In general, Japan is a very bike-friendly country, and as to be expected, most drivers, pedestrians and cyclists are extremely courteous.

In suburban areas, it’s not uncommon to see 3 on a single bicycle - Mum riding along with one kid in front and a bigger one behind.

Bicycles are everywhere and most suburban train stations have a sizeable bicycle parking lot.

Most tourist areas have rental bicycles for hire, though don’t expect anything flash. Rental places are usually found around train stations.

Children 12 & under must wear a helmet; by law, bicycles must be ridden on the road (though all the locals ride on the footpaths); and make sure to park in designated parking areas in cities.

Cycling around Japan

Touring Japan by bicycle is a definite possibility - especially in less congested regions such as Hokkaidō and Shikoku.