Translation guide
A rickshaw is a light, two-wheeled passenger cart pulled by a person. In Japanese, the most common term is 人力車 (jinrikisha), but other terms exist depending on context or region.
The standard word for a rickshaw, used in most contexts.
The standard Japanese word for rickshaw. Literally 'human-powered vehicle'. Used in modern contexts, especially for tourist rickshaws.
浅草で人力車に乗りました。
I rode a rickshaw in Asakusa.
A single kanji for rickshaw, often used in traditional or literary contexts. Can also refer to the vehicle itself or the rickshaw puller's profession.
俥を引く
to pull a rickshaw
Referring to the person who pulls the rickshaw.
A term for a rickshaw puller, often used historically. Can sound old-fashioned.
車夫が客を待っている。
The rickshaw puller is waiting for a customer.
A more specific term for a rickshaw puller, combining 人力車 and 夫 (worker).
A rickshaw pulled by a bicycle or tricycle, common in some Asian countries.
Literally 'bicycle taxi'. Used for cycle rickshaws or pedicabs, especially in tourist areas.
ベトナムでは自転車タクシーが人気です。
Cycle rickshaws are popular in Vietnam.
Abbreviation of 輪タクシー (wheel taxi). A colloquial term for cycle rickshaw, often used in Southeast Asian contexts.
A motorized three-wheeled rickshaw, common in South and Southeast Asia.
Loanword from English 'auto rickshaw'. Widely understood for motorized three-wheelers.
インドではオートリキシャが便利です。
Auto rickshaws are convenient in India.
Specifically refers to the Thai tuk-tuk, but often used generically for similar vehicles in Southeast Asia.
バンコクでトゥクトゥクに乗った。
I rode a tuk-tuk in Bangkok.
人力車 is the safest term for a traditional person-pulled rickshaw, especially in Japan. For motorized versions, use オートリキシャ or the local term like トゥクトゥク.
彼は人力車夫として働いている。
He works as a rickshaw puller.
I went to the market by cycle rickshaw.