Warning signsJapan
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Japan
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Additional signsWarning signs
A warning sign is a traffic sign that alerts drivers to a potential danger or change in road conditions ahead, giving them enough time to slow down and react safely. These signs warn about hazards such as sharp bends, pedestrian crossings, slippery surfaces, merging traffic, animals on the road, or upcoming intersections. Their purpose is not to forbid or command anything, but simply to prepare drivers for situations that require extra attention.
How should I recognise hazard warnings in Japan?
Warning signs announce dangers or situations requiring attention before the road user reaches them.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — Traffic Lights and Road Signs, official English definitions
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — traffic instruction handbook, sign groups and road use; read with current Act
How should I react to a pedestrian warning in Japan?
Reduce speed, look along both sides of the road and be ready to stop. The warning identifies a pedestrian hazard ahead; children, people with limited mobility or others may enter the road unexpectedly.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — Traffic Lights and Road Signs, official English definitions
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — traffic instruction handbook, sign groups and road use; read with current Act
Does a traffic-lights-ahead warning require an immediate stop in Japan?
No. A warning sign is not an automatic STOP instruction and does not create a new numerical speed limit. Reduce speed when necessary, look for a queue or a concealed signal, and obey the traffic lights and any separate speed or stop signs.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — Traffic Lights and Road Signs, official English definitions
🔗 npa.go.jp • NPA — traffic instruction handbook, sign groups and road use; read with current Act
1. Give way
This traffic sign means give way. Slow down and give way to traffic that has priority. Stop if necessary and proceed only when it is safe.
English • Traffic sign 330-B • Stop. Stop completely immediately before the stop line or, if none exists, immediately before the junction. Proceed without obstructing traffic on the intersecting road.
日本語 • 330-B • 一時停止。 停止線の直前で完全に停止してください。停止線がない場合は交差点の直前で停止し、交差する道路の交通を妨げないように進んでください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
🔗 Npa.go.jp • 警察庁、交通規制基準（令和8年3月16日改正）、PDF 153ページ
SVG source: Eastwind41 • Public domain • Original revision 2017-11-24. Wikimedia original unmodified.
2. Warning for an uncontrolled crossroad
This traffic sign indicates a warning for an uncontrolled crossroad. An intersection without traffic signals or signs assigning priority lies ahead. Reduce speed, watch for traffic approaching from other directions and follow the applicable local priority rules.
English • Traffic sign 201-A • Crossroads ahead. Watch crossing traffic and reduce speed to pass safely.
日本語 • 201-A • 十字形道路交差点あり。 この先に十字形の交差点があります。交差する交通に注意し、安全に通過できる速度に落としてください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
3. Warning for a side road from the left
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a side road from the left. A side road joins the road ahead from the left at an uncontrolled junction. Reduce speed, watch for traffic entering from the side road and follow the applicable default priority rules.
English • Traffic sign 201-B • Side road on the left. Watch traffic from the left.
日本語 • 201-B • 左側に交差道路あり。 この先で左側から道路が交差します。左側からの交通に注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
4. Warning for a roundabout
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a roundabout. A roundabout lies ahead. Reduce speed and follow the applicable priority signs, traffic signals and local roundabout rules when approaching and entering it.
English • Traffic sign 201の2 • Roundabout ahead. Observe the junction layout and traffic, and follow local restrictions.
日本語 • 201の2 • ロータリーあり。 この先にロータリーがあります。交差点の形状や交通に注意し、現地の規制に従ってください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
5. Warning for a curve to the left
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a curve to the left. A left-hand bend lies ahead. Reduce speed before entering the curve, maintain your lane position and use smooth steering.
English • Traffic sign 202 • Left-hand bend. Adjust speed before entering.
日本語 • 202 • 左方屈曲あり。 この先に左カーブがあります。カーブに入る前に速度を調整してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
6. Warning for a sharp curve to the left
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a sharp curve to the left. A tight left-hand bend lies ahead. Reduce speed before entering the curve, remain within your lane and use smooth steering.
English • Traffic sign 203 • Sharp left-hand bend. Slow down sufficiently before proceeding.
日本語 • 203 • 左方屈折あり。 この先に急な左カーブがあります。十分に減速してから進んでください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
7. Warning for a double curve, first left then right
This traffic sign indicates a warning for successive curves, with the first curve to the left. Reduce speed before entering the winding section, maintain your lane position and be prepared for further changes in direction.
English • Traffic sign 204 • Double bend, first to the left. Successive bends begin to the left.
日本語 • 204 • 左背向屈曲あり。 この先に連続するカーブがあり、最初は左に曲がります。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
8. Warning for curves
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a series of curves. One or more changes in direction lie ahead and may occur in quick succession. Reduce speed before entering the winding section, maintain your lane position and use smooth steering.
English • Traffic sign 206 • Winding road, first to the left. Adjust speed to visibility and road layout.
日本語 • 206 • 左つづら折りあり。 この先に曲がりくねった道路が続き、最初は左に曲がります。見通しと道路形状に合わせて速度を調整してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-20. Wikimedia original unmodified.
9. Warning for a road narrowing
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a road narrowing. The available width of the road or carriageway decreases ahead. Reduce speed, maintain sufficient lateral clearance and watch carefully for approaching or adjacent traffic.
English • Traffic sign 212 • Road width decreases. Watch clearance from oncoming vehicles.
日本語 • 212 • 幅員減少。 この先で道路の幅が狭くなります。対向車との間隔に注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
10. Warning for a road narrowing on the left
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a road narrowing on the left. The available road width decreases from the left side ahead. Reduce speed, follow the lane markings and maintain sufficient clearance from other traffic and the road edge.
English • Traffic sign 211 • Lane reduction. The left lane ends ahead. Check surrounding traffic and change lanes with a safe gap.
日本語 • 211 • 車線数減少。 この先で左側の車線がなくなります。周囲を確認し、安全な間隔を確保して車線を移ってください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
11. Warning for a road with two-way traffic
This traffic sign indicates a warning for two-way traffic. Oncoming traffic will use the same road or carriageway ahead. Keep to the correct side of the road and overtake only where it is permitted and clearly safe.
English • Traffic sign 212の2 • Two-way traffic. Keep left and watch oncoming vehicles on the road ahead.
日本語 • 212の2 • 二方向交通。 この先は対向交通のある道路になります。対向車に注意して左側を通行してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
12. Warning for a bad road surface
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a bad or uneven road surface. Potholes, bumps, depressions or other surface irregularities may affect vehicle stability and braking. Reduce speed and avoid sudden manoeuvres.
English • Traffic sign 209の3 • Uneven road surface. Reduce speed and watch vehicle movement and tyre contact with the surface.
日本語 • 209の3 • 路面凹凸あり。 この先の路面に凹凸があります。速度を落とし、車両の揺れや接地状態に注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
13. Warning for a steep ascent
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a steep ascent. A steep uphill gradient lies ahead and may cause heavy or low-powered vehicles to lose speed. Select a suitable gear, maintain a safe following distance and be prepared for slower traffic.
English • Traffic sign 212の3 • Steep ascent: 10%. Select a speed and gear suitable for road conditions.
日本語 • 212の3 • 上り急勾配あり：10％。 この先に勾配10％の急な上り坂があります。道路状況に適した速度とギアを選んでください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
14. Warning for a steep descent
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a steep descent. A steep downhill gradient lies ahead and the vehicle may gain speed quickly. Reduce speed before the descent, select a suitable gear and use engine braking where appropriate. Allow extra distance for heavy or towing vehicles.
English • Traffic sign 212の4 • Steep descent: 10%. Use an appropriate gear to avoid excessive speed.
日本語 • 212の4 • 下り急勾配あり：10％。 この先に勾配10％の急な下り坂があります。速度が上がりすぎないよう、適切なギアを使ってください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
15. Warning for traffic lights ahead
This traffic sign indicates a warning for traffic lights ahead. Traffic signals are located ahead and may not be visible early enough without advance warning. Reduce speed and be prepared to stop if the signal requires it.
English • Traffic sign 208の2 • Traffic signals ahead. Check the signal and be ready to stop if necessary.
日本語 • 208の2 • 信号機あり。 この先に信号機があります。信号を確認し、必要に応じて停止できるようにしてください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
16. Warning for falling rocks
This traffic sign indicates a warning for falling rocks. Rocks or stones may fall from nearby slopes or may already be lying on the road. Reduce speed, scan the road ahead and be prepared to avoid or stop for fallen material.
English • Traffic sign 209の2 • Falling rocks. Check the surroundings and surface for falling rocks or stones already on the road.
日本語 • 209の2 • 落石のおそれあり。 この先では落石や路面に落ちている石に注意が必要です。周囲と路面をよく確認してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2015-05-27. Wikimedia original unmodified.
17. Warning for roadworks
This traffic sign indicates a warning for roadworks. Construction or maintenance work is taking place on or beside the road. Reduce speed where necessary and be prepared for workers, machinery, temporary traffic signals, changed lane layouts or uneven road surfaces.
English • Traffic sign 213 • Roadworks. Watch workers, construction vehicles and changes to traffic arrangements.
日本語 • 213 • 道路工事中。 この先で道路工事や作業が行われています。作業員、工事車両、通行方法の変更に注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2021-10-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.
18. Warning for a slippery road surface
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a slippery road surface. The road ahead may provide reduced tyre grip because of water, ice, mud, oil or another surface condition. Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering movements.
English • Traffic sign 209 • Slippery surface. Avoid harsh braking or sudden steering.
日本語 • 209 • すべりやすい。 この先は路面がすべりやすい場所です。急ブレーキや急なハンドル操作を避けてください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
19. Warning for strong crosswinds
This traffic sign indicates a warning for strong crosswinds. Side winds may suddenly affect vehicle stability and steering. Reduce speed, keep a firm but controlled grip on the steering wheel and take extra care with high-sided vehicles, motorcycles and trailers.
English • Traffic sign 214 • Crosswinds. Strong side winds may occur; watch vehicle instability and adjust speed.
日本語 • 214 • 横風注意。 この先では強い横風のおそれがあります。車両のふらつきに注意し、速度を調整してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
20. Warning for a side road merging with the main road
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a side road merging with the main road. Traffic from a side road joins the traffic flow ahead. Stay alert, maintain a safe gap and adjust your speed when necessary to allow traffic to merge safely.
English • Traffic sign 210 • Merging traffic. Vehicles join from the left ahead. Watch their movements.
日本語 • 210 • 合流交通あり。 この先で左側から交通が合流します。合流する車両の動きに注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
21. Warning for crossing deer
This traffic sign indicates a warning for crossing deer. Deer or other wild animals may enter the road unexpectedly, especially around dawn or dusk. Reduce speed, watch the roadside carefully and be prepared for more than one animal to cross.
English • Traffic sign 214の2 • Animals may emerge. Deer or other animals may suddenly enter the road. Check the surroundings and be prepared.
日本語 • 214の2 • 動物が飛び出すおそれあり。 この先ではシカなどの動物が道路に飛び出すおそれがあります。周囲を確認し、急な出現に備えてください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
22. Warning for children
This traffic sign indicates a warning for children. Children may be present on or near the road and may cross unexpectedly. Reduce speed, scan both sides of the road carefully and be prepared to stop.
English • Traffic sign 208 • School, nursery or kindergarten nearby. Reduce speed and watch carefully for children.
日本語 • 208 • 学校、幼稚園、保育所等あり。 この先に学校、幼稚園、保育所などがあり、子どもの通行に注意が必要です。速度を落として周囲をよく確認してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2021-10-12. Wikimedia original unmodified.
23. Warning for trams
This traffic sign indicates a warning for trams. Tram tracks cross or run along the road ahead, and trams may enter the traffic path. Reduce speed, watch carefully for approaching trams and follow the applicable traffic signals, priority signs and local rules.
English • Traffic sign 207-B • Railway crossing ahead. The electric-train symbol also warns of a level crossing; it does not refer only to trams.
日本語 • 207-B • 踏切あり。 この先に踏切があります。電車の図柄も踏切を予告するもので、路面電車だけを示す標識ではありません。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
24. Warning for a railway crossing without barriers
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a railway crossing without barriers. It alerts drivers to an upcoming level crossing where railway tracks cross the road and no barriers or gates are present to stop traffic. Drivers should slow down and look both ways for trains.
English • Traffic sign 207-A • Railway crossing ahead. Watch for trains, signals and barriers.
日本語 • 207-A • 踏切あり。 この先に踏切があります。列車や踏切の信号、遮断機に注意してください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧
SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-19. Wikimedia original unmodified.
25. Warning for a railway crossing with one track
This traffic sign indicates a warning for a railway crossing with one track. It alerts drivers to a level crossing where a single railway track crosses the road. Drivers should approach with caution and be prepared to stop, even if no barriers or warning lights are active.
English • Traffic sign Railway facility · crossing warning • Railway crossbuck. The yellow and black cross indicates a level crossing. Watch the tracks and trains and obey crossing warnings and barriers.
日本語 • 鉄道施設 · 踏切警標 • 踏切のクロスマーク。 黄色と黒色の十字形の警標は、踏切の存在を示します。線路や列車に注意し、踏切の警報や遮断機の指示に従ってください。
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Courts.go.jp • 裁判所公開判決、PDF 13ページ（黄黒の板2枚を交差させた警標の記述）
🔗 Jtsb.mlit.go.jp • 運輸安全委員会、鉄道事故調査報告書、PDF 8ページ（踏切クロスマークの例）
SVG source: User:Fry1989 • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-16. Wikimedia original unmodified.
