4 hours ago
Last Updated:October 30, 2025, 09:06 IST
Japan manages vehicles through a combination of strict regulations, advanced traffic management systems and a mandatory vehicle inspection system called Shaken.
Japan uses an advanced transport system. (Photo Credit: X)
Japan’s significant development over the years can be seen across its economic, technological and cultural evolution, transforming from a feudal society into a modern global powerhouse. Among all, one of the key departments where the country has worked for years is to develop a highly efficient and modern transportation system.
The country has developed a multi-layered approach that combines world-class public transport with advanced road management technologies and a highly disciplined driving culture, something that we might need to learn from them.
How Does Japan Manage Vehicles?
Japan manages vehicles through a combination of strict regulations, advanced traffic management systems, and a mandatory vehicle inspection system called Shaken. These regulations are designed to ensure road safety, minimise environmental impact and manage traffic flow effectively.
Taking to X, an Indian Techie recently shared his observations from his recent trip to Japan about how the country efficiently manages its traffic flow. He penned down seven important points that India needs to implement in order to become a developed nation.
No congestion or long halts, even during peak hours, perfectly managed traffic.
Cars over 20 years old are scratchless and look brand new; new car purchases are generally discouraged as per our guide.
Every market has a multi-storey parking lot nearby, so no unnecessary road blocking by parked bikes or cars.
No signboards, political posters, or ads on lamp posts and roadsides. Every street has LED lights, all working.
No street food carts, vegetable vendors, auto-rickshaws, or e-rickshaws.
Absolutely no dirt, resulting in fresh air, clean buildings and spotless cars. Top-grade landscaping.
Separate, commonly used lanes for bicycles
Japan – Noticed a few things on the way to a meeting in Tokyo:✅ No congestion or long halts even during peak hours, perfectly managed traffic.✅ Cars over 20 years old are scratchless and look brand new; new car purchases are generally discouraged as per our guide.✅ Every… pic.twitter.com/UhdaaIr4Y6
— Sunderdeep – Volklub (@volklub) October 28, 2025
Visitors Can’t Help But Praise Japanses Traffic System
The clip prompted several reactions, with many praising Japan’s Traffic System. An X user wrote, “All of this while also being the most populous city in the world. And here people keep blaming the population of Indian cities for their degrading infrastructure." Another one commented, “Visited last year and I was also surprised walking on Tokyo roads in peak morning hours, as there was not much traffic. Crossing the busiest road was like a cakewalk." One of them wrote, “Everyone has civic sense. From a toddler to an old person, everyone takes care of cleanliness."
Japan’s Traffic System – ETC and VICS
To manage the traffic flow, Japan uses an advanced Intelligent Transport System (ITS) for traffic management. These include;
ETC (Electronic Toll Collection): A system for automatic toll payment that eliminates congestion at toll booths.
VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System): It provides real-time traffic information to drivers through car navigation systems to help them avoid congestion.
Together, both ETC and VICS produce a comprehensive traffic management environment that significantly reduces delays, congestion and makes travel safer and more predictable, particularly on congested routes and urban roads.
Japan’s Strict Driving Rules
The country follows strong traffic rules that prioritise safety, such as mandatory seat belts, strict drink-driving laws and road-use guidelines that all vehicles and pedestrians must adhere to.
Other rules include: stopping at the traffic signals, obeying the speed limit, coming to a complete stop at railroad crossings and stopping for pedestrians at crosswalks.
Like India, Japan uses left-hand traffic with the driver’s seat on the right side of the vehicle.
Follow News18 on Google. Get the latest updates on car and bike launches in India — including reviews, prices, specs, and performance. Stay informed with breaking auto industry news, EV policies, and more. You can also download the News18 App to stay updated.
Location :
Delhi, India, India
First Published:
October 30, 2025, 07:30 IST
News auto Indian Techie Visits Japan, And He's Impressed — Here's All About Their 'Technique' That Wows Foreigners
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Read More
