11 Tips for Cyclists New to Tokyo

If you've recently arrived in Tokyo and are about to venture out on the road on your bicycle, here is a list of quick tips to get you up to speed and cycling safely.

1. When cycling on the road always cycle on the left, don't argue just do it.
2. Obey the rules of the road as if you were driving a vehicle.
3. Don't run red lights but expect cars to rush through the intersection on orange and fresh reds, especially taxis.
4. Don't get doored. Ride a safe distance from parked cars taking the lane if necessary. Beware of delivery vehicles whose drivers often exit their vehicles in a hurry without looking.
5. Beware of taxi's as they tend to pull into and out of traffic giving little or no warning. Also look out for automatically opening taxi doors.
6. Wet manhole covers and freshly painted road markings are slippery, as are rail lines and metal plates used to cover road works during the day.
7. Don't jump from the road to the sidewalk and back without looking. Choose where you're comfortable riding and stick with that choice.
8. If you choose to ride on the sidewalks ride slowly and respect pedestrians.
9. When parking your bicycle on the sidewalk do not let it block pedestrians.
10. Register your bicycle, its compulsory but there are no penalties for not doing so. Being registered will help you avoid awkward situations with the police and helps you prove ownership if your bicycle is stolen or impounded.
11. Lock your bicycle no matter its worth. Japanese bicycle thieves are opportunistic and go for easy, unlocked, targets.

The best way to learn how to cycle in Tokyo is to observe the cyclists around you, you'll soon learn what is socially acceptable and what isn't. But I advise you pass your own common sense filter over your observations because there are many practises in which Japanese cyclists engage that they deem acceptable, but may challenge your own view on personal safety.

When all else fails simply exercise some common sense, and ride safely.