How are gas stations in Japan?

In the 1990s, visiting a gas station in Japan was a unique experience. Teams of uniformed attendants — men and women — welcomed drivers with great cordiality. In addition to fueling the vehicle, they cleaned the windshields, collected trash, and performed these tasks with friendliness and efficiency. This was the norm, and the impeccable service was part of the Japanese culture of hospitality.

Today, however, this reality has changed. Most gas stations in Japan have become self-service and operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The change reflects technological advancement, shifts in consumer behavior, and the growing transition to electric and hybrid vehicles.

Decline of gas stations in Japan

In 1994, Japan had approximately 60,421 gas stations spread across the country. However, this number has drastically fallen, and today there are about 35,000 stations in operation. This reduction of nearly 50% is attributed to several factors:

• Increase in the use of electric and hybrid vehicles: There are already more charging stations for these vehicles than gas stations in Japan.
• Efficiency of public transportation: The country’s railway system is highly efficient, and many opt for trains and subways instead of private cars.
• Technological changes: The popularization of self-service stations, which require fewer employees and less space, has contributed to the closure of traditional stations.

Experience at Japanese self-service stations

Self-service stations are indicated by the word セルフ (serufu) on signs at the entrance. At these locations, drivers are guided by modern machines that explain, step by step, how to refuel.

Despite the automation, there is always an assistant on site to help in case of doubt. Payment can be made in several ways:

• Cash (現金で – Genkin de).
• Credit card (クレジットカードで – Kurejito Kaado de).
• Store-specific cards that offer benefits such as discounts.

Types of fuel available

Japanese gas stations offer three main types of fuel:

1. Regular gasoline (レギュラー – Regyurā): Most popular fuel.
2. Premium gasoline (ハイオク – Haioku): Known as 4-star gasoline, it has a higher octane rating.
3. Diesel (軽油 – Keiyu): Used in diesel vehicles and buses.

Technology and convenience

Even at self-service stations, the experience is efficient and safe. Many have systems that recognize the correct type of fuel for the vehicle, avoiding mistakes. Additionally, the environment is clean, organized, and has additional services such as automatic car washes and ATMs for payments.

Gas prices in Japan

Fuel prices in Japan vary, but they are generally more affordable than in many Western countries due to logistical efficiency and market competition. Currently, prices are around:

• Regular gasoline: 140-170 yen;
• Premium gasoline (ハイオク): 160-190 yen;
• Diesel: 120-130 yen;

These fluctuations reflect both the global market and internal policies on subsidies and incentives for adopting more sustainable technologies.

Essential vocabulary for gas stations in Japan

If you plan to drive in Japan, here are some useful expressions that can facilitate your experience at a gas station:

• ガソリンスタンド (Gasorinsutando): Gas station
• 満タン (Mantan): Fill the tank
• 現金で (Genkin de): Pay with cash
• クレジットカードで (Kurejito Kaado de): Pay with credit card
• 灰皿 (Haizara): Ashtray
• ガソリン / レギュラー (Gasorin / Regyurā): Regular gasoline
• ハイオク (Haioku): Premium gasoline
• 軽油 (Keiyu): Diesel

Future of gas stations in Japan

With the continuous advancement of electric and hybrid vehicles, traditional gas stations are expected to continue decreasing in number. Fast charging stations are becoming a common sight, with large networks like ENEOS already investing in infrastructure to meet this new demand.

On the other hand, the transition is gradual. Many Japanese still rely on gasoline-powered cars, especially in rural areas where public transportation is less accessible.