Driving in Japan — A Complete Guide for Foreign Tourists

Driving in Japan as a tourist — the quick answer

Japan drives on the left, requires the 1949-Convention International Driving Permit alongside your licence, and its expressways are tolled and pricey. Otherwise it’s calm, orderly driving — signs carry English and rental cars have English sat-nav. The joys (and the rules foreigners miss) are out on the mountain and coastal roads. The full tourist guide is below.

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Driving in Japan as a foreign tourist requires specific preparation, from obtaining the correct type of International Driving Permit to understanding the unique road etiquette and toll system. This guide covers what you need for a safe and enjoyable Japanese driving experience.

Licence Requirements

International Driving Permit — The Critical Detail

Japan accepts only IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a crucial distinction. Many European countries issue IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention, which Japan does not recognise.

If your country only issues Vienna Convention IDPs, you must obtain an official Japanese translation of your licence from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) upon arrival. This costs approximately JPY 4,000 and takes one business day.

For full details on IDP types and where to obtain them, see our International Driving Permit guide.

Road Rules and Etiquette

Driving on the Left

Japan drives on the left. Vehicles are right-hand drive. If this is your first time driving on the left, see our guide to driving on the left for practical tips.

Speed Limits

• Residential areas: 30-40 km/h
• Urban roads: 40-60 km/h
• Rural national roads: 60 km/h
• Expressways: 80-100 km/h (select sections 120 km/h)

Speed limits are posted in km/h. Enforcement is strict — both fixed speed cameras and mobile police patrols are common. Fines range from JPY 9,000 for minor offences to JPY 100,000+ for significant speeding.

Zero Tolerance for Drink Driving

Japan has among the strictest drink-driving laws in the world. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03% — effectively zero for most people. Penalties include:

• Fines up to JPY 1,000,000
• Prison sentences up to 5 years
• Passengers who knowingly ride with an intoxicated driver can also be fined
• Providing alcohol to someone who is going to drive is also a criminal offence

Road Etiquette

Japanese drivers are exceptionally courteous. Common customs include:

• Hazard light thank-you: When someone lets you merge or gives way, a brief flash of hazard lights is the standard thank-you gesture.
• No horn usage: Horns are almost never used in Japan. Using your horn aggressively is considered very rude.
• Strict lane discipline: Drivers stay in their lanes meticulously.
• Pedestrian priority: Drivers always stop for pedestrians at crossings.

Renting a Car

Requirements

• Valid driving licence from your home country
• Geneva Convention IDP (or JAF translation)
• Passport
• Credit card for the rental deposit
• Minimum age: 18 (some companies require 21 for certain vehicles)

Choosing a Vehicle

Most tourists rent a kei car (light vehicle, up to 660cc) or a compact car. These are practical for Japan’s narrow roads and tight parking spaces. If touring Hokkaido or planning mountain driving, consider a larger vehicle or a small SUV.

Automatic transmission is standard in Japanese rental cars. Manual transmission is available but uncommon.

Major Rental Companies

• Toyota Rent a Car
• Nippon Rent-A-Car
• Times Car Rental
• Orix Rent-A-Car
• Budget / Avis (at major airports)

English-speaking staff and English GPS navigation are available at major branches, particularly near airports. Book in advance during peak seasons (cherry blossom in April, autumn colours in November, and Golden Week in early May).

Expressways and Tolls

Toll Costs

Japanese expressways charge distance-based tolls that add up quickly:

Japan Expressway Pass (JEP)

Foreign tourists can purchase the Japan Expressway Pass, which offers unlimited expressway use for a fixed period. This can save substantial money on longer road trips.

• 7-day pass: JPY 8,000-10,000 (depending on region)
• 14-day pass: JPY 14,000-17,000
• Must be purchased through participating rental car companies
• Requires an ETC on-board unit (standard in most rental cars)

ETC Cards

An ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card allows you to pass through toll gates without stopping. Most rental cars are equipped with ETC units. You can rent an ETC card from the rental company for JPY 300-500 per day.

Fuel and Parking

Fuel

• Most rental cars use regular unleaded (レギュラー)
• Fuel prices are approximately JPY 170-180 per litre
• Full-service stations are common in rural areas — staff will fill your tank, clean your windscreen, and take payment. Simply say “regular, mantan” (レギュラー満タン) for a full tank of regular.
• Self-service stations are marked with セルフ (self)

Parking

Parking in Japanese cities requires patience and planning:

• Coin parking lots (コインパーキング) are small automated lots throughout cities. Costs range from JPY 200-1,500 per hour depending on location.
• Multi-storey car parks at shopping centres and stations offer hourly or daily rates.
• Never park illegally — enforcement is strict. Illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed quickly, and repeat offenders may have their rental agreement terminated.
• Accommodation often includes parking but confirm when booking.

Best Driving Routes

Hokkaido

Japan’s northernmost island is a paradise for road trips. Wide, empty roads, stunning scenery, and excellent food. The drive from Sapporo through Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa offers lavender fields in summer and spectacular autumn colours.

Okinawa

Subtropical islands with beautiful coastal drives. A car is essential for exploring beyond Naha. The drive along Okinawa’s west coast offers turquoise waters and American-influenced culture.

Japanese Alps (Chubu Region)

Mountain passes, hot springs, and traditional villages. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (partially car-free) and surrounding roads offer dramatic mountain scenery. Check our mountain pass driving tips for general alpine driving advice.

Shikoku

The island of 88 temples. A circuit of Shikoku offers a mix of coastal drives, mountain roads, and historical towns. Less touristy than Honshu, with excellent local cuisine.

Seasonal Considerations

Winter (December — March)

• Hokkaido and northern Honshu receive heavy snowfall. Winter tyres or snow chains are mandatory. Rental companies fit winter tyres automatically in affected regions.
• Expressway closures are common during blizzards. Check road conditions before departure.
• See our winter driving guide.

Summer (June — August)

• Rainy season (Tsuyu) from mid-June to mid-July brings heavy rain. Drive cautiously.
• Typhoon season from August to October can cause road closures and flooding.

Cherry Blossom Season (Late March — Mid-April)

Popular viewing spots experience heavy traffic. Plan routes to avoid congestion around famous parks and temples.

Emergency Information

• Police: 110
• Ambulance / Fire: 119
• Japan Helpline (English): 0570-000-911
• Roadside assistance: Your rental company’s 24-hour hotline (provided with the rental agreement)

In case of an accident, no matter how minor:

1. Do not move the vehicles until police arrive
2. Call 110 (police)
3. Call your rental company
4. Exchange information with the other driver
5. Get a police report — this is essential for insurance claims

Conclusion

Driving in Japan offers access to some of the country’s most beautiful and authentic experiences that are impossible to reach by train. With the correct IDP, an understanding of local road rules, and a bit of preparation with tolls and parking, a Japanese road trip can be the highlight of your visit.

For driving rules and tyre laws in Japan, visit our Japan driving guide and Japan tyre laws. Compare Japanese driving rules with your home country using our comparison tool.