In recent years, Japan has seen a surge in foreign tourists, and with that, an increase in the number of rental cars being used by these visitors. Unfortunately, there has also been a noticeable rise in traffic accidents involving foreign drivers unfamiliar with Japan’s driving rules and road conditions. After a temporary decrease in tourist numbers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visitors have returned in large numbers in 2023, and with them, the number of accidents has spiked again.
This issue is particularly problematic in popular tourist destinations like Hokkaido and Okinawa, where many visitors prefer to rent cars to explore the areas. However, foreign drivers unfamiliar with local roadways and traffic laws often cause accidents, impacting both local residents and other tourists. While Japan warmly welcomes tourists, those who fail to follow the rules become a serious safety concern.
Driving Rules in Japan and the Need for International Permits
To drive in Japan, you typically need a Japanese driver’s license. However, short-term foreign visitors can drive using an International Driving Permit (IDP). Depending on the country of origin, some tourists may not need an IDP due to bilateral agreements that allow them to drive with just their domestic license and a translated copy. For instance, tourists from Germany and France can drive in Japan with their licenses, as long as they provide an official translation.
That said, even with the proper documentation, many foreign drivers are not fully aware of Japan’s traffic laws, especially the fact that Japan drives on the left side of the road. Tourists from right-hand driving countries often find themselves disoriented, sometimes driving in the wrong lane, leading to dangerous situations. Differences in traffic signals and road signs can also confuse tourists, contributing to the increasing number of accidents.
Recent Accident Cases
Several high-profile cases of accidents involving foreign tourists have been reported in recent years, particularly in Okinawa and Hokkaido. In 2023, a foreign tourist in Okinawa caused a major accident by driving the wrong way on the highway. While no one was killed, multiple cars were involved, and the incident caused severe traffic congestion. It was later revealed that the driver had misinterpreted Japanese road signs, leading to the wrong-way driving.
In Hokkaido, tourists frequently lose control of vehicles on icy roads, resulting in numerous accidents during the winter season. Hokkaido is known for its heavy snowfall, and tourists inexperienced with driving in such conditions are at a higher risk of causing accidents. Local rental car companies often recommend winter tires or snow chains, but the language barrier and lack of winter driving experience still contribute to the problem.
The Underlying Issues Behind These Accidents
The primary causes of these accidents often stem from language barriers, differences in traffic rules, and unfamiliarity with local driving conditions.
Firstly, many road signs and signals in Japan are only in Japanese, making it difficult for foreign drivers to understand, especially in rural areas. Furthermore, the left-hand traffic system is often unfamiliar to many tourists, especially those from countries where driving on the right side of the road is the norm. This confusion greatly increases the risk of accidents.
Insurance and rental car agreements can also become problematic. Many tourists don’t fully understand how insurance works in Japan or what to do in the event of an accident. This can lead to complications in resolving accidents, causing frustration for both the foreign drivers and the Japanese parties involved.
What Tourists and Japanese Authorities Should Consider
Ensuring that foreign tourists can drive safely in Japan requires cooperation from both sides. Here are some tips for tourists:
- Learn Japan’s traffic laws and road signs before renting a car.
- Consult with the rental company if you feel unsure about driving.
- Avoid driving on challenging roads such as snowy or mountainous routes if you’re inexperienced.
On the Japanese side, improving language support is crucial. Rental car companies should offer clearer, multilingual explanations about driving in Japan. Additionally, popular tourist areas should improve road signage with multiple language options to help avoid confusion among drivers.
Implementing driving lessons or safety briefings for foreign tourists, especially those from countries with significantly different driving rules, can also help prevent accidents. Providing a simple, short course or guide before they hit the road could make a big difference.
Promoting Safe Driving for Foreign Tourists
To ensure that foreign tourists can drive safely in Japan, it’s essential to strengthen the support system and provide better access to driving information. Both tourists and the Japanese authorities need to play their part in preventing accidents. Rental car companies and local governments should improve multilingual support and raise awareness of traffic rules to help foreign drivers avoid dangerous situations.
At the same time, tourists must take responsibility for learning Japan’s traffic rules and driving with caution. Only through mutual cooperation can Japan’s roads become safer for both locals and tourists alike.
While Japan is open and welcoming to visitors from abroad, it’s vital that everyone respects the country’s traffic rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
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