Starting in April 2026, fines will be imposed or enforced for the following traffic offences related to bicycles. Some of the offences, when coupled with other violations, can also lead to being told to go to mandatory (paid) bicycle safety enforcement courses.
| Offense | Description | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Use | Operating or looking at a smartphone screen while riding. | ¥12,000 |
| Railroad Crossing Violation | Entering a crossing while the barriers are down or the alarm is sounding. | ¥7,000 |
| Ignoring Traffic Signals | Failing to stop at a red light or ignoring flashing signals. | ¥6,000 |
| Wrong-Way Riding | Cycling on the right side of the road (against the flow of traffic). | ¥6,000 |
| Improper Sidewalk Use | Riding at speeds that endanger pedestrians or failing to yield. | ¥6,000 |
| Disregarding Stop Signs | Failing to come to a complete stop at a designated stop sign (tomare). | ¥5,000 |
| No Headlights at Night | Riding without a front light or rear reflector after dark. | ¥5,000 |
| Defective Brakes | Riding a bicycle with broken brakes or a fixed-gear bike without dual brakes. | ¥5,000 |
| Umbrella/Earphone Use | Riding while holding an umbrella or wearing headphones/earphones. | ¥5,000 |
| Riding Side-by-Side | Cycling parallel to another rider where not explicitly permitted. | ¥3,000 |
| Carrying Passengers | Having two people on a single-seat bicycle (excluding small children in seats). | ¥3,000 |
by dougwray