For First-Time Users

Traffic Signals and Signs You Should Know

About Traffic Signs

Relationship Between Signals and Signs

In Japan, traffic rules are applied in a specific order depending on the situation.

❶ Police Officer Instructions (Highest Priority)

If police are directing traffic due to accidents, construction, or events, follow their instructions over signals and signs.

❷ Traffic Signals

If no police officer is present, follow the traffic signals.
At intersections with signals, signals override signs.

❸ Regulatory Signs & Markings

Where no signals exist, regulatory signs apply.

❹ Warning Signs

Warning signs alert drivers to surrounding conditions.

If multiple displays are present, they apply from top to bottom.
However, where no signal exists, always follow regulatory signs.

Mandatory Signs (Regulatory Signs)

The following signs must always be obeyed.

Stop (With Stop Line)

Must come to a complete stop before the stop line
Slowing down only is a violation

No Entry

Entry from the specified direction is prohibited
Driving against traffic is a serious violation

No Parking / No Stopping

No Parking: even short stops prohibited
No Stopping: no passenger loading/unloading

Violations are subject to fines and demerit points.

Warning Signs Requiring Caution

Drive with extra caution
where these signs appear.

Crosswalk

Must stop if pedestrians are present
Pedestrians have priority even without signals

School / Children Warning

Watch for children running into the road
Check surroundings and slow down

Railroad Crossing

Must stop before railroad crossing
Proceed after checking both directions

Warning signs mean "slow down and use caution."

Guide Signs & Supplementary Signs

Guide and supplementary signs provide
important driving information.

For safe driving, make sure you understand the meaning of traffic signs correctly.

Parking

Indicates parking areas

Time/Day Supplementary Signs

Specifies regulated times/days
Always check the details

Overlooking supplementary signs may result in violations.

List of Traffic Signs in Japan

Check commonly seen Japanese road signs.

Japanese Signs

We have summarized common traffic signs in Japan and their meanings. Review them before driving and drive safely.

Regulatory Signs

Road Closed

Pedestrians, vehicles, motorcycles, and trams may not pass.

No Vehicles

Vehicles (including cars, bicycles, and motorcycles) are not allowed.

No Vehicle Entry

Vehicles (including cars, bicycles, and motorcycles) may not enter from this direction.

No Motor Vehicles Except Two-Wheeled

Except for two-wheeled vehicles, no other vehicles may pass through.

Prohibition of Indicated Vehicle Type

Vehicles depicted on the sign are prohibited from passing. (e.g., automobiles, two-wheeled vehicles, motorized bicycles, etc.)

Do not proceed except in the designated direction (A)

You may only go in the direction indicated by the arrow (straight ahead or left turn)

Do not proceed except in the designated direction (B)

You may only go in the direction indicated by the arrow (left turn)

Do not proceed except in the designated direction (C)

You may only go in the direction indicated by the arrow (straight ahead)

Do not proceed except in the designated direction (D)

You may only go in the direction indicated by the arrow (left or right turn)

Do not proceed except in the designated direction (E)

You may only go in the direction indicated by the arrow (straight ahead or left/right turn)

If you do not understand a sign while driving,
stop in a safe place before checking.