Driving in Japan

  • Keep to the left.

    The most different part of driving in Japan and other countries is “keep to the left” and “right hand driving.”
    Keep to the left.
  • Red signal means STOP.

    All traffic must stop at the red signal.
    “A GREEN ARROW” signal means Green Light for the indicated direction.
    Red signal means STOP.
  • Illegal parking is strictly prohibited.

    If you park illegally, you must follow the proper procedure and pay the fines.
    Illegal parking is strictly prohibited.
  • You must STOP before crossing all railroads.

    You must make a temporary stop before crossing the railroad crossing.
    You must STOP before crossing all railroads.
  • Child seats are required for children under 6 years old.

    Neglecting to use a child seat is against the law.
    Child seats are required for children under 6 years old.
  • All passengers must fasten their seat belt.

    Not only the driver, but also all of the passengers must fasten their seat belts.
    All passengers must fasten their seat belt.
  • Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.

    Do not drive a car if you had consumed any alcohol.
    Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.
  • Cell phone use while driving is prohibited.

    Do not drive a car while using a cell phone.
    Cell phone use while driving is prohibited.
  • Bicycles share the road with cars.

    Drivers should pay extra attention to cyclists while driving. Not only giving extra room, but the driver should always look out for cyclists, even if you do not see someone on a bicycle.
    Bicycles share the road with cars.
  • You must fuel the car with the correct grade of fuel.

    There are 3 kinds of gasoline in Japan: regular, premium, and diesl. The car will break down if you use the incorrect fuel grade. Be sure to check the gasoline grade before filling up the car.
    You must fuel the car with the correct grade of fuel.
  • Car speed is displayed in kilometers, not miles.

    Car speed is displayed in kilometers, not miles.
  • There are 3 kinds of expressway toll gates.

    Be sure to enter in the correct gate. There are ETC Only gates and general gates.
    There are 3 kinds of expressway toll gates.
  • Stop signs in Japan

    There will be a red triangle sign says “止まれ”, it means you have to make a total stop for few seconds and make sure if it is safe to proceed.
    Stop signs in Japan
  • Avoid using the horn

    Only use the horn if necessary. Please do not use the horn if there is heavy traffic.
    Avoid using the horn
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