Japan is one of the best countries in the world for a road trip. With well-maintained highways, breathtaking scenery, and courteous drivers, it’s a rewarding way to explore beyond the train routes. That said, driving in Japan comes with a unique set of rules and cultural differences that every visitor should know before getting behind the wheel.
Basic Facts About Driving in Japan
- Drive on the left: As in some other countries, including England, Singapore, and Hong Kong, cars in Japan drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right side of the vehicle. Even the turn signal and windshield wiper levers may be opposite to what you’re used to, so take extra care at first. These differences may be confusing at first, but you’ll get used to them quickly!
- Age requirements: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 18, though some may set the minimum at 20 or older. Even if you’re able to drive in your home country at a younger age, you will not be able to drive in Japan until you’re at least 18.
- Kilometers, not miles: Road signs and speed limits are displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h) (100 km=62 miles).
- Excellent roads and manners: Highways and local roads are generally in superb condition, making for smooth driving. Japanese drivers are also known for their politeness and adherence to rules, which makes driving less stressful for visitors.
- Turning at Red Lights: Unlike in some countries, such as the USA, Canada, Taiwan, Australia, and South Korea, it is illegal to turn after stopping at a red light. Please wait for the light to turn green.
Must-Know Driving Rules
No drunk driving – AT ALL
Japan enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Even one sip of alcohol can result in heavy fines or arrest. This punishment may also apply to anyone else in the car, as well as the establishment that served you alcohol.
Stay off your phone
Using a smartphone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you have a true hands-free system. Penalties are steep if you’re caught.
Stop means stop
At stop signs (marked with a red triangle), you must come to a complete stop—rolling through is not allowed. Even in rural areas with very few cars, be sure to follow this law.
No crossing yellow lines
A solid yellow line indicates no passing. Respect these rules; enforcement is strict. Dashed yellow lines indicate you are allowed to pass/cross lanes.
Turning left
Remember that left turns must yield to pedestrians and bicycles, even if the light is green. Pay special attention at intersections. If you are turning right, be cautious and courteous – cars turning left have the right-of-way.
What To Do If You Have an Accident
While driving in Japan is generally safe, accidents do happen. And if they do, the process can be stressful—especially since English is not widely spoken during such procedures. Here’s what you need to know:
Accidents are taken very seriously: Expect a long and formal process if you’re involved in one. Communicating may be difficult if the other party doesn’t speak English.
The rental company will find out: Japanese license plates indicate rental cars, so even in the case of a minor single-car accident, your rental company will know. Never attempt to hide it.
What to do step by step:
It is likely you won’t be able to use English to speak with the operator. If there is a Japanese person nearby, tell them this – or, save this message in your phone so you can quickly show it to them on your screen in the case of emergency:「私は日本語が話せません。申し訳ありませんが警察や消防に電話をして頂けませんか？」(I don’t speak Japanese. I’m sorry, but can you please call the police/fire department?)
Final Tips
Many accidents and violations are often caused by fatigue from long-distance driving and time pressure. One of the major causes of fatigue and impatience is a sloppy, haphazard, or reckless road trip plan. All of the itineraries introduced on Drive Japan have been driven by experts. No matter which route you choose, you can travel safely while visiting various spots. All you need to do is understand and respect the traffic rules.
Driving in Japan is one of the most enjoyable ways to see the country’s mountains, coastlines, and countryside towns that trains often bypass. As long as you respect the rules, stay alert, and drive cautiously, the experience will be smooth and memorable.