Updated Road Traffic Rules!
国際交流センターTo ensure a safe and comfortable life in Okaya City, let's learn about the updated road traffic rules and important street signs.
1. Speed limit on residential streets is now 30 km/h! On narrow roads near homes or areas with high pedestrian traffic, driving over 30 km/h is prohibited.
- Why is this changing? On narrow streets, children and elderly pedestrians may unexpectedly step onto the road. Reducing speed helps prevent accidents.
- Even if there is no speed limit sign! Even without a "30" sign on the road, narrow streets without a center line are limited to 30 km/h. Please drive carefully!
2. Important Road Signs You Frequently See These are critical traffic signs to know when driving a car or riding a bicycle in Japan:
- Stop Sign ("一時停止" - Ichiji Teishi) A red inverted triangle with "止まれ" written in the center. At this sign, you must come to a complete stop and check both left and right before proceeding.
- One-Way Sign ("一方通行" - Ippo Tsuko) A blue square with a white arrow. Vehicles can only travel in the direction indicated by the arrow. Entering from the opposite direction is extremely dangerous.
- Designated Direction Only Sign ("指定方向外進行禁止" - Shitei Hoko-gai Shinko Kinshi) A blue circle with white arrows. Vehicles may only turn or proceed in the direction(s) shown by the arrows.
3. Key Driving Rules to Follow
- Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks If someone is waiting to cross the street, drivers must come to a complete stop.
- No driving while using a phone Talking on the phone or looking at a screen while driving is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited by law.
Need Help? If you have questions about traffic rules or driver's licenses, please contact the Okaya Police Station or the Okaya International Center. Let's follow the rules and keep our community safe together!
