Rickshaw Rides in Asakusa and Kyoto: A Short History and What to Expect

Discover where the jinrikisha came from, how a sightseeing rickshaw ride works in Asakusa and Kyoto, and what to ask before climbing aboard.

Published October 19, 2026 at 11:21 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: A rickshaw (jinrikisha, "human-powered vehicle") is a two-wheeled carriage pulled by a runner. It is generally said to have been invented in Japan around 1869 and later spread across Asia. Today, rickshaws operate as sightseeing rides in historic districts such as Asakusa in Tokyo and parts of Kyoto, where drivers pull riders along short routes and share local history.

What a jinrikisha is

The word jinrikisha is built from three kanji meaning person, power and vehicle, and the English "rickshaw" is a shortened form of it. The vehicle has two large wheels, a bench-like seat for one or two passengers, a folding hood for sun or rain, and two shafts that a runner holds while pulling. Britannica describes it as a light carriage that was first used in Japan in the nineteenth century, and notes that its inventor is unknown.

Modern sightseeing rickshaws follow the same basic shape. The seat is low and open, which gives riders a clear view of lanterns, shop fronts and temple gates at walking speed. Because the runner moves on foot at a modest pace, the ride feels slower and more personal than a taxi, and it works well for short loops through narrow lanes where cars are not common.

A short history

Wikipedia summarizes the standard account this way: wheeled passenger vehicles had been restricted during the Tokugawa period, and when that restriction ended, rickshaws appeared in Tokyo around 1869. The most widely accepted version credits Izumi Yosuke and two partners, who were reportedly inspired by the horse carriages that had recently arrived in the city. Other inventors have been proposed, so the exact origin remains debated.

Growth was rapid, and the vehicle quickly became a familiar sight in the capital. In 1870 the Tokyo government licensed the three builders to make and sell rickshaws, and by about 1872 roughly 40,000 were in service, replacing older palanquin-style carriers as a main form of transport. Japanese makers also produced and exported rickshaws to other Asian countries and South Africa. Motor cars and trains reduced their everyday role by the 1930s.

Rickshaw rides in Asakusa

Asakusa is the most convenient place in Tokyo to try a rickshaw. According to the Tokyo tourism board, rides take passengers through the streets of historic Asakusa, and the drivers act as guides who explain the district's history and are happy to help riders take photographs. The nearest subway stations are only a minute or two on foot from the listed office.

Several operators run short courses, and the Tokyo tourism board listing for one operator shows rides starting at a few thousand yen per ride, with cash and major cards accepted at the time of that listing. Prices, course lengths and hours differ by company and season, so check the operator's official page or ask before boarding.

After the ride, the area is easy to explore on foot. Sensoji Temple, the shopping street leading to it and the quiet side lanes are all within walking distance of Kaminarimon Gate, and subway stations are close by. Riders who hear a story about a particular lantern, gate or statue during the ride can then return to look at it more slowly and take their own photographs.

Rickshaw rides in Kyoto

Kyoto is full of old temples, wooden townhouses and stone-paved lanes, and rickshaw rides continue in some historic neighborhoods. Wikipedia notes that traditional rickshaws survive for tourists and in Kyoto and Tokyo's geisha districts, where narrow streets and wooden buildings suit a slow ride. Routes usually stay close to well-known temples, shrines and old shopping lanes rather than covering long distances.

Because routes, fees and meeting points depend on the operator, the best approach is to check the current Kyoto tourism information or ask at a hotel desk. Many operators offer short, medium and longer courses, and the runner may pause at points of interest. Riders in kimono or in winter coats may want to ask whether blankets or a rain cover are available.

Choosing a course and booking

Courses are usually described by length: a short loop, a medium course that covers a few more streets, and a longer tour that adds extra sights. The right choice depends on time, weather and group size. A short course is a good first try, and longer courses make sense for couples or small groups who enjoy hearing about local history.

Booking is often possible on the spot at a stand, but busy days such as weekends, holidays and festival seasons can mean waiting, so an advance reservation through the operator's official page is a sensible option. Groups of three or more adults are generally placed in more than one rickshaw, according to one Tokyo tourism board listing. Children and luggage policies differ, so ask the operator directly.

What to expect and how to prepare

A typical ride lasts anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the course. The runner usually greets riders, helps them step up, and talks about nearby sights during the ride. Talking is optional and entirely up to the rider, and couples or families can simply enjoy the scenery. Where English commentary is available, the operator's official page generally says so; if it does not, a brief request ahead of time clarifies it.

Dress for the weather, since most seats are open to the air. Keep hands and bags inside the carriage, remain seated while moving, and follow the runner's directions when boarding or stepping off. It helps to confirm the price per person or per rickshaw, the length of the course and the payment method before setting off, so there is no confusion at the end.

Modern variations and related ideas

Rickshaws belong to a wider family of human-powered vehicles. The bicycle-powered pedicab, which Britannica says largely replaced the pulled version in many places, is one relative. Wikipedia also notes that cycle rickshaws called velotaxis appeared in Japanese cities in the 1990s and are seen in Kyoto and Tokyo, though availability depends on the area.

Before the rickshaw, people in Japanese cities relied on the kago and the norimono, two kinds of palanquin carried by bearers, and Wikipedia says the rickshaw replaced them as the main form of transport by 1872. A rickshaw ride suits travelers who want a short, scenic and informative introduction to an old district. This guide shares general information; rules change, so confirm details with the official agency or provider before you act.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the rickshaw invented?

The most widely accepted account places the invention in Tokyo around 1869, soon after restrictions on wheeled passenger vehicles ended, and credits Izumi Yosuke and two partners. Britannica says the inventor is unknown, so the details are still discussed. Tokyo began licensing builders in 1870, and the vehicle later spread across Asia.

How much does a rickshaw ride in Asakusa cost?

Prices vary by company, course length and season. One Tokyo tourism board listing shows rides starting at a few thousand yen, but that is only an example. Check the official page of the operator for the current price list, accepted payment methods and opening hours.

Do rickshaw drivers speak English?

Some drivers give commentary in English and others offer limited English, so it varies by operator and by day. The Tokyo tourism board describes drivers as guides who explain local history and help with photos. If English matters, check the operator's page or ask before the ride begins.

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Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Sightseeing Buses in Tokyo: Route Buses, Open-Top Tours and Day Tours, Staying Active in Tokyo: Running Routes, Public Sports Centers and Gyms and Asakusa and Senso-ji: Gates, Lanterns and the Legend of the River Statue.