Many travelers drive cars in Japan using our JAF drive license translation certificate. 

 

Driving in Japan: Common Mistakes, How to Avoid Them, and What to Do in Case of an Accident

In Japan, traffic accident statistics vary by region, with certain areas experiencing higher rates of incidents. According to data from 2023, Osaka Prefecture recorded the highest number of traffic fatalities for the second consecutive year, totaling 148 deaths. Following Osaka, Aichi Prefecture reported 145 fatalities, and Tokyo had 136. On the other end of the spectrum, Saga Prefecture had the lowest number of fatalities, with 13 reported cases. The national average stood at 2.14 fatalities per 100,000 people, with Tokushima having the highest average at 3.98, followed by Mie at 3.79 and Aomori at 3.74. Tokyo had the lowest average at 0.97. 

 

Common Mistakes by Foreign Drivers in Japan

Driving in Japan can be a challenge for foreign drivers unfamiliar with the country's road rules, signage, and driving culture. Below are some of the most common mistakes and detailed practical tips to avoid them.

 

1. Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

Mistake: Japan drives on the left, but foreign drivers from right-hand driving countries often instinctively drift to the right, particularly after making turns or exiting parking lots.

 

How to Avoid:

- Visual Reminders: Place a small sticker on your dashboard or steering wheel as a reminder: “Drive on the left.”

- Follow Local Vehicles: If unsure, follow other vehicles to reinforce the habit.

- Extra Caution at Turns and Exits: Be especially careful when turning at intersections or exiting parking lots, where mistakes are most likely to occur.

- Use Lane Assist Technology: If your rental car has lane departure warnings, keep them activated for additional safety.

 

2. Misreading Road Signs

Mistake: Japanese road signs differ from those in many Western countries, and some are only in Japanese, leading to misinterpretation.

 

How to Avoid:

- Learn Key Road Signs: Familiarize yourself with common Japanese traffic signs before driving. Pay attention to:

  - Stop signs (red triangle with "止まれ").

  - No entry signs (red circle with a white horizontal bar).

  - Speed limit signs (white circles with red borders).

- Use GPS Apps with Local Traffic Data: Google Maps and NAVITIME provide accurate navigation and include Japanese road rules.

- Carry a Translation Guide: Have a basic translation chart for essential road signs in case of confusion.

 

3. Confusion at Intersections

Mistake: Some intersections have unique rules, such as delayed signals, diagonal pedestrian crossings, and priority lanes that may not be common in other countries.

 

How to Avoid:

- Drive Slowly in Urban Areas: Expect unusual intersections, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

- Watch Traffic Signals Carefully: Some traffic lights may stay red longer than expected, and delayed green lights can be confusing.

- Be Cautious at Zebra Crossings: Pedestrians may cross diagonally at designated intersections.

 

4. Underestimating Narrow Roads

Mistake: Many rural and residential roads are extremely narrow, leading to scrapes, collisions, or difficulty navigating tight corners.

 

How to Avoid:

- Rent a Compact Car: Choose a kei car (small vehicle) for better maneuverability on narrow roads.

- Use Side Mirrors Extensively: Check side mirrors frequently when passing through tight spaces.

- Slow Down in Residential Areas: Many roads lack sidewalks, so be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and parked cars.

- Use Parking Assist Features: If your rental car has parking sensors or a 360-degree camera, utilize them to prevent accidental scrapes.

 

5. Ignoring Stop Signs ("止まれ")

Mistake: Japan’s stop signs are red triangles instead of the familiar red octagons used in Western countries, making them easy to overlook.

 

How to Avoid:

- Recognize the "止まれ" Symbol: It means “STOP” and requires a full stop, not a rolling stop.

- Approach Intersections with Caution: Even if no other cars are visible, always come to a full stop at red triangle signs.

 

6. Speeding in Rural Areas

Mistake: Japan has lower speed limits than many countries, and police enforce them strictly, especially on expressways and near schools.

 

How to Avoid:

- Know the Limits:

  - City streets: 40-50 km/h

  - Rural roads: 50-60 km/h

  - Expressways: 80-120 km/h

- Beware of Speed Cameras: Speed traps are common, and some roads have unmarked patrol cars monitoring speed.

- Check for Variable Speed Limits: Some highways adjust speed limits based on weather conditions.

 

7. Failing to Yield to Pedestrians and Cyclists

Mistake: Japan has strict pedestrian and cyclist safety laws, and failing to yield can result in heavy penalties.

 

How to Avoid:

- Stop Completely at Crosswalks: Even if a pedestrian hesitates, drivers must stop and allow them to cross.

- Watch for Cyclists at Intersections: Many cyclists ride on sidewalks and suddenly enter crosswalks.

- Pay Attention to School Zones: Drive cautiously near schools, where children may cross without looking.

 

8. Toll Road Confusion

Mistake: Many expressways require an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card or manual payment, causing delays for unprepared drivers.

 

How to Avoid:

- Rent a Car with an ETC Card: It allows automatic toll payments and is widely accepted.

- Have Cash or Credit Ready: Some toll booths accept cash or credit cards, but ETC lanes do not.

- Use Toll Route Navigation Apps: Google Maps and NAVITIME can indicate toll routes and costs in advance.

 

9. Parking Violations

Mistake: Illegal parking is strictly enforced in major cities, with fines and towing for violators. You see traffic warden in green uniforms in many parts of cities in Japan.

 

How to Avoid:

- Use Designated Parking Lots:

  - Coin parking (hourly paid parking lots)

  - Convenience store parking (only if you are a customer)

  - Public parking garages

- Check for "No Parking" Signs: Marked by a blue circle with a red slash.

- Avoid Street Parking in Big Cities: Street parking is rare and usually requires a permit.

- Use Parking Apps: Apps like Times Parking help locate nearby legal parking spaces.

 

By being aware of these common mistakes and following these practical tips, foreign drivers can have a safer and more enjoyable driving experience in Japan.

 

What to Do If You Have an Accident in Japan

1. Stop Immediately & Turn on Hazard Lights

   • Leaving the scene is illegal, even for minor accidents.

2. Check for Injuries

   • If anyone is injured, call 119 for an ambulance.

3. Call the Police (110) Even for Minor Accidents

   • A police report is mandatory for insurance claims and rental car companies.
   • Use a translation app if needed.

4. Exchange Information

   • Collect details:
     • Name, phone number, and address of involved parties.
     • Car registration number and insurance details.

5. Contact Your Rental Car Company & Insurance Provider

   • Most rental agencies provide English support.
   • If you purchased travel insurance, inform them immediately.

6. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of the accident, road conditions, and any damage.

7. Follow Up with Authorities & Insurance

   • You may need to visit a police station for further paperwork.
   • Keep all accident-related documents for your insurance claim.

Many travelers drive cars in Japan using our JAF drive license translation certificate. 

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