The American Car Culture vs. Japanese Public Transportation
Many American families have at least one car they use daily for transportation. For such Americans, using public transportation is minimal or nonexistent. In contrast, Japanese people rely on the complex and accurate public transportation systems in their cities to reach schools, jobs, and other places. Even though many Japanese people do not own cars, Americans associate cars with the freedom to go where they want, whenever they want. Public transportation allows the Japanese to maintain the same level of freedom without needing a personal vehicle.
Table of Contents
Understanding Driving in Japan
Americans cannot drive in Japan with only a United States license and instead must go through the process of obtaining an International Driving Permit. If you plan to live in a rural area in Japan or need to drive for other reasons, you will have to secure your driver’s license in America first. After arriving in Japan, you’ll be required to take both a written and a driving test. Since the Japanese drive on the left side of the road, additional practice may be necessary. Attending a Japanese driving school is advisable for a smoother transition.
Do Japanese People Even Use Cars?
Most people residing in Japan live in urban areas. As a result, they have multiple forms of public transportation easily accessible, including buses and trains. For those living in rural areas, a car may be necessary due to the infrequent availability of public transport. These cars are subject to two different taxes.
Keisha cars, which are lighter and narrower, are generally cheaper than regular cars. These vehicles can be identified by their yellow license plate. For the small population living in rural areas, owning a car may be essential due to the lack of available public transportation in Japan. However, in urban locations, public transport is often more convenient. In densely populated areas like Tokyo, owning a car and paying for a parking space, sometimes mere blocks away from one’s home, can be costly and inefficient.
The Convenience of Public Transportation in Urban Areas
In general, the Japanese public transportation system predominates, especially in urban areas. People living in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto manage to get where they want without a car by utilizing bicycles, buses, and perfectly punctual trains. The question “Do you need a car in Japan?” often has a simple answer: for most urban residents, the answer is no.
Conclusion
As many residents in Japan prefer public transport to car ownership, it’s clear that the infrastructure supports a car-free lifestyle, particularly in urban environments. Interested in learning more about getting around Japan? Check back for part 2!
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