Q. What are the traffic rules for bicycles on the Shimanami Kaido?
Q. What are the traffic rules for bicycles in Japan?
A. Since the cycling route on the Shimanami Kaido is part of public roads, bicycles must obey Japan’s Road Traffic Act. Please make sure to review Japan’s bicycle traffic rules before your visit.
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Follow Japan’s Road Traffic Act
On the Shimanami Kaido, cyclists ride on various types of roads, such as dedicated bicycle and pedestrian lanes on bridges, exclusive lanes for bicycles and mopeds, and regular public roads used as local streets. All these cycling routes are public roads, so there are no special exceptions—bicycles must strictly follow the Road Traffic Act at all times. The law is sometimes updated, so please ensure you understand the latest regulations and always follow both traffic rules and cycling etiquette to enjoy a safe and pleasant ride.
Review the Traffic Rules Before Your Trip
Rules about where bicycles are allowed to ride, which signals to follow, right turns (two-step right turns), and one-way streets can differ from country to country. In Japan, as with cars, bicycles must keep to the left side of the road. Even if you haven’t ridden in a while and are using a rental bike along the Shimanami Kaido, make sure to review and understand Japan’s traffic rules and cycling manners. Police websites often explain these clearly, so checking them in advance is recommended.
Important Notes Specific to the Shimanami Kaido
On the Shimanami Kaido, you will frequently ride on bicycle-only lanes and shared pedestrian-bicycle paths, which may be rare in your daily life. Signs indicate where bicycles should ride, so please follow them carefully. On narrow bridge sections, the lanes can be extremely tight, so riding side-by-side or in the opposite direction (against traffic) is strictly prohibited. Many accidents also happen due to distracted riding, such as using a smartphone while cycling. If you need to stop for photos or communication, pull over safely to the left side of a spacious area and stop in a single file.
Helmet Use Encouraged by Law
As of April 2023, Japan’s Road Traffic Act recommends that all cyclists wear a helmet. Previously, the law encouraged helmet use for children under 13 only, but this has been expanded to include all cyclists as a recommended practice. In Ehime Prefecture, where the Shimanami Kaido is located, helmet use has been promoted by local regulations for years, and helmet-wearing rates are among the highest in Japan.
This page answers the common question: “What are the traffic rules for bicycles in Japan?” with a simple answer and detailed explanations. For more frequently asked questions, please check the page below. We hope this information helps you plan your cycling trip along the Shimanami Kaido.
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