Tokyo Taxis. For short hops around the centre of Tokyo, taxis are often the best option, though heavy traffic can slow them down. The basic rate is ¥660 for the first 2km, after which the meter racks up ¥80 every 274m, plus a time charge when the taxi is moving at less than 10km per hour. Between 11pm and 5am, rates are about twenty percent higher.
You can flag down a taxi on most roads - a red light next to the driver means the cab is free; green means occupied - and there are designated stands in the busiest parts of town. When the taxi stops, the driver will press an automatic door-opening button. Try to have your destination written down (preferably in Japanese), and don't be surprised if the driver draws a blank, locating addresses in Tokyo is a skill that even cabbies are not always expert in, and a stop at a koban (local police box) may be necessary to locate your destination. No tip need be paid on leaving the taxi. After the trains stop at night, be prepared for long queues at taxi stands, especially in areas such as Roppongi and Shinjuku.