Trains, buses, rental cars and shared bikes

Lock the bike, complete the return in the app, then double-check your trip status

At an eligible port, close the rear lock, then press RETURN or ENTER. The square lock shows the return indication; the round lock shows a blue ring after the return operation.

Check the app ride history for return port and rental duration, or look for the return confirmation alert. A lock notification alone does not mean the return is complete.

• DOCOMO: return instructions
• DOCOMO: temporary parking

A return-space reservation is not a completed return

During an unlocked rental, an available return space can be reserved for 30 minutes. This does not make the rental or its return complete. Reservation is optional: an available eligible port can also accept a return without one.

A port already filled by bicycles or return reservations cannot accept another reservation. Check current availability in the app.

• DOCOMO: return-port reservation

Full or unavailable port

If the port is full, closed, or removed, check the operator's app for another nearby return station. If you cannot safely move the bike, contact operator support directly.

Do not treat a map pin or available pavement as confirmation of an accepted return.

• DOCOMO: full or unavailable port
• DOCOMO: contact details and coverage by area

At the port, but the bicycle is not recognized

Confirm that the port accommodates your bicycle and service area, and that it is not closed, suspended, removed, or outside operating hours. A shared brand logo does not ensure compatibility.

Only after confirming an eligible port, move within its reception area and wait about one minute for port recognition. Blinking blue on a round lock or blinking green on a square lock indicates port recognition, not return completion. Then perform the return operation again.

Contact support if this does not resolve the error or waiting caused extra charges. A review does not guarantee a refund or a specific charge adjustment.

• DOCOMO: docking station recognition error
• DOCOMO: return instructions
• DOCOMO: contact details and coverage by area

The display and app disagree

If the bike still shows as in use after you lock it and press ENTER, check your rental status and contact customer support. Do not ignore this just because you saw a return message earlier.

• DOCOMO bike share: bike shows returned, but rental is still running

Automatic return is not a simple countdown

Automatic return depends on detecting a locked bicycle inside a port. Timing varies by area and communication conditions; it is not a fixed waiting period that proves your return completed.

• DOCOMO: auto-return timing

Temporary parking and borrowing again

During temporary parking, usage charges continue. Parking near a port can trigger automatic return. After a confirmed automatic return, start a new rental to use the bicycle again; do not assume the previous rental is still active.

• DOCOMO: temporary parking
• DOCOMO: renting again after automatic return

Battery drainage can prevent bike returns

The bike battery also powers the smart lock and return notifications. If it runs out completely, you may not be able to complete your return or unlock the bike again after parking. Always contact operator support rather than assuming only pedal assist is lost.

• DOCOMO: battery and pre-ride checks

Use the contact for the correct area

The published phone route restricts 19:00 to the following 06:59 Japan time to emergencies such as accidents or breakdowns. Nagoya, Kobe and Kanazawa have separate contact guidance. Kagoshima lists the main DOCOMO BIKE SHARE number, 0570-783-677 (paid Navi Dial). Open the current official contact page for your area. Checked on 27 October 2026 (DOCOMO phone contact details only). Check again by 27 November 2026 and before calling.

• DOCOMO: contact details and coverage by area

Use HELLO CYCLING completion cues, not another operator's

At the dock, close the rear lock and press RETURN on it, or end the ride in the app. You'll know it's complete when you hear two beeps, see a green LED, and get an in-app confirmation notification.

Verify that your notification corresponds to your current rental session. A green return light from another operator or an earlier receipt does not confirm that this session has ended.

• HELLO CYCLING: standard bicycle return

A reminder isn’t the same as returning the car

After a locked bicycle has been at a station for 15 minutes or more, a push reminder can flag a forgotten return. This is not a return-completion notification and is not a promise of automatic return after 15 minutes.

• HELLO CYCLING: standard bicycle return

Keep the two reservations separate

A return-dock reservation is held for 30 minutes before expiring automatically. It guarantees a drop-off slot, not a completed bike return.

The 10-minute departure reservation window is separate from the 30-minute return reservation window. Keep their deadlines straight.

• HELLO CYCLING: return-rack reservation
• HELLO CYCLING: rental reservation and usage charges

Check your journey and fare breakdown separately

Billing begins the moment you unlock the bicycle, and official charges continue until return processing is fully finalized. This guide cannot verify ride completion, your final balance, or refund status. Please review the operator's official rental record for this ride.

• HELLO CYCLING: rental reservation and usage charges

If standard troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue

This guide does not cover detailed support hours or troubleshooting steps. Check the operator’s official Help/Contact page or current app. Avoid relying on DOCOMO-specific steps or past maintenance exceptions.

• HELLO CYCLING: standard bicycle return