How to Ride LUUP in Japan: A Complete Guide for Tourists


Japan’s bustling cities and charming neighborhoods are perfect for exploring on two wheels—and LUUP, a shared electric bike and e-scooter service, makes that easier than ever. Whether you’re sightseeing or just going a short distance, LUUP gives you the freedom to move at your own pace. This guide walks you through how to borrow and return a LUUP vehicle, what you’ll need, rules to follow, and where you can use the service.


🚲 What Is LUUP?

LUUP is a Japanese micromobility platform offering electric bicycles and e-scooters that you can rent via a smartphone app. It’s available in many major cities and tourist destinations across Japan, and it’s especially popular for short trips around train stations, hotels, shopping areas, and sightseeing spots.


📲 Step-by-Step: How to Rent a LUUP Vehicle

LUUP’s process is simple but thorough to ensure your safety and compliance with local laws.

✅ Step 1: Download the LUUP App

  • Available on iOS App Store and Google Play.
  • Select English in the language settings for international use.

✅ Step 2: Create an Account

  • Register using your email and phone number.
  • You do not need a Japanese driver’s license.
  • Instead, upload a valid photo ID such as:
    • Your passport
    • An international driver’s license
    • A residence card (if you’re living in Japan)

📝 Note: The app will guide you through uploading documents and verifying your identity.

✅ Step 3: Watch a Safety Video & Pass the Test

  • LUUP requires all users to complete a traffic rules learning course and short test before their first ride.
  • All content is available in English and is designed to be tourist-friendly.
  • The quiz takes only a few minutes and ensures you understand basic riding rules in Japan.

✅ Step 4: Find a Nearby LUUP Spot

  • Open the LUUP app map to locate available vehicles near you.
  • You’ll see icons for either electric bikes or e-scooters.
  • Tap a vehicle to reserve it—reservations are held for a few minutes while you walk to the location.

✅ Step 5: Unlock and Start Your Ride

  • Once you arrive at the LUUP vehicle, scan the QR code using the app.
  • Wait for the “unlocked” message and then start your ride.
  • For e-scooters, push off with your foot once or twice before accelerating using the throttle.
  • For electric bikes, simply pedal—the motor will assist you.

🧤 Helmets are recommended, and some LUUP spots provide free helmets in lockers nearby.


Step-by-Step: How to Return a LUUP Vehicle

You must return LUUP vehicles to designated LUUP parking ports.

🅿️ Step 1: Locate a Parking Port

  • While riding, check the LUUP app map for available parking spots.
  • Not all areas allow returns—returning to an incorrect location may result in extra fees.

🅿️ Step 2: Park Properly

  • Park the vehicle neatly inside the white rectangle marked “LUUP.”
  • Do not block sidewalks, ramps, entrances, or other pedestrians.
  • If it’s a shared bike rack, make sure you don’t block others.

🅿️ Step 3: End the Ride in the App

  • Tap “End Ride” in the app.
  • You may be asked to take a photo of the parked vehicle to confirm it’s parked correctly.

How Much Does LUUP Cost?

LUUP is affordable and charged by the minute.

  • Unlock fee: ¥50–¥100 (varies by city)
  • Per-minute fee: About ¥15–¥20
  • Example: A 10-minute ride typically costs around ¥200–¥300.

💡You can check the fare estimate in the app before starting a ride.


⚠️ Important Rules and Safety Tips

  • Do not ride on sidewalks, unless signs specifically allow it.
  • One rider per vehicle only.
  • No use of phones or headphones while riding.
  • Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • 🚦 Follow all traffic signals, road signs, and bike lane rules.

🚫 Illegal Parking is a Serious Offense
If you leave a LUUP vehicle outside a designated parking port:

  • You may be violating Japanese traffic laws, which can result in fines or penalties.
  • The ride will not end, and fees will continue to accumulate until the vehicle is returned properly.
  • These charges will be billed directly to your credit card.
  • Improperly parked vehicles can block sidewalks or roads, causing inconvenience or danger to others.

Please always return LUUP vehicles to official parking spots and double-check before ending your ride.


Where Can You Use LUUP?

As of July 2025, LUUP is available in the following cities:

Cities:

  • Tokyo
  • Osaka
  • Kyoto
  • Yokohama
  • Nagoya
  • Fukuoka
  • Sapporo
  • Kobe
  • Hiroshima
  • Sendai
  • Okayama
  • Nagasaki
  • Kitakyushu
  • Oita
  • Utsunomiya
  • Takamatsu
  • Kumamoto
  • Toyama
  • Fujisawa
  • Chigasaki
  • Kawasaki
  • Hachioji
  • Kamakura
  • Niigata
  • Tsu
  • Matsuyama
  • Shizuoka (limited areas)
  • Kagoshima (pilot testing in progress)

🌐 LUUP is constantly expanding. Check the app for the latest availability in your area.


Is LUUP Good for Tourists?

Absolutely! Here’s why travelers love LUUP:

  • No need for a Japanese license
  • App and test are fully in English
  • Great for sightseeing in neighborhoods and parks
  • Avoid traffic and crowded public transit
  • Easy payment with credit card or Apple Pay/Google Pay
  • Eco-friendly and fun!

Final Tips Before You Ride

  • Check weather conditions (riding in rain is not recommended).
  • Always check battery level before starting.
  • Take your time with the safety test—understanding the rules helps everyone.

Ready to explore Japan like a local?
Download LUUP, take the safety test, and ride with confidence!

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