The new blue ticket system allows police to fine cyclists over 16 for infractions that can be paid off, rather than being prosecuted, taken to court or just being given warnings. The red ticket system is still in effect for more serious violations.
Scrolling summary table in English:
Japan Bicycle Rules – Effective April 2026 (Blue Ticket System)
Quick reference table of common bicycle violations, how they are handled, and approximate fines.
| Category | Violation | Penalty Type | Fine (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Signals | Ignoring red light / flashing signal | Blue Ticket | ¥6,000 |
| Failing to stop at stop sign / stop line | Blue Ticket | ¥6,000 | |
| Railroad Crossings | Entering when alarm/barriers active | Blue Ticket | ¥7,000 |
| Failing to stop at crossing | Blue Ticket | ¥6,000 | |
| Brakes / Equipment | No or defective brakes (e.g. brakeless fixie) | Blue Ticket | ¥5,000 |
| Smartphone Use | Holding phone to talk / watch screen | Blue Ticket | ¥12,000 |
| Reckless Behavior | Wrong-way riding, ignoring pedestrian priority, reckless sidewalk riding | Blue Ticket | ¥5,000–¥7,000 |
| Lighting | No front light or rear reflector at night | Blue Ticket | ¥5,000 |
| Loads / Passengers | Carrying obstructive load, riding double (where prohibited) | Blue Ticket | Varies |
| Drunk Cycling | Riding under influence of alcohol | Criminal Case (Red Ticket) | Court fine / possible jail |
| Obstructive Driving | Deliberately blocking/endangering traffic | Criminal Case | Court fine / possible jail |
| Causing Accident | Violation leads to actual injury accident | Criminal Case | Court fine / possible jail |
- Blue Ticket = pay fixed penalty and avoid criminal record if paid by deadline.
- Serious offences (drunk riding, causing injury, refusing ID, etc.) are handled by criminal procedure.
- Repeated violations (2+ times within 3 years) may require attendance at a Mandatory Cyclist Training Course.
- Drivers’ licenses can be suspended if the offender holds a motor vehicle license and commits a serious bicycle offense.
Link to new rule book (Japanese only): https://www.npa.go.jp/news/release/2025/rulebook.pdf
by katobami