How Does Driving Rules Work in Japan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Drive on the left. An International Driving Permit (IDP) plus your original license is required. Traffic laws are strictly enforced.
2What You Need to Know
Japan drives on the left side of the road. To rent or drive a car, you need a valid International Driving Permit issued in your home country along with your original national license — an IDP alone is not sufficient. Traffic laws are strictly enforced and penalties are severe. Right turns on red are not permitted. Expressway tolls are expensive and use an ETC electronic system — rental cars usually come with an ETC card. Parking in cities is costly and difficult. On mountain and rural roads, be alert for deer crossing at night. Petrol stations are often full-service rather than self-serve.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Obtain your IDP from your home country's automobile association before departure — it cannot be issued abroad
- 2Rent a car with an ETC card already included to pay expressway tolls without stopping at booths
- 3Driving is most worthwhile in rural areas like Hokkaido, the Japan Alps, or the Noto Peninsula where public transport is limited
Important Warning
Driving in central Tokyo and Osaka is strongly discouraged — parking is extremely expensive, one-way systems are complex, and public transport is far faster.
How does this compare?
Driving Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Thailand drives on the left; an international driving licence is required, but scooter rental is common and accident rates among tourists are very high — always wear a helmet.
Singapore drives on the left, has strict speed enforcement and ERP toll charges for the CBD, but most visitors are better served by MRT and Grab than by renting a car.
India drives on the LEFT, roads are chaotic and conditions vary dramatically — hiring a local driver is strongly recommended over self-driving for most tourists.
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More About Japan
Do not tip in Japan. Tipping is considered rude and may cause embarrassment.
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Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major station. It works on all trains, subways, and most buses nationwide.
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Japan has excellent hospitals but they are expensive for uninsured tourists. Always bring travel insurance. Many hospitals do not speak English.
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Japan has strict drug laws, zero tolerance for drunk driving, and laws against jaywalking in some areas. Ignorance is not a defense.
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Police: 110. Ambulance & Fire: 119. Tourist helpline (English): 050-3816-2787.
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Japan is generally relaxed about clothing, but remove shoes when entering homes and many temples. Dress modestly at religious sites.
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