Parking Regulations

In Japan, there are strict regulations on where vehicles can be parked. Parking in prohibited areas will result in penalties, including fines.

Permissible Parking Areas

Coin-Operated Parking Lots

These parking lots charge parking fees based on time units, such as one hour, 15 minutes, or 30 minutes. Payment is made via a payment machine.

Parking Meters

On roads equipped with parking meters, you can park in designated areas within the specified time limits. Only 100 yen coins are accepted for payment. Parking beyond the specified time is considered illegal parking.

Paid Parking Lots

Parking lots attached to urban areas, department stores, or shopping centers. Some locations offer free or discounted parking for customers who shop there.

Tourist Attraction Parking Lots

Almost all major tourist attractions have parking lots. Some may charge a fee.

Prohibited Parking Areas

Monthly Parking Lots

Parking lots designated for contract holders only. Parking here without a contract is strictly prohibited.

No-Parking Zones

Parking a vehicle in no-parking zones will result in penalties.

How to Use Coin-Operated Parking Lots

Parking

Park your vehicle in an available parking space. After a certain period, a lock plate will rise.

Retrieving Your Vehicle

Before retrieving your vehicle, go to the payment machine to pay the parking fee. Confirm your parking space number. Enter the parking space number at the payment machine and press the "Settlement (Payment)" button. Payment can be made with bills and coins, and some machines accept credit cards. After payment, the lock plate will descend. Ensure the lock plate is fully down before retrieving your vehicle. If you exceed a certain time after payment, the lock plate will rise again. Retrieve your vehicle promptly.