and reroute when needed.

Typically 30–45 minutes (approx. 20 km via expressway). Allow up to 60 minutes during heavy traffic.

Your chauffeur waits in the arrivals hall until you appear. We track your flight in real time, so they know exactly when you land. You have 90 minutes after touchdown to clear customs and collect your bags — at no extra charge. Take your time.

We recommend exchanging at major Tokyo stations (Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya) where queues are minimal. Airport counters can have 1–2 hour waits. Your driver can take you to a station counter after drop-off if needed.

Special Requests

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Yes — cats, dogs, and small animals are welcome. Pets must be kept inside a secure carrier or crate throughout the journey. Passengers without a proper carrier may be refused boarding.

Yes — a popular option for golf and hiking groups. We drop you off at the golf course or trailhead, then deliver your bags to your hotel ahead of you. Available for passengers booked on our service only — not standalone cargo.

Yes — hotels, homes, Airbnb, offices, and cruise terminals across Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Chiba, and Saitama. For destinations outside the Greater Tokyo Area (Hakone, Nikko, Karuizawa), contact us for a quote.

Yes. We serve Osanbashi Pier and Daikoku Pier — approximately 30 minutes from central Tokyo. Please include your vessel name and arrival/departure time when booking.

Yes — both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Approximately 30–40 minutes from central Tokyo. Book at least 48 hours ahead during peak seasons and school holidays.

Yes. We operate across Japan — Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Nikko, Karuizawa, ski resorts in Nagano and Niigata, and beyond. Same-day and multi-day itineraries available. Contact us for a quote on any destination.

Contact us immediately at info@octoshell.jp. We check with the chauffeur right away. If found, we arrange return shipping at the client's expense. Items are held for 30 days.

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