For foreign nationals living in Japan, traffic accidents and traffic violations are among the common problems they may encounter.

It is important to understand Japan’s traffic rules not only when driving a car, but also when riding a motorcycle or bicycle.

Knowing the basic traffic rules can help protect you and your family and prevent accidents and other problems.

1. Basic Traffic Rules in Japan

No Unlicensed Driving or Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

In Japan, unlicensed driving and driving under the influence of alcohol are subject to severe penalties.

Never drive a car or other vehicle without a valid driver’s license, and never drive after drinking alcohol.

Keep to the Left

In Japan, cars and motorcycles generally drive on the left side of the road.

Pedestrians generally walk on the right side of roads where there is no sidewalk. Where a sidewalk is available, pedestrians should use it.

Bicycles do not require a driver’s license, but they are legally treated as vehicles under the Road Traffic Act and generally must be ridden on the left side of the road.

Stop at “STOP” Signs

When you see a “STOP” sign, you must come to a complete stop and check for traffic from both directions before proceeding.

These signs may be placed at intersections where visibility is limited.

Coming to a complete stop is very important for preventing accidents at intersections.

Obey Traffic Signals

Traffic signals for vehicles in Japan use three colors: green, yellow, and red.

Green: You may proceed.

Yellow: You must generally stop, unless it is unsafe to stop.

Red: You must not proceed.

Pedestrian signals also use green and red. A flashing green signal indicates that the signal will soon change to red.

Ignoring traffic signals can lead to serious accidents, so always check the signals carefully before proceeding.

Wear Seat Belts

Seat belts are required not only for the driver and front passenger but also for passengers in the rear seats.

Whenever you ride in a car, make sure that everyone wears a seat belt.

Do Not Use a Mobile Phone While Driving

It is prohibited to hold a mobile phone and make a call, send messages, or operate the screen while driving.

Even a brief moment of distraction can result in a serious accident.

Observe Speed Limits

Each road has a maximum speed limit.

Because speed limits vary depending on the road, check traffic signs and other information while driving.

Speed limits can differ depending on the location, including on ordinary roads and expressways.

Give Priority to Pedestrians at Crosswalks

At crosswalks without traffic signals, pedestrians have priority.

If a pedestrian is crossing or is about to cross, you must stop before the crosswalk and avoid obstructing the pedestrian.

When approaching a crosswalk, carefully check whether there are any pedestrians.

Use Turn Signals Early

Use your turn signal when turning left or right or changing lanes.

When turning, you should generally signal before reaching the intersection. When changing lanes, you should generally signal about three seconds before changing lanes.

Giving an early signal allows surrounding drivers to anticipate your movements and helps prevent accidents.

Keep a Safe Following Distance

Keep a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front of you and avoid following too closely.

For example, when traveling at 40 km/h, a vehicle travels approximately 11 meters in one second.

If the vehicle in front suddenly stops, you may not have enough time to brake if you are following too closely.

Pay Attention to One-Way and No-Turn Signs

Some roads in Japan are designated as one-way roads, and some intersections prohibit right or left turns.

These traffic restrictions are indicated by road signs and other traffic information.

When driving, pay attention not only to the road ahead but also to traffic signs.

2. Penalties for Traffic Violations

Under Japan’s traffic laws, traffic violations may result in administrative measures such as fines and penalty points.

The applicable fine and number of penalty points depend on the type of violation.

For example:

• Failure to stop at a designated location: ¥7,000
• Ignoring a traffic signal: ¥9,000
• Failure to wear a seat belt: 1 penalty point
• Ignoring a traffic signal: 2 penalty points

For relatively minor traffic violations, a Traffic Violation Notice, commonly known as a “blue ticket,” may be issued, allowing the driver to pay a fixed penalty under the traffic infraction payment system.

If the number of penalty points reaches a certain level, the driver may be subject to administrative measures such as suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.

Traffic violations are not simply a matter of paying a fine. They can also lead to serious accidents.

In particular, unlicensed driving and driving under the influence of alcohol are subject to severe penalties.

Foreign nationals are also required to follow Japan’s traffic rules.

Not knowing the traffic rules in Japan does not excuse a violation.

If you live in Japan, make sure you understand the basic traffic rules.

3. What to Do in the Event of a Traffic Accident

A traffic accident can happen even when you are being very careful.

If an accident occurs, it is important to remain calm and take the necessary steps.

Help Injured Persons

The first priority is to help anyone who has been injured.

After ensuring your own safety, provide first aid to the extent possible and call an ambulance if necessary.

If you leave the scene of an accident without providing necessary assistance to an injured person, you may face serious consequences and severe penalties.

Prevent a Secondary Accident

At an accident scene, it is important to prevent a secondary accident involving vehicles approaching from behind.

If possible, use warning equipment such as a warning triangle to alert approaching vehicles that an accident has occurred.

If gasoline, oil, or another flammable substance has leaked, there may be a risk of fire.

Avoid smoking or using any source of ignition at the accident scene.

Ensure Your Own Safety

When an accident occurs, drivers may panic.

Trying to make a phone call on the road can create a risk of a secondary accident, such as being hit by a vehicle approaching from behind.

After taking the necessary initial steps, move to a safe location whenever possible.

Call the Police at 110

If a traffic accident occurs, call the police at 110.

If anyone is injured, be sure to tell the police.

It can be difficult to remain calm immediately after a traffic accident, but it is important to remember these three basic steps:

1. Help injured persons
2. Prevent a secondary accident
3. Call the police at 110

4. Bicycle Rules in Japan

Traffic accidents and traffic violations involving bicycles are also a concern in Japan, and rules and regulations concerning bicycle use have been strengthened.

Bicycles are a convenient means of transportation for commuting, going to school, shopping, and other daily activities. However, just like motor vehicles, bicycles must be used in accordance with traffic rules.

Foreign nationals may also be subject to penalties or other measures if they violate Japan’s bicycle traffic rules.

If you ride a bicycle in Japan, it is important to understand the basic traffic rules and use your bicycle safely.

Traffic rules and road conditions in Japan may also be different from those in your home country.

If you are a foreign national who has recently started living in Japan, it is a good idea to learn Japan’s traffic rules not only for yourself but also for your family, especially your children.

If you are unsure what to do after a traffic accident or traffic violation in Japan, you may wish to seek professional advice early.

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