(Stripes Japan)
Drivers in mainland Japan and Okinawa, did you know that there is a law that regulates when you should honk the horn? If not, join the club.
Article 54 of Japan’s Road Traffic Act states the situations where you should and shouldn’t honk your car’s horn.
(Photo courtesy of photoAC)
DO honk your horn
According to the law, drivers using an intersection or a slope that does not have a clear view should use their horn to alert drivers on the intersectional road. Another time when drivers are encouraged to honk is when they reach a turn or the top of a slope.
In both cases mentioned above, the existence of a road sign (as indicated in the image) commanding the use of the horn is also a prerequisite.
Likewise, at intersections on mountainous or winding roads, drivers should be on the lookout for signs to honk horns to alert drivers in the oncoming direction. Either way, if the view isn’t clear, the safest bet is to honk your horn to caution other drivers.
DON’T honk your horn
Article 54 also says drivers shouldn’t press the horn unless in the situations described above. However, exceptions to the rule exist, including when alerting other drivers to avoid a collision or unsafe situations on the road.
On the other hand, there are times where aggressive use of the horn can be deemed as abuse or even “aori unten” (Japanese for road rage).
Theoretically, even using the horn with the good intent of warning a car from merging unsafely into the lane or of alerting a motorcyclist or cyclist on the roadway, can be taken as an abuse of the horn or a case of road rage depending upon situations or interpretations.
You may encounter drivers who use the horn for different purposes, such as giving the right of way to other drivers or expressing appreciation, etc. But that is most likely done with a quick honk, rather than a loud, full hold on the horn.
These days, many drivers give a quick flicker of headlights instead of a honk to give the right-of-way to others. This traffic etiquette is commonly called “passing.” Hazard lights are also in Japan to express gratitude or send messages to other drivers. Either way, it is preferable to complement your communications on the road with gestures and eye contact as well.
Avoid miscommunications, be cautious when using your car horn and only use it in emergency situations.
Honk if you’re looking for a fine and more troubles
According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, a failure to meet the obligations of blowing the horn is subject to a fine between 5,000 and 7,000 yen, while an abuse of the car horn is subject to a 3,000 yen fine.
Plus, if blowing a horn is considered road rage, it can risk imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 1 million yen (approx. $6,440), 35 penalty points, and loss of driving privileges for up to 10 years, according to the National Police Agency.
While honking your horn for nearly any reason is a standard practice in the States, keep in mind that the rules of the road are different in Japan and Okinawa. Drive safe!
