Japan's first ride-hailing services launched in Tokyo

Japan launched its first ride-hailing services on Monday amid a growing taxi shortage, with Tokyo taking the lead. Nine vehicles headed out after a kick-off ceremony.

An industry group said that the drivers are in their 20s to 50s, including self-employed people and a homemaker. The government lifted a ban on ride-hailing services on condition that taxi companies supervise the drivers. The fees are the same as taxi fares.

The services are limited to areas where taxis are in short supply and during certain days and hours. Operations are also set to start in parts of Kyoto, Aichi and Kanagawa prefectures later this month.