Bicycle in Japan

Bicycle might be Japanese people’s favorite transportation method, especially in large cities, where it offers an interesting alternative to public transportation.

It is also a good way to enjoy the journey to your destination, and to discover unexpected landscapes or neighborhoods.

Renting a bicycle in Japan is easy, as rental shops can be found in most of touristic destinations. For longer distances, electric-assisted bicycle can be very convenient and spare efforts.

Tokyo often ranks among bicycle-friendly cities in the world.

Cycling rules in Japan

Since 1 June 2015, Japanese law on urban circulation was amended with particular focus on cycling. Some of these rules seem common sense, but make sure to follow them:

• Always keep on the left side of the road (traffic direction in Japan);
• Do not cycle while drunk;
• Do not cycle on the sidewalk, except if a signpost allows it;
• Yield to pedestrians, do not stop on pedestrian crossings;
• Respect traffic lights and Stop signposts ( in Japanese: 止まれ tomare);
• Do not listen to music on earphones or use electronic devices (phone, etc.) while cycling;
• Etc.