Why do japanese drive on the left

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Japanese drive on the left due to historical influences from the Edo period's traffic customs and British railway systems introduced in the 1870s. The practice was officially codified in 1924 with the Road Traffic Act, which mandated left-hand driving nationwide. Today, Japan remains one of approximately 76 countries and territories worldwide that follow left-hand traffic, accounting for about 35% of the world's population. This system has been consistently maintained despite post-World War II American occupation influences that introduced right-hand drive vehicles.

Key Facts

Japan officially mandated left-hand driving nationwide through the Road Traffic Act of 1924
Approximately 76 countries and territories worldwide drive on the left side of the road
Left-hand driving countries account for about 35% of the world's population
British railway engineers introduced left-hand traffic systems to Japan in the 1870s
The practice originated from Edo period (1603-1868) customs where samurai kept to the left to keep sword arms free

Overview

Japan's left-hand driving tradition has deep historical roots dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when samurai customarily walked on the left side of roads to keep their right hands free for drawing swords. This practice was formalized during the Meiji Restoration when Japan began modernizing its transportation infrastructure. In 1872, Japan's first railway between Tokyo and Yokohama was built with British assistance, adopting Britain's left-hand railway system. The Tokyo Police Department officially established left-hand traffic rules in 1870, and by 1924, the national Road Traffic Act made left-hand driving mandatory throughout Japan. During the American occupation after World War II (1945-1952), there was consideration of switching to right-hand driving to align with American vehicles, but the existing infrastructure and established practice led to maintaining the left-hand system. Today, Japan remains consistent with other left-driving nations like the United Kingdom, Australia, and India.

How It Works

Japan's left-hand traffic system operates through comprehensive regulations and infrastructure designed specifically for this orientation. All vehicles in Japan are manufactured with right-hand drive configurations, placing the steering wheel on the right side of the car. Road signs, traffic signals, and lane markings are positioned to accommodate left-side traffic flow, with overtaking typically occurring on the right. Pedestrian systems also follow this orientation, with escalators in most regions (except Osaka) having standing lanes on the left and walking lanes on the right. The system is enforced through Japan's Road Traffic Act, which specifies all driving must occur on the left side of roadways. Imported left-hand drive vehicles are permitted but must meet specific safety standards and display warning stickers. Traffic circles (roundabouts) circulate clockwise, opposite to right-driving countries, and highway entrance/exit ramps are designed for left-side merging patterns.

Why It Matters

Japan's left-hand driving system has significant practical and economic implications. The consistency in traffic orientation reduces accidents and improves road safety, with Japan maintaining one of the world's lowest traffic fatality rates at 2.5 deaths per 100,000 people (2022 data). The system supports Japan's automotive industry, which produces right-hand drive vehicles not only for domestic use but also for export to other left-driving markets. Tourism is affected as visitors from right-driving countries (about 65% of nations) require adjustment, though rental agencies provide guidance. Infrastructure costs would be enormous to switch systems, estimated at over ¥10 trillion ($70 billion) for road modifications alone. The system also reflects cultural continuity, preserving historical transportation patterns while supporting modern mobility needs in one of the world's most densely populated developed nations.