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.
