Rickshaws, a popular mode of transportation during the Meiji and Taisho periods, are still seen today in various tourist destinations across Japan, with drivers pulling two-wheeled carts carrying passengers. But did you know you can also ride a rickshaw in Minato City? Fully going into business in October 2024, Tokyo Minato Rickshaw Tanakaya offers a rickshaw experience in Minato City. Led by Hironori Tanaka, the company’s representative, Tanaka is committed to passing on Japan’s traditions and culture to the next generation. Today, he continues to pull rickshaws with that mission in mind. In this article, we’ll introduce you to Tanaka’s efforts as a rickshaw driver and share a recommended route, highlighting the charm of exploring Minato City by rickshaw.

The starting point for your rickshaw journey is Zojoji Temple, one of Minato City’s iconic temples. Tanakaya has an exclusive agreement with Zojoji Temple, granting them permission to operate within the temple grounds. Mr. Tanaka says, "During occasions like Shichi-Go-San (a traditional celebration for children), we had many customers ride our rickshaws at Zojoji Temple. Previously, I would travel to events to offer rickshaw experiences, but now we operate year-round, so feel free to approach us if you see us at Zojoji Temple." If the rickshaw is available, you can hop on immediately. However, making a reservation in advance via phone ensures a smoother experience. For contact details, please refer to the bottom of the page.

On this occasion, the reporting team followed alongside Mr. Tanaka’s rickshaw to document the experience. The route begins in front of the Sangedatsumon Gate at Zojoji Temple, loops around Shiba Park, and returns to the starting point. It takes about 15 minutes. Mr. Tanaka explains that while standard routes are available, they can be freely customized to accommodate customer requests, such as traveling to Hamamatsucho Station or exploring Azabudai Hills.

And with that, the journey begins. The first stop is Hibiya-dori Street in front of the Sangedatsumon Gate. Since rickshaws are classified as light vehicles like bicycles, they travel on roads, and Mr. Tanaka exercises great care while driving. "Ensuring the safety of my passengers is a top priority. Additionally, I strive to demonstrate to the local community that rickshaws are a safe and reliable mode of transportation."

From Hibiya-dori, the rickshaw turns onto a narrow alley between Zojoji Temple and the Tokyo Prince Hotel. Sitting higher than in a car, passengers can enjoy a leisurely view of the passing scenery.

This quiet alley has little traffic, and with Tokyo Tower in front of you, it is an ideal spot for sightseeing.

The rickshaw attracts curious glances from passersby, some of whom even take pictures. Mr. Tanaka encourages customers riding the rickshaw to wave to people on the street, as most will wave back, with children almost always responding with enthusiasm.

Leaving the alley, the rickshaw enters the four-lane Hakusan-Iwaida-Tamachi Line, with Tokyo Tower in sight. Traveling at a jogging pace, Mr. Tanaka maintains a steady speed. His stamina is impressive, as he pulls the rickshaw effortlessly. "Many customers ask me, ‘Isn’t it tough?’ but pulling a rickshaw every day naturally builds endurance, so I don’t find it difficult. That said, Minato City has many slopes, which might require more muscle than other areas."

Continuing along the Hakusan-Iwaida-Tamachi Line, the rickshaw reaches the Akabanebashi intersection. Across from Zojoji Temple and to the left of the road is Momijidani, an artificial valley within Shiba Park that serves as a popular relaxation spot.

At notable landmarks or historical sites, Mr. Tanaka stops the rickshaw to provide guided explanations. "My primary goal is to ensure customers enjoy their ride. I also want to introduce them to the many spots around Minato City, so I don’t just pull the rickshaw—I also tailor my routes to the customer’s interests."

Currently, about 70% of customers are from overseas. Spots like Zojoji Temple, Shiba Park, and Tokyo Tower are highlights, along with others such as Shiba Daijingu Shrine, which has over a thousand years of history, and Tokyo Port Brewery, the only sake brewery in the 23 wards of Tokyo. Mr. Tanaka mentions that the illuminated Keyakizaka Street during winter offers a stunning view, while the old-town charm of the Shiba 3-chome area provides a wonderfully quaint experience.

As the ride nears its end, the rickshaw approaches the Sangedatsumon Gate. Just before that, the Soumon Gate of the former mausoleum of the second Tokugawa shogun, Hidetada, comes into view. This gate is a designated Important Cultural Property.

The rickshaw returns to Hibiya-dori for the final stretch, carefully navigating the flow of traffic.

Finally, it arrives back at the starting point, Sangedatsumon Gate, marking the end of the rickshaw experience.

While the day was clear and sunny, rickshaw rides are also available on rainy days. On such occasions, the rickshaw is equipped with waterproof coverings on the rear and sides, along with waterproof lap blankets to keep passengers dry and protected from the elements. Mr. Tanaka himself dons a traditional straw hat, familiar from period dramas, as he pulls the rickshaw. Generally, the rickshaw can accommodate up to two adults, but passengers with small children may hold them during the ride.

Mr. Tanaka originally worked as a chef at a small restaurant, creating sake pairing menus. However, the COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to serve sake, and the crisis also brought attention to the challenges facing Japan’s traditional crafts and industries. Inspired to take action, Mr. Tanaka decided to change his path. During a visit to his hometown in Mie Prefecture, he encountered a rickshaw at Ise Shrine and began working as a rickshaw driver around 2020. Reflecting on this decision, Mr. Tanaka shares that he felt it aligned with his goals, as rickshaws represent the origins of Japan’s vehicle culture. He became passionate about sharing the beauty of Japanese traditions and culture through rickshaws.

After working for a private company involved in regional revitalization, Mr. Tanaka decided to start his own business and founded Tokyo Minato Rickshaw Tanakaya. He recalls that his desire to promote rickshaws to the world coincided with a fortunate connection to Minato City. Mr. Tanaka explains that he saw Minato City, located at the heart of Tokyo and attracting visitors from all over the world, as an ideal place to explore new possibilities for rickshaws. After engaging in occasional events and collaborations, Mr. Tanaka began full-time operations in October 2024. He expresses his hope to share the unique scenery and charm of Minato City and warmly invites people to experience a rickshaw ride. If you’re looking to connect with Japan’s traditions and culture, why not take a rickshaw ride in Minato City?

Tokyo Minato Rickshaw Tanakaya
Contact & Reservations: TEL: 070-5343-3296
Website: https://coubic.com/rickshaw-tanakaya
Instagram: @hironori.rickshaw
Rates: For 2 passengers, 15 minutes ¥5,000, 30 minutes ¥11,000, 60 minutes ¥19,000.
*Other options include special packages for Shichi-Go-San, shrine visits, weddings, and more. Please contact for details.