The autonomous driving company said it will work with Nihon Kotsu and GO to introduce a Level 4 robotaxi service in Tokyo, subject to regulatory approval and the completion of ongoing safety validation.
GO will oversee integration with Japan’s taxi industry, while Nihon Kotsu will handle fleet operations.
Earlier this year, Waymo announced plans to launch a robotaxi service in Munich in late 2027, while continuing to grow across the United States, where it now provides fully autonomous rides in 14 cities.
Tokyo’s narrow streets, dense traffic, left-hand driving, and complex urban layout require extensive localization of the Waymo Driver, the company’s autonomous driving system.
Waymo says it has been working closely with local officials and community organizations while training Nihon Kotsu personnel on autonomous fleet operations.