27. MOTORCYCLE IN JAPAN

RENT A MOTORCYCLE IN JAPAN

If you're planning to rent a motorcycle in Japan, here are the essential requirements, best rental options, and important rules for foreign riders.

🏍️ License & Translation

📌 License Translation

✔ Before renting a motorcycle, you need an official translation of your French license into Japanese.
✔ This translation is issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).
✔ Alternatively, you can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.

📑 Motorcycle License Categories in Japan

✔ In Japan, an A2 license is considered "full", meaning there are no restrictions, and you can ride motorcycles of any size.

🔍 Best Motorcycle Rental Sites

✔ Rental 819 → A popular and reliable network with locations throughout Japan.
✔ Yamaha XSP → Rent directly from a Yamaha dealership.

📍 Tip: Check for the nearest branch to your location for convenience.

💰 Pricing & Payment

✔ Prices vary depending on the motorcycle type and rental duration.
✔ Example: A Yamaha MT07 or MT09 costs around €300 for 4 days.
✔ Rates may differ based on the region and length of rental.

📌 Payment
✔ A physical credit card is required for payment.
✔ Make sure your card is accepted by the rental agency before booking.

⚠️ Restrictions for Foreigners

✔ Some rental agencies do not rent to non-residents.
✔ Confirm this in advance to avoid any issues..

🚦 Important Road Rules & Safety Tips

✔ No lane splitting (interfile) is officially allowed, but it is tolerated if done safely and prudently.
✔ Some roads are restricted for motorcycles – always check before planning your route.
✔ Yellow line zones → Strictly no overtaking!
✔ Always wear proper riding gear – police checks can happen, especially on expressways.

📌 Highway & Toll Roads
✔ Some expressways allow motorcycles, but specific routes may have restrictions.
✔ Most rental bikes come with an ETC card, making toll payments easier.

🏍️ Where to Buy Motorcycle Gear in Japan

✔ NAPS → One of the biggest motorcycle gear stores in Japan.
✔ UpGarage → Good for second-hand gear and bike parts.

📲 Join the Community!

✔ Facebook Group → Gaijin Riders (Great for expat riders in Japan).
✔ Reddit → r/rideinjapan (For route recommendations & tips).
✔ Blog → Motorcycle Paradise (Detailed road trips & riding tips in Japan).

Routes maps from Warren, Motorcycle paradise https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1NWGYKwvGBawm0GyOLabd1CY_umk&femb=1&ll=34.383392222119205%2C133.39500749201167&z=5