Tourist driving guideDriving in Tokyo
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Tokyo, Japan. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
AutoviaTest.comInternational Driving Permit (IDP) in Tokyo
IDP required
IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention type only). Japanese translation of license also works.
Accepted licenses
- IDP (1949 Geneva type only)
- Japanese translation certified by JAF
Traffic rules in Tokyo
Local traffic rules
Drive on the LEFT
Extremely strict traffic laws
No jaywalking or running red lights ever
Highway tolls are expensive
Many one-way streets with complex routing
Common tourist mistakes
- Not having correct IDP type (must be 1949 Geneva)
- Underestimating highway toll costs
- Getting lost (address system is unique)
- Driving when train is easier
- Not understanding parking rules
Horn culture
Almost never used. Honking is considered very rude.
Traffic fines & penalties
Safety tips
Essential safety tips
- Japanese drivers are very polite and law-abiding
- The challenge is navigation, not aggressive drivers
- Use GPS/navigation - address system is unique
- Train is almost always more convenient in Tokyo
- Consider renting a car only for countryside trips
Best time to drive
Avoid driving in central Tokyo. If you must, late night.
Seasonal weather warning
June-July (Tsuyu): Heavy rain season. August-October: Typhoon season with possible flooding.
Areas to avoid (for beginners)
- Central Tokyo (just use trains)
- Shinjuku/Shibuya areas
- Any area during rush hour
Parking
Average cost
¥300-1,500/hour ($2-10)Scooter parking
Less common than car parking. Usually share with bicycles.
Parking tips
- Tokyo parking is expensive and limited
- Coin parking lots (times parking) are common
- Some parking uses car elevators/stackers
- Illegal parking strictly enforced
Where to park
Tokyo
Where to park
Renting a car in Tokyo?
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FAQ: Driving in Tokyo
Do I need to drive in Tokyo?
No. Tokyo has the world's best train system. Driving is slower, more expensive, and unnecessary for tourists.
What type of IDP do I need for Japan?
Japan only accepts 1949 Geneva Convention IDPs. Check with your issuing authority - Vienna Convention IDPs are NOT accepted.
When should I rent a car in Japan?
For countryside trips (Hokkaido, Okinawa, rural areas). In cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, trains are more practical.
Can you pass the test?
Try a few real practice questions
What is the general speed limit on roads in Japan where no speed limit sign is posted?
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