Kyoto Uber Eats Guide: Delivering in Japan’s Ancient Capital

Welcome to Kyoto, a city where ancient temples stand beside modern life, and serene gardens hide amongst bustling streets. For foreigners living in Japan, delivering with Uber Eats in this historic capital offers a unique way to earn flexibly, explore hidden corners, and become part of the city’;s daily rhythm. Unlike traditional jobs, you set your own schedule, making it a great alternative or supplement to your current work.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know to get started as an Uber Eats delivery partner in Kyoto, from eligibility and vehicle choice to navigating the city’s unique streets and understanding local customs.

Part 1: Getting Started – Are You Eligible?

Before you can start exploring Kyoto’s culinary landscape, you need to ensure you meet Uber’s requirements. The process is straightforward, but attention to detail is key, especially for foreign nationals.

Basic Requirements (Age & Vehicle)

The minimum age to become an Uber Eats delivery partner in Japan is 18 years old. You can choose to deliver by bicycle, scooter, motorbike, or a light vehicle (kei-car). The requirements for each vary, particularly regarding documentation.

• Bicycle or on foot: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Scooter or Car: Must be at least 19 years old and hold a valid driver’s license.

According to Uber’s official guidelines, you must also not be a civil servant, such as a member of the Self-Defense Forces, as they are typically prohibited from holding side jobs..

Essential Documents for All Couriers

The documents you’ll need to submit depend on your chosen mode of transport. The administrative load increases with the complexity of the vehicle.

Special Requirements for Foreign Nationals

This is the most critical step for non-Japanese citizens. Your ability to work depends entirely on your visa status. Uber Eats Japan is specific about which statuses of residence are eligible.

According to Uber, eligible statuses include: Special Permanent Resident, Permanent Resident, Spouse or Child of a Japanese National, Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident, Long-Term Resident, or a Designated Activity status (like a working holiday visa).. Student visas are generally not accepted for new sign-ups.

You will need to provide your Residence Card (Zairyu Card) and proof of your work authorization. Additionally, Uber states that basic Japanese communication skills are necessary to become a delivery partner.

Part 2: Choosing Your Wheels – Vehicle Options & Rules

Kyoto is a city of varied landscapes, from wide main roads to incredibly narrow alleys. Your choice of vehicle will significantly impact your efficiency and experience.

Bicycle: The Kyoto Favorite

Kyoto is often described as a “human-scale city,” making it exceptionally friendly for cyclists. A bicycle allows you to navigate the narrow alleys (路地, roji) and covered shopping arcades where cars can’t go, giving you a competitive edge. It’s also the most cost-effective option.

Requirements:

• Must be 18+ years old.
• A government-issued ID.
• A profile photo.

Motorbike/Scooter (50cc to 250cc+)

A motorized scooter or motorbike offers more speed and a wider delivery range, which can be advantageous for longer-distance orders or during poor weather. However, it comes with more stringent documentation requirements.

Key Documents:

• Driver’s License
• License Plate Photo
• Certificate of Automobile Third-party Liability Insurance (自賠責保険, jibaiseki hoken)
• For vehicles 125cc-250cc, a Light Motor Vehicle Certificate is also needed.

Kei-Car (Light Vehicle)

Using a kei-car (軽自動車) opens up opportunities for larger orders and provides comfort in any weather. However, it requires converting your personal vehicle for commercial use. This involves getting approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) and obtaining a black commercial license plate..

Prohibited Vehicles: A Note on E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Due to complex legal classifications and safety concerns, Uber Eats Japan does not permit the use of “;Specified small motorized bicycles”; for deliveries. This category includes many popular electric kickboards and certain types of e-bikes. It is crucial to ensure your vehicle is not in this category to avoid account suspension..

Part 3: Navigating Kyoto – A Courier’s Guide

Kyoto’s charm lies in its unique layout, but this can also be a challenge for newcomers. Understanding the city’s structure and traffic rules is essential for efficient and safe deliveries.

Understanding Kyoto’s Unique Layout

Unlike most Japanese cities, which rely on a block-based system, Kyoto has a grid layout and often uses street names in addresses. This can be both a blessing and a curse.

• The Grid System: The city is largely organized in a grid, making general navigation relatively intuitive.
• Addresses: Japanese addresses are written from the largest geographical area to the most specific (prefecture, city, ward, district, block, building). While most of Japan ignores street names, Kyoto is an exception where they are sometimes used, which can be helpful..
• Alleys and Arcades: Kyoto is famous for its narrow alleys (like Pontocho) and covered markets (like Nishiki Market). These are often pedestrian-only or accessible only by bicycle, making them crucial shortcuts and delivery destinations..

Key Traffic Rules in Japan

Whether you’re on two wheels or four, adhering to Japanese traffic law is non-negotiable. The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) outlines several core rules:

• Keep Left: All traffic, including bicycles, must keep to the left side of the road.
• Obey Signals: Stop at red lights and stop signs. The Japanese stop sign is a red, inverted triangle with the word 「止まれ」(Tomare).
• Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians always have the right of way.
• No Distractions: Using a cell phone or being distracted by a navigation system while driving is strictly prohibited.
• Helmets and Seatbelts: Helmets are required for motorbike riders. For car drivers, seatbelts are mandatory for everyone in the vehicle.

For a comprehensive overview, refer to the JAF’s guide to traffic rules.

Bicycle-Specific Rules & Etiquette

Cycling in Kyoto comes with its own set of rules and etiquette that are crucial for safety and harmony.

• No Street Parking: This is a major rule in Kyoto. Parking your bicycle on the street outside of designated areas is illegal. Illegally parked bikes are regularly removed, and you will be charged a fee (around 3,500 JPY) to retrieve it. Always use designated bicycle parking lots..
• Bicycle Registration (防犯登録, Bohan Toroku): By law, all bicycles must be registered with the police. This costs around 500 JPY and is done at the time of purchase.
• Riding on Sidewalks: Generally, you should ride on the road. You may only ride on sidewalks if signs permit it, and you must prioritize pedestrians and ride slowly..
• No umbrellas, phones, or headphones while riding.

Part 4: The Delivery Process & Best Practices

Once you’re approved and ready to go, understanding the workflow and best practices will help you earn more and receive better ratings.

How the Uber Eats App Works

The Uber Driver app is your command center. When you’re ready to work, you go online. The app will then send you delivery requests from nearby restaurants.

1. Accept the Request: You’ll see the restaurant location and can tap to accept.
2. Pick Up the Order: At the restaurant, let the staff know you’re with Uber Eats. Double-check the order name and number in your app to ensure you have the correct package..
3. Navigate to the Customer: The app provides navigation to the customer’s location.
4. Drop-off: Follow the customer’s notes for delivery (e.g., “Leave at door”). If you can’t find them, you can call or message them through the app.

Food Safety and Handling

Properly handling food is crucial for customer satisfaction and safety. While not strictly mandatory in all cases, Uber strongly suggests using an insulated bag to maintain food temperature and quality. For bicycle deliveries, a specialized bag that protects food from movement and weather is highly recommended..

Merchants may have specific instructions, such as keeping halal and non-halal food separate. Always follow these guidelines to respect customer dietary needs and religious practices..

Communication and Etiquette

Politeness is paramount in Japan. A simple “こんにちは” (Konnichiwa) and “ありがとうございます” (Arigatou gozaimasu) can go a long way.

Tipping: Tipping is not a traditional custom in Japan and is generally not expected. However, the Uber Eats app allows customers to add a tip after the delivery, which is one of the few exceptions to this rule in Japan. You keep 100% of any tips you receive..

Part 5: Earnings, Safety, and Support

Understanding your earnings and the safety measures in place can give you peace of mind while you’re on the road.

How You Get Paid

Your earnings are calculated based on pickups, drop-offs, and distance, with fares varying by city. You can also earn more through promotions like Boost and Surge pricing during peak hours. All your earnings, including tips, are tracked in the app and can be cashed out.

Staying Safe on the Road

Your safety is a priority. Uber provides several in-app safety features, including an emergency assistance button.

Insurance: In Japan, Uber provides a Partner Support Program through a partnership with Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance. This covers accidental personal injury during a delivery, in addition to the mandatory third-party liability insurance you must have for motorized vehicles..

Emergency Contacts: In case of a fire or medical emergency, dial 119. Kyoto City offers a simultaneous telephone interpretation service in English and other languages for emergency calls. For police, dial 110..

Ready to Ride? Your Next Steps

Delivering with Uber Eats in Kyoto is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to experience the city in a way few others can. You’ll discover quiet temples, lively markets, and the authentic taste of Kyoto, all while earning on your own terms.

You have the flexibility to work when you want, the freedom to be your own boss, and the support of a global platform. If you’ve met the requirements and are excited to start your journey through the streets of Japan’s ancient capital, the next step is simple.