Here are some essential phrases you can use when taking a taxi in Japan:

・" Please take me to _____".
・_____ までお願いします。(____＿made onegai shimasu.)

In this phrase just fill in the blank with your desired destination.

・東京駅までお願いします。(Tokyo-eki made onegai shimasu.)
・“Please take me to Tokyo Station.”

If you have a map or business card to specify a location, you can use a simpler phrase. Tell the driver the following:

・ここまでお願いします。(koko made onegai shimasu.)
・“Please take me here.”

Those were the basic phrases to use when getting on and directing your taxi driver. Now let’s focus on what to say upon arrival.

・ここで下ろしてください。(koko de oroshite kudasai.)
・“Please let me off here.”

・ここでいいです。(koko de ii desu.)
・“Right here is fine.”

When you need to give more specific instructions, the following phrases will help direct your driver:

・右お願いします。(migi onegai shimasu.)
・“Turn right, please.”

・左お願いします。(hidari onegai shimasu.)
・“Turn left, please”

・まっすぐお願いします。(massugu onegai shimasu.)
・“Go straight, please.”

Once you get to your destination, the taxi driver will tell you how much your fare is. Most taxis do accept payment with credit cards, but cash is usually preferred.

Here are some phrases to use when paying:

・いくらですか? (ikura desuka?)
・“How much is it?”

・カードで払えますか? (kaado de haraemasuka?)
・“Can I pay using my credit card?”

・領収書をください。(ryoushuusho wo kudasai.)
・“May I have the receipt, please?”

・お釣りをください。(otsuri wo kudasai.)
・“May I have the change, please?” (In case it slips the driver's mind)

With these phrases you’ll be able to ride a taxi in Japan when you need to without trouble. Some Japanese taxis offer English guides as well, so it’d be good to keep an eye out for taxis with that feature.