Driving in Japan — International Driving Permit guide
Japan flag

Conduire en Japan

Ancient temples, modern cities, and scenic countryside. Drive on the left through mountains and coastal routes.

Photo : Su San Lee / Unsplash

Informations essentielles

IDP Status
Permis international requis
Sens de circulation
Gauche

Limitations de vitesse

40
Zone urbaine
40 km/h
60
Route rurale
60 km/h
100
Autoroute
100 km/h

Guide de voyage du pays

Japan masterfully blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology—serene temples next to neon-lit streets, bullet trains passing rice paddies, and hospitality refined over centuries. This island nation offers unforgettable experiences for every interest.

Tokyo overwhelms with neighborhoods from traditional Asakusa to trendy Shibuya, from electronic Akihabara to upscale Ginza. The Meiji Shrine provides forest tranquility minutes from the famous Shibuya Crossing. World-class museums, gardens, and restaurants fill every district.

Kyoto preserves classical Japan with over 2,000 temples and shrines, geisha districts, and traditional ryokan inns. The bamboo grove of Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari's thousands of torii gates, and the Golden Pavilion represent quintessential Japan.

Mount Fuji dominates the landscape viewable from Tokyo on clear days. The Japanese Alps around Takayama and Shirakawa-go offer preserved villages and mountain scenery. Hiroshima's Peace Memorial provides powerful reflection.

Osaka energizes with street food culture, nightlife, and direct character. Nara's friendly deer roam among ancient temples. The art islands of Naoshima transform industrial spaces into world-class museums.

Japanese cuisine encompasses sushi, ramen, tempura, kaiseki (multi-course), and regional specialties. The culture of perfect service extends to every convenience store and vending machine.

Driving in Japan is on the left with excellent but expensive expressways. An International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention) is required. Most visitors use the efficient rail network, but driving provides access to rural areas and mountain regions.

Meilleures destinations

1
Mount Fuji Area
2
Hokkaido Scenic Routes
3
Japanese Alps
4
Okinawa Islands

Conseils de conduite

Portez toujours votre permis international avec votre permis national
Familiarisez-vous avec les règles de circulation locales
Vérifiez les exigences d'assurance lors de la location d'une voiture
Respectez les limitations de vitesse locales

Questions fréquemment posées

Do I need an IDP to drive in Japan?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Japan. The IDP works alongside your national driving license.

Which side of the road do they drive on in Japan?

In Japan, traffic drives on the left side of the road.

What are the speed limits in Japan?

Speed limits in Japan: urban areas — 40 km/h, rural roads — 60 km/h, highways — 100 km/h.

How do I get an IDP for Japan?

You can get your IDP online through our website in just a few minutes. You'll need a photo and your national driving license details.

Prêt à voyager vers Japan?

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Informations utiles

Code du paysJP
Côté de conduiteGauche
Statut PCIRequired
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