Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing issue of illegal "black car" operations in Japan, particularly involving Chinese drivers, highlighting the risks associated with using unlicensed vehicles for transportation and the regulatory challenges faced by authorities [1][3][11]. Group 1: Illegal Operations - A 26-year-old Chinese man was arrested in Japan for operating an illegal taxi service that resulted in a fatal accident, despite claiming he did not charge passengers [1] - The use of "white plate" vehicles, which are private cars, has become common among Chinese tourists due to lower costs compared to licensed "green plate" vehicles, but this practice poses significant risks, including lack of passenger insurance [3][4] - Japanese authorities have been cracking down on illegal taxi operations, with numerous arrests made in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto [3][4] Group 2: Financial Aspects - A couple operating a black car business reportedly generated 31 million yen in revenue over a year, averaging over 80,000 yen daily, with drivers earning between 18,000 to 20,000 yen per day [7] - Many drivers have shifted to renting "green plates" to circumvent regulations, allowing them to operate under a seemingly legal framework while maintaining the same practices as before [8] Group 3: Broader Implications - The phenomenon of illegal taxi services is not limited to Japan; it is a widespread issue in various countries with significant Chinese tourist populations, including South Korea and European nations [11][14] - The competitive pressure from online travel platforms has led legitimate taxi services to resort to using black car drivers to survive financially, creating a challenging environment for regulatory enforcement [16][17]