Cycling in Japan: new rules to follow

Riding on the sidewalk

Bicycles may be ridden on sidewalks ONLY when authorized by a blue sign. In these areas, you must ride slowly, give way to pedestrians and use the bell if necessary. Some sidewalks also have a separate lane for bicycles, clearly marked on the ground or by a sign.

On sidewalks without a sign, bicycle traffic is illegal. This is particularly the case near schools, to protect young pedestrians.

Obviously, riding too fast or recklessly, even on an authorized sidewalk, can result in fines and penalties!

Compulsory equipment

All bicycles must be equipped with brakes in good working order, as well as front and rear lights (switched on at night). A bell is also required to signal your presence to other users, and helmets are compulsory for children under 13. Although not legally required for adults, it is strongly recommended for personal safety.

Parking

Illegal parking is strictly prohibited. Bicycles improperly parked on sidewalks can be removed by the municipality and recovered on payment of a fine. To park your bike, it's best to use the dedicated parking zones, often subject to a charge, located near train stations, shops or tourist centers. Please note: Some shops have no-parking signs ( 駐輪禁止 in Japanese).

Behavior and safety

It's essential to respect pedestrians, signal any change of direction with your arms, and adapt your speed to your surroundings.
The use of telephones or headphones while driving is forbidden, and driving under the influence of alcohol is severely punished.
In addition, only one person is allowed per bicycle, unless it is fitted with an approved child seat.

Good to know: in Japan, there are "no-bike" or one-way streets. In this case, it's best to use the narrow lane separated from the road by a white line, where cars don't circulate. Be careful, however, as pedestrians can also use this lane. Look out for the "自転車を除く" sign under the one-way or no-one-way signs (blue arrow).

Since April 2026, penalties have been increased:

• Using the phone while driving: 12,000 yen
• Crossing the level crossing when the barrier begins to lower: 7,000 yen
• Driving with defective brakes: 5,000 yen
• Ignoring traffic lights: 6,000 yen
• Stopping at a "no stopping" point: 5,000 yen
• Failing to give way to pedestrians on the crosswalk: 6,000 yen
• Not switching on lights at night: 5,000 yen
• More than one person on a bike: 3,000 yen
• Riding side by side: 3,000 yen
• Riding while holding an umbrella: 6,000 yen
• Riding dangerously (e.g. with headphones): 6,000 yen