Golf Transfers: Why Experience Matters More Than the Vehicle

A.

Yes, no worries.

Based on our prior arrangement, I can either park and wait near the arrival exit inside the terminal, or wait in the “pickup lane” just across the crosswalk outside the airport building.

I have welcomed many international guests at Narita Airport on behalf of corporate clients. Of course, during my chauffeur days, I handled countless airport assignments as well and always strive to maintain a calm and courteous demeanor.

 Click here to see the Narita Airport pickup on Instagram

A.

Yes, recently there are more services labeled as “low-cost” including hire cars, taxis, and even unlicensed rides.

Fujisaki Taxi is a licensed individual taxi operator and operates under official government-approved fares. Some customers who previously used these cheaper options have told us, “It was just an Alphard with a foreign driver.” Since then, they’ve continued to use Fujisaki Taxi for their transfers.

Rather than the lowest price, many choose us because they value a “trusted and professional transfer experience.”

A.

Yes, many new individual taxi websites have appeared in the last 1–2 years.

Some focus only on appearance, with little actual experience. Our website was launched in 2020, and together with long-established services like LEXUS Taxi and Honda Taxi,

we are one of the more reliable operators with a long track record.

Since launch, we’ve steadily built experience through consistent, honest service.

🌐 LEXUS Taxi Official Site

🌐 Honda Alphard Taxi Official Site

A.

To be honest, I had no intention of emphasizing that in the beginning.

For the past two years, I haven’t paid much attention to the website or actively promoted the business.

One day, I searched for “Golf Course Taxi Transfer” and noticed a rapid increase in similar websites.

Back in 2020, there were just a few sites at the top—such as LEXUS Group and Honda Taxi—and all were fairly modest. But lately, I started seeing words like “experienced,” “many achievements,” and “high repeat rate,” which felt exaggerated. Even Google’s AI summaries (SGE) reflect inaccurate information, which I felt could mislead potential clients and harm the industry.

That’s why I decided to publish real, experience-based information. Individual taxi drivers generally come from either corporate taxis or hire car services (chauffeurs). Those with hire car experience typically handled business golf, airport transfers, and full-day charters as routine work—and the experience level is very high. On the other hand, some taxi-origin drivers launch websites without that background.

Frankly, very few drivers can truly claim “experienced” just from individual taxi work alone. Switching to a van and claiming expertise without golf transfer experience often blurs the line between private leisure and professional service. That’s why I now choose to emphasize being a former chauffeur—not as a boast, but as something I’ve genuinely built over the years.

A.

Individual taxis are not corporations—they are operated as sole proprietorships.

While some websites may use corporate-style language, in reality, each service is run by a single driver who takes full responsibility. At Fujisaki Taxi, I also handle all operations personally and sincerely, as a former professional chauffeur.

A.

Google’s “AI Overview (SGE)” is still an experimental feature.

Even Google clearly states that it does not guarantee accuracy. Recently, we’ve seen a rise in poetic, stylized taxi websites using terms like “VIP hire service,” “company president,” and “luxury atmosphere.”

These kinds of pages often emphasize appearance over substance, and AI sometimes mistakenly includes them as reliable sources. At Fujisaki Taxi, we prioritize substance over image—

17 years of golf transfer experience and over 1,000 real-world service cases are what matter most to us. Trust is not built through fancy words—

It’s earned through mileage, time, and genuine connection with every client.

A.

Google search results (especially blog content and AI-generated summaries) may temporarily prioritize frequency of updates and formal structure over factual accuracy.

As a result, even unreliable content may appear at the top if it:

• Uses flashy words like “VIP hire” or “corporate exclusive”

• Focuses more on stylized writing than real achievements

• Posts vague or keyword-heavy blog articles frequently

Such behavior sometimes temporarily tricks the AI into thinking it’s relevant.

But this simply shows that the search system is still imperfect. Content that is meaningless to readers will eventually be reevaluated by Google too.

The true value lies in genuine achievements and steady trust built over time. Fujisaki Taxi shares real experiences without exaggeration or decorative wording.

We believe that, in the long run, authentic and honest information will be recognized properly.

A.

Yes, we are a registered Qualified Invoice Issuer under the system.

Upon request, we can issue an official receipt (qualified invoice) compliant with the Japanese Invoice System.

It is fully valid for corporate expense claims or company reimbursements.

Please feel free to ask when making a reservation or during your ride.

A.

While we occasionally receive kind words from our customers, we prefer not to solicit or publish reviews.

We believe that “proven track record is the best evidence,” rather than marketing-style testimonials.

Instead, we share daily scenes and thoughts on our Instagram and blog in a natural and honest manner.

📸 Instagram

📝 Blog: “Track record is the proof”

📝 Ameblo blog archive

A.

For me, this is just a natural stance.

It’s not something I was told to do — I’m simply sharing part of my history quietly, within what is reasonable.

Due to confidentiality and privacy considerations, not everything is made public.

In particular, matters related to corporate clients and business occasions cannot always be disclosed.

Still, I believe showing “what kind of situations I’ve worked in and how I got here” is essential for your peace of mind.

This isn’t a special appeal — it’s simply part of the foundation.

A.

Yes, as long as there is no other booking for the next day, same-day or last-minute requests are welcome.

In fact, I’ve helped clients who lost their driver’s license or had difficulty reaching the location by public transport — even when they contacted me the evening before.

Even at the last minute, please feel free to reach out.

📞 0120-139-681 (10:00–18:00)

Line

Reservation

📩 Contact by Email

A.

Because I believe websites are meant to “convey,” not “decorate.”

I see no value in raising the barrier with showy words like “luxury,” “VIP,” or “premium look.”

If the information quietly reaches those who truly need it, that’s enough for me.

Rather than flashy presentation or fancy phrasing,

I value conveying my experience and accumulated record sincerely, precisely, and without exaggeration.

The result may look plain,

but that’s because I aim to be chosen for the content within.

A.

In the actual field, I strongly feel that what matters most is “whether you can be trusted,” not “flashiness.”

Of course, I have no intention of denying luxury spaces or VIP treatment.

However, through my experience, I’ve learned that even with just a single Crown sedan, by delivering service quietly, properly, and carefully, customers are fully satisfied.

I have completed over 1,000 transfers in 17 years, with a background in professional chauffeur service.

I believe that sensing the atmosphere and responding with care rather than many words —

Such an attitude, consistently applied, leads to what I consider true “quality.”

Even without selling a “luxurious” image,

being told at the end, “I felt safe” or “I’m glad I booked with you” —

That is what matters most to me.

A.

This is a frequently asked question, but to start, I believe it doesn’t always have to be an Alphard.

Transfers should be chosen not by car model, but based on “reliability and service quality.”

[Realities of Golf Transfers]

In many cases of corporate golf outings, there are two hosts and two guests —

It is common to use 2 or even 4 separate taxis or chauffeur cars.

It’s also not unusual for subordinates to arrive separately by train or bus.

In other words, the idea of “everyone going together in one vehicle” is

actually the minority case when it comes to business golf.

[Airport Transfer Cases — Narita]

For business trips or family vacations, the Crown’s trunk usually provides sufficient capacity.

With proper pre-checks and some ingenuity, even suitcases, carry-ons, and golf bags can all be loaded effectively.

I’ve successfully handled families of four for Narita transfers multiple times, adjusting flexibly depending on luggage volume.

[Why the Crown?]

The Crown has long been used by major chauffeur companies like Nihon Kotsu as a “standard vehicle.”

I’ve also used the Crown for VIP transfers throughout my career, and based on that experience,

I prioritize “safety and comfort” over flashy appearance.

[Customer Comments]

One client once said:

“So, is your next car an Alphard?”

“Shall I buy you an Alphard?”

“Next time, in black?”

Of course, they were half-joking — but I took it as a sign that they trusted the driver more than the vehicle.

Rather than brand or design,

“Who is driving and how they respond” provides the real sense of security for customers.

That’s what I believe in — and I treat each transfer with that mindset.

A.

No, this is not acceptable under the current regulations and legal framework in Japan.

In Japanese law, taxis and hire vehicles (chauffeur-driven) are clearly categorized as separate business types, each requiring a different license:

• Taxi: General Passenger Transport Business (with rooftop light, can pick up passengers on the street)

• Hire car: General Passenger Transport Business (no rooftop light, completely by reservation only)

In short, for a licensed taxi to advertise itself as a “hire service” is potentially misleading and may be considered deceptive advertising under Japanese law.

A.

Yes, two main legal foundations apply:

1. Road Transportation Act, Article 4

→ Separate permits are required for each business category. Taxis and hire cars are not interchangeable under the law.

2. Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations (Labeling Act)

→ Representations that exaggerate or mislead beyond actual service quality may constitute “misleading superior representation” and are subject to correction by authorities.

Furthermore, oversight agencies such as the Tokyo Taxi Center have issued warnings and guidance against using wording that may cause confusion with hire services.

A.

It’s very simple:

If the vehicle has a rooftop light (sign), it’s a taxi. If not, it’s a hire car.

I previously worked over 10 years at a professional chauffeur company, but now operate a legal and properly licensed individual taxi service.

More than appearances or wording, I hope you will value experience, responsiveness, and peace of mind.

A.

No, this is legally and structurally problematic.

Taxis and hire cars (chauffeur-driven services) fall under clearly distinct categories under Japanese transport law:

• Taxi: Licensed under “General Passenger Transport Business” with roof signage (lantern) and street pickup allowed.

• Hire (Chauffeur): Also licensed under “General Passenger Transport Business” but without roof signage, and strictly by reservation.

Therefore, for a taxi driver to use the term “hire service” is misleading and potentially constitutes false or exaggerated advertising.

A.

There are two primary legal references:

1. Road Transport Act (Article 4)
→ Requires specific licensing by service type. Taxis and hire cars are distinct businesses.

2. Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations (Japanese consumer law)
→ Overstating one’s services may constitute a “misleading representation” and be subject to correction orders.

Additionally, oversight agencies like the Tokyo Taxi Center consider phrases that mislead customers into believing a taxi is a hire service as a compliance issue subject to guidance or warning.

A.

It’s simple:

If there’s a roof lantern, it’s a taxi. If not, it’s a hire car.

I have over a decade of experience working at a professional hire service company, and I now operate as a licensed individual taxi driver.

More important than appearances or wording are the driver’s experience, adaptability, and reliability.

A.

In Tokyo, “major” usually refers to the four largest and most established companies, collectively nicknamed the “Great Empire of Japan” within the industry:

• Nihon Kotsu
• Kokusai Motorcars (km Group)
• Daiwa Motor Transportation
• Teito Motor Transportation

These companies have the largest fleets, structured driver training, and strong reputations, making them the industry’s core.

A.

Frankly, anyone can say “I used to work for a major company,” but it’s not always true.

Since there is no formal verification required, even drivers from small local companies can make such claims.

If someone genuinely worked for a top-tier company, they can usually state clearly:

• Which company they worked for
• How many years
• What kind of duties (e.g., exclusive driver for executives, hire service, or sightseeing)

For example, I was an exclusive hire driver for a major trading company executive.

I’ve served VIPs including cabinet ministers, pro baseball managers, and even recipients of the People’s Honour Award.

I now apply that experience to my work as an individual taxi operator.

A.

To be honest, when someone goes out of their way to state “flexible service,” it can sometimes feel like they’re trying too hard.

In real fieldwork — especially golf transfers — things often don’t go exactly as planned: delays, extended lunches, or weather changes.

A seasoned driver naturally anticipates and adjusts to such changes without needing to boast about it.

Over the years, I’ve also handled changes in passenger count, additional stopovers, or last-minute destination changes — all part of the job during my hire car days.

Flexibility is not a special option — it’s the baseline expectation in professional service.

When I see articles highlighting “flexibility” as a key benefit, I often wonder if they truly understand the fieldwork involved.

What really matters is not what’s written, but what’s actually delivered — based on real experience.

In the Tokyo area, when someone says “major taxi or hire car company,” they are typically referring to the so-called “Great Japanese Empire” — a nickname within the industry for the following four major companies:

• Nihon Kotsu (Nihon Kōtsū)

• Kokusai Motorcars (km Taxi)

• Daiwa Motor Transportation

• Teito Motor Transportation

These four are known collectively by their initials as the “Great Japanese Empire” group.

They are widely recognized as the industry leaders in fleet size, training systems, and clientele.

A.

Frankly speaking, it’s not uncommon for operators to describe themselves as “ex-major company” even if they only worked at a small-scale local business.

Since there’s no formal verification system, anyone can claim they worked for a major company.

If they truly worked for a major operator, they would naturally be able to explain:

• The actual company name

• How many years they worked there

• What kind of role they had (e.g. executive chauffeur, hire car division, sightseeing transfer, etc.)

As for myself, I previously served as an executive hire car driver for a major trading company.

I’ve had the honor of chauffeuring a sitting Cabinet Minister, a pro baseball team manager, and even a recipient of the People’s Honour Award.

I continue to apply the experience and mindset developed through those real-life duties to my current work as a private taxi operator.

A.

Honestly, when I see “flexible service available” written on a site, it sometimes feels a bit odd to me.

In golf transfers, delays are common — games run late, parties go overtime, or events get extended. These things happen all the time.

For experienced drivers, such situations are expected. We plan ahead, set reasonable schedules, and adapt accordingly. It’s all part of the job.

I’ve handled changes in the number of passengers, added stops, and altered return destinations — many times during my hire car career.

“Flexible response” is not a bonus feature — it’s the baseline expectation.

So when I see flexibility described as a “special advantage,” I often wonder:

“Was this written by someone without real field experience?”

What really matters is not whether it’s written, but:

How does the operator actually respond in the moment — and how much experience do they have?

A.

When replacing my old Crown (Zero Crown) with the current model, I briefly considered the Alphard.

However, even now, for golf transfers — whether hire cars or taxis — sedans like the Crown or Lexus are the mainstream choice.

Personally, I prioritized ride comfort and stability over spaciousness.

Especially for routes through the Aqua Line or bay area, we often cross wind-prone bridges.

In such cases, higher vehicles like the Alphard are more susceptible to crosswinds, causing sway and unstable steering.

Meanwhile, the Crown is a sedan by design, offering a much lower center of gravity and superior stability.

This results in calm, steady rides even in strong winds — helping passengers feel secure and relaxed.

True, the Alphard offers a more spacious and “luxurious-looking” interior,

but in practice, a Crown can still comfortably fit 3 golf bags and 3 passengers.

With a bit of creative packing, even 4 passengers have been accommodated.

I’ve also transported a family of four with two large suitcases to Narita Airport in the Crown.

The Alphard is often thought of as offering “more space,” but

in reality, the difference isn’t as drastic as many assume.

Of course, the Alphard has its own appeal.

But “comfort” isn’t defined solely by spaciousness or appearance.

Especially when passengers are tired after a round or traveling early in the morning or late at night,

the Crown’s “quiet and smooth ride” often provides greater comfort.

Ultimately, I chose the Crown

because of its well-rounded sedan quality, driving stability, and ride comfort.

This was a choice based on practicality and reliability — not flashiness.

A.

Yes, please rest assured.

The Crown I currently use (220 Series) shares the same TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform as Lexus.

Its body rigidity and suspension performance are very close to that of a Lexus.

My particular Crown is a high-grade model in the lineage of the former Royal Majesta, featuring:

– Excellent cabin quietness

– Soft suspension for passenger comfort

– Rear seat design suitable for long-distance rides

— These points have received positive feedback in actual golf and airport transfers for being “comfortable.”

From everyday experience, I believe what matters most is not the badge, but “a ride with minimal vibration and reduced fatigue.”

Still, I often get the question: “Is the Crown a luxury car?”

Indeed, it was once called “Someday, a Crown,” but in today’s industry, it’s categorized as an upper-mid class sedan.

For example, Japan’s largest chauffeur service—Nihon Kotsu—classifies their vehicles as follows:

• Standard Class: Crown, Lexus ES, etc.
• High Class: Lexus LS, Century
• Wagon Class: Alphard, Hiace

So yes, the Crown is upscale, but it is not an ultra-VIP vehicle — it’s a trusted, standard-grade sedan.

Among private taxis as well, the Crown offers a reassuring impression as a “proper car.”

More than appearances, what matters is who’s driving it.

With over 17 years of experience and a background as a former executive chauffeur,

I prioritize “calm driving,” “respectful silence,” and “precise timekeeping,”

— delivering not just a brand, but reliable service.

Of course, Lexus and Alphard both have their merits.

However, there is a reason I’ve intentionally chosen the Crown and built a strong track record with it.

“It’s not about the name — it’s about substance and trust.” That’s the core of my transport service.

A.

The biggest advantage is that you can enjoy the same level of vehicle and service as a hire car — but at a more affordable fare.

Depending on the driver’s experience, the level of service may even exceed that of a hire car.

On the other hand, since the car has a taxi sign (light), it may not look as luxurious as a typical hire vehicle.

A. Yes, those are certainly important factors.

However, they aren’t unique advantages of private taxis — they are expected standards in professional hire services.

At Fujisaki Taxi, I’ve been handling executive golf and business transport for over 17 years, based on my background in hire car service.

In that context, flexibility and privacy are just the basics. What truly matters includes:

• Precision in timing with zero margin for delay
• Attention to approach and loading flow
• On-the-spot decision-making when guest lists change
• Ability to sense the right distance and atmosphere for each client

These rely on the driver’s individual judgment and accumulated experience.

Flexibility isn’t a “plus” — it’s the baseline.

Privacy isn’t a “selling point” — it’s a matter of professional respect.

Even “room for luggage” depends not only on vehicle size but also on how it’s arranged, secured, and protected from movement — all of which require driver skill.

At Fujisaki Taxi, we believe that true comfort lies in the unseen details.

A.

The biggest advantage is that you can enjoy the same level of vehicle and service as a hire car, but at a more reasonable fare.

Depending on the driver’s experience, the responsiveness may even surpass that of a professional hire service.

On the other hand, compared to hire vehicles, the illuminated taxi sign (“andon”) may slightly reduce the appearance of luxury from the outside.

A. Yes, these are certainly important factors.

However, such qualities are considered basic requirements in the world of professional hire services.

At Fujisaki Taxi, with over 17 years of experience as a former hire car driver,

I have provided transport for many executive golf outings and corporate guests.

In such cases, what’s required goes beyond flexibility and privacy, and includes:

• Punctuality with no room for error
• Careful planning for pickup and luggage loading paths
• Decision-making skills for sudden changes in passenger lineup
• Awareness of appropriate distance and atmosphere based on the guest’s status

In short, the overall quality depends on the driver’s judgment and experience.

🔸 Flexibility is not a “bonus” — it’s a “minimum requirement.”

🔸 Privacy is not a “selling point” — it’s a basic consideration.

Even “ample luggage space” requires skill in arrangement, securing, and movement prevention — not just vehicle size.

At Fujisaki Taxi, we believe that true comfort comes from attention to the invisible details.

A.

We are based in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo.

A.

Our designated operating area is Tokyo’s 23 wards, Musashino City, and Mitaka City (as defined by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).

A.

In addition to golf course and Narita Airport transfers, we also provide transportation for:

• Hospital visits

• Memorial services and cemetery visits

• Lectures and event transportation

• Concerts and theatre outings

• Soccer matches and other events

A.

Yes, all of the above are achievements since starting my private taxi business.

Records of golf transfers from my time as a professional hire car driver are introduced on a separate page.

Click here for those records ︎ Golf Transfer Record (Hire Car Period)

A.

In short, it is difficult to trust companies that do not disclose their address.

The taxi business is a licensed operation regulated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in Japan. Office locations are officially registered with the Transport Bureau. Nevertheless, some operators choose to hide their address on their website or social media, which raises concerns such as:

• No clear contact point for complaints or trouble

• Doubt about the legitimacy of the business

• Appears irresponsible (as if preparing an escape route)

From a Google evaluation standpoint, especially under E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness), a site that does not disclose its address may be penalized in credibility. **Stating your location is considered a basic prerequisite.**

A.

Within the industry, golf-course transfers have traditionally been considered a job “for hire cars,” not for regular taxis.

Corporate golf, executive outings, and guest hospitality are essentially business activities. They require advance booking, long on-site waiting, and a driver who can handle etiquette and on-the-spot decisions.

Such work almost never occurs in the daily routine of a fleet (corporate) taxi driver, whose main duties are street hails and taxi-stand pickups. So taxis were simply not called in for golf transfers.

Consequently, when a driver with a corporate-taxi background starts a private taxi, it is only natural that he or she has little to no real golf-transfer experience.

On the other hand, private taxis run by former hire-car chauffeurs have carried out these runs for years before opening their own businesses, so they are well-versed in the flow, etiquette, and timing of golf transfers.

Golf transfers are less about “luxury” and more about business-class attention to detail. That is why choosing a driver with proven, on-the-ground experience is essential.