Starting April 1, 2026, a “Blue Ticket (Traffic Violation Notification System)” will be introduced for bicycle traffic violations, making payment of fines mandatory. This will result in stricter enforcement of violations such as ignoring traffic lights and using smartphones by drivers aged 16 and over.
Major Violations and Fines (Effective April 2026)
There are 113 types of violations. Some examples include:
Using a mobile phone while driving (using a smartphone) ¥12,000 / Running a traffic signal ¥6,000 / Violating traffic divisions (driving on the right, driving the wrong way, etc.) ¥6,000 / Ignoring a stop sign ¥5,000 / Entering a railroad crossing ¥6,000 / Driving without lights ¥5,000 / Using earphones or driving with an umbrella ¥5,000 / Driving a car without a parallel line (driving side by side) ¥3,000 / Riding with a passenger ¥3,000
Serious Violations (Red Tickets)
Drunk driving, obstructive driving (tailgating), or other violations that result in a traffic accident are subject to a “red ticket” rather than a blue ticket, and may result in criminal penalties (imprisonment or fines).
Drunk driving: Imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to 1 million yen.
Things to note in Kyoto
Riding on the sidewalk: As a general rule, ride on the left side of the road. You can only ride on the sidewalk when designated, and even then, you must drive slowly to give pedestrians the right of way.
Street parking: Street parking is strictly restricted in Kyoto City, and abandoned bicycles will be removed. A storage fee of 3,500 yen is required to return the bicycle.
Cycle on the left side of the road. Stay on the left side of the road, and follow the arrow markers on the road indicating where and in which direction to cycle. Do not cycle against the flow of traffic.
Pedestrians have priority on sidewalks. “Bicycles permitted on sidewalk” signs mean you may cycle on the sidewalk while giving pedestrians priority. Cycle carefully and slowly past pedestrians.
Stop at intersections. Accidents are common at intersections.Stop at intersections to make sure it’s safe.
Wear a helmet. Both adults and children should wear helmets.
Cycling without a cycle light. At night, make your presence known to others with lights and reflective devices.
Carrying an open umbrella. Carrying an umbrella throws off your balance and leads to crashes. On rainy days, wear rain gear.
Using a phone while cycling. Using your phone and cycling while distracted is dangerous not only for you, but for those around you.
Cycling with two people on one bicycle. You are likely to lose your balance, landing your passenger or others in an accident.
Cycling under the influence of alcohol. Cycling under the influence of alcohol impedes judgment and leads to accidents.
Wearing headphones. Cycling with headphones on makes you unaware of your environment.
Cycling side-by-side. Cycle in a single-file line and look forward.
Bicycles parked on public roads may be removed.This will result in a removal and storage fine of 3,500 yen per a bicycle. This is heavily enforced over almost the entire city,including roads and parks.Use bicycle parking close to your destination.
For more information about bicycle parking, click here