Japan Taxi

When getting in a Taxi in Japan, you are immediately charged a fare called Hatsunori [初乗り]. The Hatsunori lasts you two kilometers before you start to pay for each kilometer.

The Hatsunori fare remained unchanged for ten years and used to be 660 yen - recently went up to 710 yen to the delight of citizens in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Hachiouji etc (source.)

For those who are going to be out late, expect to pay triple the taxi fare between the hours of 10PM and 5AM (used to be from 11PM to 5AM.)

The most expensive taxis I took were in the UK. I remember paying more than twenty quid for a ride from Heathrow terminal 3 to 4.

The worst Taxis I experienced were in Penang Malaysia where I had to ask how much it cost to get to a destination *before* I got on. The reason is that Taxi drivers may suddenly come out with "100 Ringgit please" when you reach your destination - best to be clear how much it will cost to avoid trouble. That was a while ago and not sure what its like now.

The cheapest taxis I've taken were the ones in Shanghai. All taxis run on the meter and are dead cheap.
What is the quality of service and rates like in your region?

BTW, the photos in this post are available for you in the wallpaper pool.