Traffic signsJapan

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.

Traffic signs

Traffic rules

Traffic signs

A traffic sign is a standardised visual symbol placed along roads to guide, warn, or regulate drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These signs provide essential information about road conditions, rules, directions, and potential hazards, helping to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow. They come in various shapes and colours—such as triangular warning signs, circular prohibitory or mandatory signs, and rectangular information signs—each designed for quick recognition and clear understanding.

51. Detour for vehicles that are not allowed to pass

This traffic sign indicates a detour for vehicles that cannot continue on the normal route. Vehicles affected by the relevant restriction should follow the indicated alternative route.

52. Parking allowed

This traffic sign indicates that parking is allowed. Vehicles may be parked in the area covered by the sign subject to any indicated conditions, restrictions or local parking rules.

53. For handcarts

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to handcarts.

54. For cyclists

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to cyclists.

55. For motorcycles

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to motorcycles.

56. For cars

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to cars. The vehicle category covered by the symbol is determined by the applicable local definitions.

57. For trucks

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to trucks. The truck categories covered depend on the applicable local definitions.

58. For trucks exceeding the indicated mass

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to trucks exceeding the indicated mass. The legally relevant mass is determined by the applicable local rules.

59. For buses

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to buses. The vehicle categories covered depend on the applicable local definitions.

60. Mopeds allowed

This supplementary sign indicates that mopeds are allowed where the main traffic sign would otherwise restrict their access or use. The moped categories covered depend on the applicable local rules.

61. To the left

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the left.

62. To the left or right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in both directions shown by the arrows, to the left and right.

63. To the right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the right.

64. metres ahead

This supplementary sign indicates the distance from the main traffic sign to the point where the indicated danger, regulation or information begins. The distance is shown in metres.

65. Give way

This supplementary sign displays the instruction Give Way as additional information to the main traffic sign. It must be interpreted together with the main sign.

66. For metres

This supplementary sign indicates the length of the section to which the main traffic sign applies. The length is shown in metres.

67. During the time shown

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies during the time shown.

68. Recommended speed

This supplementary sign indicates a recommended speed rather than a maximum speed limit. Its legal effect depends on the applicable local rules.

69. Danger

This supplementary sign warns of a general or unspecified danger associated with the main traffic sign.

70. Soft verge

This supplementary sign warns that the verge beside the roadway is soft or unstable.

71. Begin

This supplementary sign indicates the beginning of the section to which the main traffic sign applies.

72. End

This supplementary sign indicates the end of the section to which the main traffic sign applies.

73. School

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign relates to a nearby school.

74. Throughout the city

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies throughout the city.