Part-time Work of 'A Few Evening Hours' or '12 Days a Year' Now OK: Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture Launches Unique Subsidy System for Part-time Taxi Driver Recruitment

Would you like to support regional infrastructure as a part-time taxi driver?

Kameoka City in Kyoto Prefecture is strengthening its recruitment of drivers by launching a unique subsidy system for 'part-time taxi drivers,' who are ideal for side jobs and second jobs, aiming to resolve the issue of nighttime taxi shortages and 'stranded commuters,' which is a nationwide challenge*. This project is a public-private initiative aimed at protecting citizens' transportation routes by promoting diverse working styles, and ensuring that residents can enjoy Kameoka's rich nature and nighttime tourism, including Kyoto Sanga F.C.'s night games, with peace of mind.

*Reference: Current Status of Regional Public Transportation (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)

[Background and Objectives] Worsening 'Stranded Commuters' at Night and Impact on the Regional Economy

According to data compiled by the National Federation of Hire-Taxi Associations, the number of corporate taxi drivers nationwide decreased by approximately 20% (about 60,000 people) from the end of March 2019 (approximately 291,000 people) before the COVID-19 pandemic to the end of March 2023 (approximately 231,000 people). Against the backdrop of an aging driver population, the shortage of drivers operating at night has become a nationwide social issue, affecting both urban and rural areas.

In Kameoka City, the number of operating taxis at night has drastically decreased, leading to waiting times of about 30 minutes for dispatch, making the 'stranded commuter' problem a significant issue. Furthermore, the advancement of the last bus service due to driver shortages exacerbates the problem, raising concerns not only about securing nighttime transportation for citizens but also about the decline in customer traffic for local restaurants and other businesses, impacting the regional economy.

[Implementation Details] A Rare City-Specific Subsidy for 'Part-time/Side Jobs' Nationwide

Until now, taxi companies' recruitment efforts have primarily focused on securing full-time employees. Even Kyoto Taxi Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as Kyoto Taxi), which provides major transportation services in the city, did not offer subsidies for part-time drivers. Therefore, Kameoka City has created a unique subsidy system for 'part-time drivers' as a new approach to secure immediately employable personnel. This is a rare initiative nationwide where a local government directly subsidizes part-time hiring to support companies' recruitment activities, specifically targeting individuals who want to earn money by working 'just a few hours at night.'

[Recruitment Overview] Excellent Time Efficiency. The Appeal of a 'Taxi Side Job' in Kameoka

No cruising or quotas. Zero out-of-pocket expenses for Type II driver's license acquisition (normally approx. 200,000-250,000 yen).

Kyoto Taxi, recruiting under this new system, has established a highly flexible and generous support system to ensure that even inexperienced individuals and those seeking side jobs can work with peace of mind, as follows:

Zero out-of-pocket expenses for Type II driver's license acquisition (normally approx. 200,000-250,000 yen).

Applicants must have held a regular driver's license for 3 years or more (AT-restricted license is acceptable). The cost of acquiring the Type II driver's license, which typically costs around 200,000 to 250,000 yen, is covered (no personal expense required), and it can be obtained in about 7 days of training.

Ultra-Flexible Shifts: 'Just a Few Evening Hours' or 'Only 12 Days a Year'

Flexible work arrangements are possible to match your main job and lifestyle, such as 'only evening hours' or 'a few times a month (e.g., once a month = 12 days a year).' This is ideal for those seeking side jobs who want to earn efficiently in the evenings.

No Cruising or Quotas

Operating styles are limited to 'radio dispatch reservations' and 'waiting at stations.' With no need to search for customers by cruising or face strict quotas, you can work with peace of mind even in a side job.

Guaranteed Minimum Hourly Wage & Company Covers Expenses

While primarily commission-based, a minimum hourly wage is guaranteed (1,403 yen or more for night shifts). Furthermore, all operating expenses such as vehicle and gas costs are covered by the company.

View Recruitment Information in Detail

Infrastructure Development in Preparation for the 2026 'National Urban Greening Fair'

The Kyoto Tamba Greenery Village Festival, held from September 18th this year.

Kameoka City is hosting the '43rd National Urban Greening Fair in Kyoto Tamba' (Kyoto Tamba Greenery Village Festival), one of Japan's largest greening events, from September 18, 2026, and expects a large number of visitors from both domestic and international sources. If nighttime transportation options are scarce, the impact of attracting visitors may be short-lived and fail to translate into increased dining and accommodation in the city.

This system will strengthen nighttime transportation infrastructure, promoting town revitalization and the creation of a sustainable tourism destination.

>> HP for the Kyoto Tamba Greenery Village Festival

[Comments from Person in Charge]

Through this system, Kameoka City aims to secure drivers who can operate at night, thereby building a transportation network that balances improved convenience for citizens with the revitalization of the regional economy.

While protecting the daily lives of our citizens is paramount, maintaining transportation infrastructure is essential for ensuring that the many visitors to Kameoka City in the future feel that it is a 'city where they can enjoy dining and sightseeing safely even at night.' As a city, we hope that by supporting diverse working styles, including side jobs and part-time work, in addition to full-time employment, as many people as possible will contribute as 'drivers supporting Kameoka at night.'

>> Check Related Pages for This City

Kyoto Taxi is currently recruiting part-time drivers on its special website.

>> Job Details for This Matter

[About Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture]

Aerial view of Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture.

Located in the central part of Kyoto Prefecture, it is a rural city with good access, approximately 20 minutes by rapid train from JR Kyoto Station. It is also known for the mystical 'Tamba mist' that appears from autumn to spring.

Alongside initiatives aiming to become an 'environmentally advanced city,' the high-quality 'Kameoka beef,' nurtured by its rich natural environment, is sometimes called 'phantom Wagyu' and captivates many gourmets as the 'kitchen of Kyoto.' The city will celebrate its 70th anniversary in Reiwa 7 (2025), and from September 18, 2026, it will host the '43rd National Urban Greening Fair in Kyoto Tamba,' one of Japan's largest green events, making it an area of increasing attention with major projects underway.

- Official City Website: https://www.city.kameoka.kyoto.jp/

- Official City Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kameokacity/

[Contact Information]

Inquiries regarding this subsidy system and city initiatives

Kameoka City Hall, Department of Community Development, Katsuragawa and Road Traffic Division

Contact Persons: Kobayashi, Fushiki

TEL: 0771-25-5070 E-mail: [email protected]

HP: https://www.city.kameoka.lg.jp/soshiki/34/87025.html

Inquiries regarding job postings and recruitment

Kyoto Taxi Co., Ltd., Recruitment Section

TEL: 0771-24-8500

HP: https://www.kyoto-taxi.com/kyototaxi2/kyujin_d.htm?L=BMSDetail&ID=AE0402011159