City traffic in Japan can be very congested and not much fun, but driving in Japan can be a pleasure once you get into the countryside and the mountains.
Especially outside of the cities, long-time residents of Japan often own a car, and in recent years more visitors to Japan are renting cars and driving themselves to ski areas.
Driving in Japan is on the left-hand side of the road, with the driver sitting on the right side. Most roads in Japan are toll-free, except expressways (motorways) and particular toll roads in popular tourist areas.
Road signs largely follow international standards, and most signs on major highways and even many minor roads are in English and Japanese, making the experience reasonably easy for English speakers.
One significant exception is stop signs. In Japan, an inverted red triangle is used for stop signs, rather than the octagonal sign commonly used in most other countries.
It is worth learning and remembering a little Japanese to help with the safety of yourself and others, and to avoid unintentionally breaking the law.
Drivers Licence
To drive in Japan, you will need either a Japanese driving licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the Geneva Convention of 1949. As some countries issue permits under different conventions, it is advisable to check the requirements with your local automobile association, licensing authority or Japanese embassy before travelling.
International Driving Permits must generally be obtained in your home country before arriving in Japan and cannot normally be issued once you are in Japan.
For people residing in Japan long term, obtaining a Japanese driving licence (unten menkyo) may be necessary. Requirements vary depending on nationality, residency status and the type of licence currently held.
Drivers from certain countries can convert their existing driving licence to a Japanese licence through a simplified conversion process. Requirements vary by country and may include documentation, vision testing and other procedures. Details should be confirmed with the relevant licensing authority.
The licence conversion process may include an eye test, attendance at a safety lecture, viewing safety information and completion of the required paperwork. Drivers from countries that do not have licence conversion agreements with Japan may also be required to take written and practical driving tests.
Japanese driving licences are issued in three colours: green, blue and gold.
A first driving licence is green and is generally valid for two years. On renewal, drivers typically receive a blue licence. Drivers with a good driving record may later qualify for a gold licence, which offers a longer validity period and is often regarded as a mark of safe driving.
Car and van rental
Car and van rental is a practical option in Japan, particularly for small groups or travellers exploring rural areas.
While public transport is excellent, it does not always provide direct access to ski areas or remote mountain regions. A car offers flexibility and independence from timetables.
Snow tyres are essential in winter conditions. Navigation systems are usually provided, though English language options may vary, especially in older systems.
Rental vehicles in snow regions are often equipped with winter tyres during the snow season, but it is worth confirming this when booking.
Car rental is available at all major airports, and advance booking is recommended.
Snow tyres and snow chains
Snow tyres improve traction on snow and ice and are essential in Japan’s snow regions. Many drivers use two sets of tyres and switch seasonally.
Expressways may require snow tyres during snowfall conditions, and tyre checkpoints may be implemented.
Tyre tread must be maintained above legal minimum standards.
Snow chains can be used when required, but they are generally considered a supplement to snow tyres rather than a replacement. They reduce fuel efficiency and may not be suitable for all roads. Some roads and tunnels may restrict the use of chains in certain circumstances.
Owning a car
Cars in Japan can be relatively inexpensive to purchase, with used models available for under one million yen.
However, ownership costs include taxes, insurance, fuel, and regular inspections. The compulsory shaken (vehicle inspection) is typically required every two years.
Careful research is recommended before considering car ownership in Japan.
Types of road in Japan
National routes are major roads connecting regions across Japan. Speed limits are typically 40–70 km/h. Each route number is unique nationwide.
Prefectural roads are managed at prefectural level and may have duplicate numbers in different regions.
Expressways are toll motorways with typical speed limits of 100 km/h, though some sections are lower.
Other toll roads provide shortcuts in certain areas, often in tourist regions.
Expressways in Japan
Japan's expressway network provides fast, efficient travel between cities and regions. These toll roads are designed for long-distance driving and generally have higher speed limits than ordinary roads. However, drivers should not expect every expressway to be a wide multi-lane highway. In some rural and mountainous areas, expressways may narrow to a single lane in each direction despite the tolls charged to use them, limiting overtaking opportunities. A little patience may be required if you find yourself behind a slower vehicle.
Access to expressways is via interchanges, marked IC (for example, Minakami IC). Expressways connect with one another at junctions, marked JCT. Along the route, service areas (SA) provide facilities such as toilets, restaurants and shops, while smaller parking areas (PA) typically offer toilets and vending machines. Some interchanges are designated Smart IC exits and can only be used by vehicles equipped with an ETC system.
Most expressway tolls are based on the distance travelled. Drivers without ETC usually collect a ticket when entering the expressway and pay the toll when exiting.
The ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system allows tolls to be paid automatically without stopping at toll booths. It requires an ETC device installed in the vehicle and linked to a credit card. Drivers should ensure they use the appropriate ETC lanes when entering and leaving the expressway.
Various toll discounts may be available depending on factors such as the route, region or time of travel. Many rental cars can be equipped with ETC systems on request.