Kanazawa, JapanTips for Expats Driving in Kanazawa
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Kanazawa.
1. Understanding the Driving Rules
Driving in Kanazawa, like the rest of Japan, is on the left side of the road. The rules are strictly enforced, and you should familiarize yourself with them before getting behind the wheel. Speed limits are generally lower than in many Western countries, and traffic lights may be positioned in different locations than you're used to. Also, be aware that there are many cyclists and pedestrians, so always be vigilant.
2. Car Recommendation
Compact cars are recommended for driving in Kanazawa due to the narrow roads and limited parking spaces. They are also more fuel-efficient, which can help save on gas costs. If you plan on exploring the mountainous regions around Kanazawa, consider a car with good handling and power.
3. Parking in Kanazawa
Finding parking in Kanazawa can be challenging, especially in the city center. Many places require you to pay for parking, and it can be quite expensive. However, some shopping centers offer free parking for customers. It's advisable to research parking options before your journey.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Japan with an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year. However, the IDP must be obtained in your home country before coming to Japan. After one year, you will need to obtain a Japanese driver's license.
5. Obtaining a Japanese Driver's License
If you have a driver's license from your home country, you may be able to convert it to a Japanese license. This process involves providing necessary documents, passing a written test, and possibly a driving test. The requirements can vary depending on your home country, so it's best to check with the local driving license center or the Japan Automobile Federation.
6. Be Prepared for Traffic
Like any city, Kanazawa can have heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Plan your journeys accordingly and allow extra time for travel. Also, be aware that many streets in Kanazawa are narrow and winding, which can be challenging for those used to driving on wider roads.
7. Use of Navigation Systems
Most cars in Japan come equipped with GPS navigation systems, which can be very helpful for finding your way around. However, they may be in Japanese, so it's a good idea to learn some basic navigation terms or consider getting a bilingual system.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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