Japanese Road Signs and Meanings

When driving on unfamiliar roads or in unfamiliar areas, it is helpful to understand the meanings of road signs to avoid unexpected accidents.
Here, we explain the important roads signs found in Japan and their meanings.

Main Regulatory Signs in Japan

Cars must not enter the section of road.


* While it is similar to "Road Closed", this sign prohibits cars from entering the road from the side where the sign is located, while exiting from a specific direction is allowed (e.g., one-way street).

Cars are not permitted to pass through the section of road.

*While it is similar to "No Entry for Vehicles", this sign prohibits all traffic regardless of their direction of travel.

No parking or stopping is allowed in the area.

No parking is allowed in the area.

Cars must always stop at the spot of the sign and check if it is safe to proceed.
Cars must also not obstruct traffic on the side of the road where the sign is placed, as other roads have the right of way.

Cars must travel at a speed that allows it to stop immediately in that section of road.

*Please note that there is no specified speed limit, and the general rule is that the car must be able to stop within 1 meter at a speed of 10 km/h or less, however since this is only a guide, the driver must use their own judgement.
This is because the speed at which a car can stop immediately depends on the road conditions, such as a slope or snowy roads.

Cars must not exceed the limit that is indicated on the sign.

Cars must not drive below the speed indicated on the sign.

U-turns are prohibited in the area.

In the specified area, cars must not swerve into the right part of the road when overtaking.

Do not proceed in any direction other than those indicated by the signs.

*While it is similar to the "One Way" sign, these signs are placed primarily at intersections or specific locations and regulate traffic only at that one point, rather than applying to the entire road in question.

Cars may only proceed in one direction as indicated by the sign.

*While it is similar to the "Arrows Direction Only" sign, this sign applies to the entire road in question. Left and right turns are permitted on one-way streets.

Only certain vehicles, as indicated by the sign, are allowed to pass through this zone.
*In the case of this sign, it indicates that the traffic zone is for the exclusive use of local buses. Please note that other vehicles may use the zone before an intersection when they are wishing to turn at the relevant intersection.

Major warning signs in Japan

This sign indicates that the number of lanes will be reduced on the road ahead.

This sign indicates that the road will become narrower on the road ahead.

This sign indicates that the road ahead is slippery.

This sign indicates that there is a risk of falling rocks on the road ahead.

This sign indicates that there is a railroad crossing on the road ahead.
*Drivers are required to stop at railroad crossing and check that it is safe to proceed, except for when there is traffic lights.

This sign indicates that traffic will merge on the road ahead.

Be sure to check Japanese traffic rules and the meanings of traffic signals

When driving on Japanese roads, it is necessary to be aware of the various traffic rules and regulations as well as road signs.
For example, cars drive on the left-hand side in Japan, meaning driving on the right is considered to be driving on the wrong side of the road, thus overseas visitors need to be careful.
Furthermore, while in some countries it is possible to turn right or left at a red light, in Japan, drivers must not proceed in any direction.
For more information on Japan's unique traffic rules and the meanings of traffic signals, please check the following page.
Traffic Rules and Signals in Japan　＞

In addition, knowing what to do in the event of an accident can allow you to deal with the situation in a calm and relaxed manner.
For more details, please check the following page.
What to Do in the Event of an Accident When Using a Rental Car　＞