RoadworksJapan

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Japan. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


32. Roadworks

Roadworks are construction, maintenance, repair or inspection activities carried out on or beside a road. They may temporarily change the road layout, lane widths, speed limits, priority, permitted directions and facilities for pedestrians or cyclists.

Drivers must follow the temporary signs, traffic lights, barriers, road markings and instructions from authorised personnel. They should reduce speed, increase their following distance and remain prepared for narrow lanes, stopped traffic, workers, machinery and sudden changes in the route.

Roadworks
Roadworks warning sign indicating works 500 metres ahead. (Japan)
Wikimedia.org • 運動会プロテインパワー • CC BY-SA
What should you watch for when approaching roadworks in Japan?

Look for temporary warnings, cones, barriers, narrow lanes and construction vehicles. Road layouts can change temporarily, including lane shifts, traffic-light control and short one-way sections. Expect workers and slow or stationary traffic near the worksite.

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • Japan Road Traffic Act — Articles 7–9, 17–43, 44–45 and 70: actual controls and safe circulation

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text

Is a temporary speed limit at roadworks binding in Japan?

Where an authorised temporary regulatory speed limit is in force, you must obey it. A roadworks warning alone should not be mistaken for a new numerical limit, but conditions may require driving more slowly.

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • Japan Road Traffic Act — Articles 7–9, 17–43, 44–45 and 70: actual controls and safe circulation

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text

What if only one lane remains open through roadworks in Japan?

Follow the temporary signals, stop/go instructions, lane arrows and priority signs. Do not enter an opposing traffic lane until permitted, and give vulnerable road users and road workers extra room.

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • Japan Road Traffic Act — Articles 7–9, 17–43, 44–45 and 70: actual controls and safe circulation

🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text

Warning for roadworks. Warning for roadworks.

English • Traffic sign 213 • Roadworks. Watch workers, construction vehicles and changes to traffic arrangements.

日本語 • 213 • 道路工事中。 この先で道路工事や作業が行われています。作業員、工事車両、通行方法の変更に注意してください。

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Laws.e-gov.go.jp • 道路標識、区画線及び道路標示に関する命令、別表第一・第二
🔗 Mlit.go.jp • 国土交通省、道路標識一覧

SVG source: Monaneko • Public domain • Original revision 2021-10-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.

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