The smart skill of deciphering the colorful illuminated status signs (red 'Vacant', green 'Occupied', etc.) behind the front passenger windshield, helping you flag down taxis from afar instantly.
💡 Cultural Background
Designed to allow potential riders to instantly judge if a passing car can be hailed, even in heavy rain or deep night. Japan utilizes colorful, glowing kanji characters behind the windshield.
💬 Useful Conversation Phrases
・RED sign glowing **【空車 (Kūsha - Vacant)】** means the taxi is empty and ready. Raise your hand to hail it! ・GREEN sign **【賃走 (Chinsō - Hired)】** or **【予約 (Yoyaku - Reserved)】** means the cab is busy and will not stop.
🔊 If you spot a taxi with the red 'Kūsha' (Vacant) light on, let's raise our hands to signal it. / The green sign indicates 'Chinsō' (Hired), so that taxi won't stop for us.
❓ Bilingual Transit Quiz
What do the red windshield sign 'Kūsha' and green sign 'Chinsō' mean?