How to Read Japanese Traffic Markings
· GaimenGo Team
Road markings are just as important as signs. Here's how to decode them.
Road markings in Japan supplement traffic signs and provide critical information. Here's what you need to know.
Yellow Center Lines A solid yellow center line means no overtaking. A broken yellow line means overtaking is permitted when safe.
Stop Lines A thick white line with '止まれ' (tomare) means you must stop completely. You'll see these at intersections and railroad crossings.
Pedestrian Crossings Zebra crossings have thick white stripes. You must stop if a pedestrian is on or approaching the crossing.
Lane Arrows Painted arrows on the road indicate the direction of traffic in that lane. A straight arrow means you must go straight — no turns.
Bus Stop Zones Areas marked with yellow zigzag lines are bus stop zones. You cannot stop or park in these areas.