Traffic rules
Follow traffic rules to enjoy cycling safely
Basic Rules for Safe Cycling
1.
Ride on the left-hand side of roadways; use sidewalks only in exceptional cases, yielding to pedestrians
Bicycles should generally be ridden on the left side of 
roadways. Sidewalks should be used only when necessary, such as when indicated by signs or when unavoidable due to road conditions. Cyclists should always yield to pedestrians on sidewalks when unavoidable given the road or traffic conditions. Cyclists must ride along the side adjacent to the roadway at a speed that would allow them to stop immediately whenever they need to, and the right-of-way must be yielded to pedestrians on sidewalks.
Do not ride on the right-hand side of the road as you may collide against oncoming bikes or motorcycles.
2.
Observe traffic lights and stop signs at intersections, and confirm safety
Pay attention to traffic signals at intersections. If you see traffic lights specifically for pedestrians and cyclists, follow those. Always stop at stop signs. When joining or crossing a main road, or when visibility is poor, ensure it’s safe before entering the intersection.
3.
Turn on lights at night
Lights are essential for both seeing the road ahead and being seen by others. Riding without lights at night can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of accidents.
4.
Riding under the influence of alcohol is prohibited
You will be subject to penalties or fines for riding a bike under the influence of alcohol. It may lead to a major accident, so do not ride a bike after drinking alcohol.
5.
Wear a helmet
Helmets can help mitigate head injuries, the most common fatal injuries in bike accidents. Be sure to wear your helmet in case you get involved in an accident.* In Japan, cyclists are required to make an effort to wear a helmet when riding a bike.
6.
Observe safety rules
Refrain from biking at excessive speeds. Also, do not ride double or use your smartphone when riding a bicycle.
7.
Ride in a line, not in parallel
When two cyclists ride side-by-side on the road, one of them will end up traveling near the center of the road. This is dangerous and should be avoided.
8.
Take out bicycle liability insurance
In traffic accidents involving a bicycle, the cyclist may be held liable for a large amount of damages in some cases. You should take out bicycle liability insurance in case of an accident.
9.
Give consideration to pedestrians and drivers
Roads are for everyone. Give consideration to others when traveling on the road.
Basic Knowledge of Road Sings
These sings you must stop in front of white line. If you do not follow stop line, you will be subject to
penalties.
The sing is for pedestrians and cyclists, however you must pay attention to other.