How hard is it to ride a bicycle in Japan

Posted by Sadao Sasaki on

Simon and Martina let us in on the interesting facts about riding a bicycle in Japan: 
1. Riding a bicycle intoxicated is prohibited.
2. You need to register with the local authority and present your ID and pay fee (about $5) to purchase a bicycle. If your bicycle is stolen, it can be easily tracked down.
3. It is illegal to ride a bicycle while carrying an open umbrella with one hand in the rain.
4. The bicycle must have a light while riding at night.
5. Park your bicycle only at a designated parking spot unless you want to get a ticket.
So there you have it. Owning a bicycle is a lot like owning a car in Japan.  This not-to-do list should come in handy for first-timers.