The initial taxi fare in Muroran City, Hokkaido, and other areas within the Iburi and Hidaka subprefectures will be revised upward by 100 yen to 700 yen starting March 27.

This fare increase is the first in approximately two and a half years.

The fare hike applies to taxis in 18 cities and towns within the Iburi and Hidaka subprefectures, including Muroran City and Tomakomai City.

While the initial fare will increase by 100 yen to 700 yen, the base distance will be slightly extended from 1.237 kilometers to 1.3 kilometers.

The incremental fare will remain at 100 yen, but the distance interval for applying it will be shortened from 303 meters to 275 meters, resulting in a de facto fare increase.

“Maintenance costs and personnel expenses have been rising sharply. We revised the fares to continue providing better service in the future.”

The purpose of this fare revision is to address rising prices and improve driver working conditions.

Muroran City

Muroran City is a major port and industrial center on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, historically developed in the late 19th century as a key hub for coal shipping and steel production. Its cultural identity is closely tied to its industrial heritage and dramatic coastal geography, notably symbolized by the Muroran Port Bridge, one of Japan’s first steel suspension bridges. Today, it is also known for its fresh seafood and scenic viewpoints like Cape Chikyu, which offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding volcanoes.

Hokkaido

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost and second-largest island, historically inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before significant Japanese settlement began in the late 19th century during the Meiji era. Today, it is renowned for its vast natural landscapes, major cities like Sapporo, and distinct seasonal attractions, blending its unique cultural heritage with modern development.

Iburi subprefecture

Iburi subprefecture is a region in southwestern Hokkaido, Japan, best known for containing the vibrant port city of Muroran and the popular hot spring resort town of Noboribetsu. Historically, its development accelerated in the late 19th century with Japanese settlement and industrialization, particularly around Muroran’s steel and port industries. The area is also shaped by its indigenous Ainu heritage and the dramatic volcanic geography of the Shikotsu-Tōya National Park.

Hidaka subprefecture

Hidaka subprefecture is a region located along the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Japan, historically known as the traditional homeland of the Ainu people. It was officially established as a subprefecture in 1897 and developed through forestry, fishing, and agriculture. Today, it is renowned for its natural scenery, thoroughbred horse ranches, and cultural sites like the Biratori Ainu Museum (Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum) that preserve Ainu heritage.

Tomakomai City

Tomakomai is a modern industrial city located on the southern coast of Hokkaido, Japan. Historically a small fishing and farming village, it underwent rapid development in the 20th century with the establishment of a major paper pulp industry and one of Japan’s largest seaports. Today, it is a key economic hub for the region, known for its industrial complexes and as a gateway to the nearby New Chitose Airport.