Cars and Driving

Japan is a exceptionally-convenient country for public transport. It’s possible to survive your whole life without having a car or a driver’s license. However, if you want to venture out in to the countryside or if you need to drive your kids to their appointments, a car will make your life much easier! Key Facts about Driving in Japan Drive on the LEFT side of the road (you probably already knew this). The use of seat belts for drivers and passengers is mandatory. It is compulsory to use a child seat for children under elementary school age. The legal blood alcohol limit in Japan is ZERO. Signs for destinations are blue for regular roads and green for highways. To find an on-ramp, just look for the green signs. Take some cash with you, as the highways are quite expensive! For those who travel on the highway a lot, there is an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system that, when you install it in your car and use it in conjunction with a special credit card, allows you to pass through a special gate. Using the ETC system also makes you eligible for any discounts available (e.g., the late-night discount). To buy…