5 Bicycle and Traffic Rules in Japan

Are you also planning to travel Japan? Or already staying there but not aware of its bicycle traffic rules?

No worries, we are here to let you aware of them.

Bicycle Rules of a Country

Since every country has its own traffic rules which are compulsory to follow, otherwise penalty is imposed if not followed them.

Every country has its own rules and in this post we are going to highlight on Japan rules of riding a bicycle on roads. Japan government has also made traffic rules, under the Road Traffic Act, for all the vehicles running on the road, including pedestrians which they have to follow, and have set penalties for breaking them.

5 Bicycle Rules in Japan

So if you are also planning to visit Japan then know in advance few of the traffic rules below that Japan has made for bicycle riders.

1. Not to Ride on Pedestrian Sidewalks
   Pedestrian sidewalks are meant for people on foot only. Many times, two-wheelers use this reserved space to save time, and sometimes go wrong side to avoid jam. According to Japanese traffic rules, this place is restricted to pedestrians only and no bicycle rider is allowed to use it. But there is an exception to this as those under 13 and above 70 years or with any disability are free to use this restrictedspace.
2. Keep on Left
   When you are riding bicycles, stick on the left of the road to avoid going in the centre or the wrong side of the road. Many riders stay in the centre of the roads to avoid time that call accidents. The rule came into force since December 2013, since then any violations to it could could result into 30 days prison or a fine of ¥20,000.
3. Drinking and Riding- strictly No!!
   Anyone found under the influence of alcohol while driving or riding a bicycle, could face a imprisonment up to five years or fine of ¥1,000,000.
4. Keep your Hands on Handle
   As per this rule, one should not carry any umbrella, cell phone or hand off the handle while riding a bicycle. And anyone found violating this could face a fine of ¥500,000.
5. Turning on Lights in Night or Dark
   It is compulsory to turn on lights if riding at night in the headlamp along with a bell. You could be stopped by a traffic police even if do not have a bell on your bicycle.These are few of the traffic rules which we have mentioned but if have found any such interesting traffic rules anywhere in the world, then please write in the comment box.