Driving in Japan

Driving circumstances, Driver license system, Traffic rules, etc. in Japan

Driving in Japan can be an exciting experience depending on where you plan to drive and where you live. Narrow roads, bicyclists and finding a parking spot may lead to unwanted stress. However, once you know what to do and what not to do, driving in Japan is just as easy as it is anywhere else that has a similar infrastructure.

Below we have gathered useful information for expats who plan to drive in Japan. Our articles cover topics such as how to convert your foreign license to a Japanese driver's license, how to lease a car, how to fill up gas, how to use a child car sheet, information on driving schools and car dealers that offer English-speaking services, and more.

Gas Stations in Japan - How to fill up

If you own a car or for whatever other reason need to drive in Japan, then you have no doubt become acquainted with the Japanese gas station. Originally, Japanese gas stations were full-service only, with a few attendants waiting around for customers and then providing their service energetically w…

Buying, Leasing, and Renting a Car in Japan

Getting around Japan, let alone Tokyo, can be a daunting task for the unprepared. Trains are wonderfully efficient and timely in Japan, but there are some things that Japan's public transportation system simply cannot accomplish. Have you ever tried to help a friend move their fantastic armoire by…

Child Car Seat Safety in Japan

Those with children coming to Japan and planning to drive will need to know the laws regarding child safety in cars. Some might be surprised at either the strictness or laxness of the laws in Japan depending on what country you originated from. Child car seat usage law in Japan According to Japanes…

How to Rent a Car in Japan

Japan has one of the best public transit systems in the world, especially in the Greater Tokyo Area and other urban environments throughout the country. Between trains, buses, and subways, you are covered almost anywhere you could wish to go in the city, but what about when you want to head into th…

English-Speaking Driving Schools in Tokyo

If you are unfamiliar with Japanese driving rules or are otherwise unable to pass the practical driving test, you may want to attend one of the many driving schools in Tokyo.If you would like to know how to convert your foreign license to a Japanese one, please read "How to Switch your Driver's Li…

Japan Traffic Violations: Demerit Point System & Ticket Colors

Whether you have an international permit or a Japanese driver’s license, Japan’s driving rules remain the same — as do the punishments if you’re caught violating them. If you’re concerned about staying on the right side of the law while behind the wheel, keep reading to find out the basics on Japan…

Driving Stickers in Japan

This page contains affiliate links. Have you ever seen driving stickers on cars in Japan? There are very specific stickers that are required by law to be placed on cars belonging to certain classes of drivers. The reason you see these is because they are there to tell other drivers to be cautious a…

Driving on Japan’s Highways and Toll Roads

For those new to driving in Japan, using the highways and toll roads can be an exciting opportunity to see some of the best of the country’s destinations that public transportation doesn’t offer convenient access to. It can also be a daunting prospect if you aren’t used to the way Japanese roads wo…

Japanese Driver's License Classifications & Their Meanings

Living in Japan can present many challenges associated with daily living, as processes and procedures may differ from your home country. One area that can be confusing yet necessary for many international residents is Japan’s system for obtaining a driver’s license, including which type of license c…

Parking in Japan: What to Know before Getting on the Road

As with anywhere in the world, driving to any destination involves finding a parking spot for your vehicle. When driving in Japan, especially in highly populated cities like Tokyo, finding a parking spot make take some time and planning. Drivers who are new to Japan may also need to bear in mind pa…