From April 2026, police issue on-the-spot fines (青切符) for cycling violations. This applies to tourists too. Browse all 15 violations or search for a specific behavior.
Japan's revised Road Traffic Act introduced on-the-spot fines (青切符, ao-kippu) for cyclists starting April 2026. These rules apply to tourists renting bicycles as well as residents. Accumulating 2 or more violations within 3 years triggers a mandatory cycling safety course.
The two highest-risk violations are: smartphone use while cycling (¥50,000–¥100,000 fine or up to 6 months imprisonment) and drunk cycling (up to ¥1,000,000 or 5 years imprisonment). Medium-risk violations include riding without lights at night (¥50,000), ignoring traffic signals (¥30,000–¥50,000), and cycling on the wrong side of a pedestrian path.
By default, cyclists must ride on the road, not the pavement. Helmets are strongly recommended for all adults and legally required for children under 13. Data sourced from the National Police Agency (NPA) and verified March 2026.