NORI NORI KYOTO · CYCLING GUIDE

Kyoto Cycling Rules & Etiquette

Bicycles are vehicles in Japan. Ride predictably, give pedestrians priority, and park only where bicycles are clearly allowed.

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When in doubt about ridingSlow down, get off and walk the bicycle.
When in doubt about parkingDo not leave the bicycle there. Find designated bicycle parking.
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The rules to remember

These are the rules and habits most important for visitors riding around Kyoto.

Ride on the left side of the road

Bicycles generally use the roadway and keep to the left. Follow bicycle lanes and road markings when they are provided.

Sidewalks are the exception

Use a sidewalk only when riding there is permitted or necessary. Ride slowly on the side nearer the roadway and stop if you would obstruct pedestrians.

Stop means stop

Obey traffic lights. At STOP signs, come to a complete stop, check both directions, and proceed only when it is safe.

No phone, headphones or umbrella

Do not use or look at a phone while riding. In Kyoto, do not ride with headphones that prevent you from hearing necessary sounds, and do not hold an umbrella while riding.

No alcohol or dangerous riding

Never ride after drinking alcohol. Do not ride side-by-side, and do not carry another adult on a single-seat bicycle.

Use your light at night

Turn on the front light after dark. Check that the light works before leaving the shop and make yourself visible to other road users.

Wear the free helmet

All bicycle users in Japan are expected to make an effort to wear a helmet. NoriNori provides one free with every rental.

Park only in designated bicycle parking

Do not leave a bicycle on streets, sidewalks, apartment entrances, private car parks, shopfronts, or at hotels where you are not staying. See the visual parking guide →

Walk the bike in crowded places

Around temple grounds, shrines, shopping streets and dense pedestrian areas, follow local signs and get off the bicycle when riding would inconvenience or endanger pedestrians.

If there is an accident

Stop immediately. Help anyone who is injured, call 110 for police or 119 for ambulance/fire when needed, and contact NoriNori as soon as possible.

Enforcement note: Since April 1, 2026, Japan’s traffic-infraction notice system (“blue tickets”) also applies to certain bicycle violations by riders aged 16 and over. Treat the bicycle as a vehicle and follow traffic rules throughout your ride.
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Based on current guidance from Japan’s National Police Agency, Kyoto Prefectural Police, and Kyoto City. Local signs and staff instructions always take priority.

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