Driving In Japan Guide, Rent And Drive A Car In Japan

Japan Driving Guide
To rent a car, you must have an international driver’s license. In the US, get it at the American Automobile Association. If you are going to drive, a good bilingual road map is essential. We like Road Atlas Japan published by Shobunsha and available in English language book stores. Its maps have helpful information such as “this road closed in winter” or “this road extremely congested in fall” These are the things you really need to know.

The main roads in rural areas are remarkably well marked in English. The expressways have bilingual signs as do many of the national and prefectural roads. If the signs aren’t in English, these roads have route numbers that are posted fairly regularly.

Alcohol and driving do not mix. Japanese law does not allow any alcohol in the blood so you can’t even have one drink and drive, The police routinely stop cars for breath tests. Penalties for drinking while intoxicated are high.

The stop sign is a red triangular sign pointing downwards. Japan uses international traffic signs.

The Japan Auto Federation has a reciprocal relationship with the American Automobile Association and other auto associations. If you are a member, you can use their services.
Remember, Japan drives on the left side of the road.