The Rise of Female Rickshaw Pullers in Asakusa

Kaminarimon, Asakusa Engei Hall, Hanayashiki — Tokyo's famous Asakusa landmarks pass by like a moving panorama when viewed from the comfort of a rickshaw. In the lingering September heat, the cool breeze offers a welcome reprieve. After a pleasant 40-minute ride, the rickshaw stops near Sensoji Temple. "Thank you for riding with me!" the guide calls out, her chestnut ponytail swaying as she lowers the rickshaw's shaft.

More women are stepping into the traditionally male-dominated and physically demanding role of Asakusa rickshaw pullers. Among them is 20-year-old Riho Arai, who debuted in 2023. "I wanted a job where I could use my English skills," she shares, with beads of sweat on her forehead. "People's gratitude, like when they say, 'I'm so glad you were our guide' is what keeps me motivated."

A New Generation of Pullers

With the pandemic behind us, rickshaws are once again driving Asakusa's tourism industry as inbound travelers return. Tokyo Rickshaw employs around 130 pullers. The number of its female rickshaw pullers has grown significantly, from just four in 2020 to nearly 30 today, including trainees.

This surge is partly fueled by social media, which has helped spread the message that women can also excel in this role. It also caters to individuals like Arai, who are eager to work with inbound tourists.

Pulling a rickshaw is physically demanding, with the rickshaw itself weighing about 90 kilograms (198 lbs). With passengers, the total weight can sometimes exceed 200 kilograms. 

Employers appreciate the meticulous and thoughtful customer service that many of their female pullers provide. While they may not always match the physical strength or speed of their male counterparts, their attention to detail is a clear advantage.

"Some customers say that female pullers are easier to talk to," shares Misato Otoshi, the company's 31-year-old PR manager.

Foodie Pullers Offer Culinary Guidance

Many female pullers are also avid foodies, which makes them even more popular. Their knowledge of new sweets shops and local eateries adds a special touch to the experience. In fact, some inbound tourists visit Asakusa specifically to meet their favorite female pullers.

Moka Shimada, a 20-year-old currently in training, shares, "I wanted to take on a new challenge, something I can only do at this stage in my life."

The length of the training period varies by person, typically lasting anywhere from two months to a year.

"Right now, I'm focusing on keeping the ride smooth, even over bumpy spots like manholes." Once their training is complete, rickshaw pullers are considered fully qualified.

"My goal is to ensure passengers' safety while also making their experience enjoyable through engaging conversations," she says enthusiastically.

Today, female rickshaw pullers continue to race through Asakusa with energy and style, adding a graceful and lively touch to one of Japan's most iconic tourist destinations.

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(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Ko Notomi, The Sankei Shimbun