Cycling in Japan as a Foreigner: Rules, Registration, and Tips (2025)
Cycling in Japan is one of the great daily pleasures — until you get your bike impounded or fined for parking it in the wrong spot. The rules here are specific and enforced. This guide covers everything you need to ride freely and legally. Where to Buy a Bicycle New Bicycles Asahi (あさひ) — largest bicycle chain in Japan; good selection, reliable service Y’s Road — sports and commuter bikes Cycle Base DEPOT — budget-friendly Donki (Don Quijote) — very cheap basic bikes (¥10,000–18,000), decent for short term Ito Yokado, AEON — basic city bikes at reasonable prices Basic mamachari (city bike): ¥15,000–30,000 new Sports/road bike: ¥30,000–200,000+ ...