Car parking in Japan can be challenging due to unique systems, limited space in urban areas, and specific regulations. Whether you’re visiting or residing in Japan, knowing the different parking options, costs, and regulations can save you time and money. This guide provides everything you need to know about car parking in Japan, from short-term coin parking to long-term solutions for residents.
What Are the Main Types of Car Parking in Japan?
1. Coin Parking (Time-based Parking Lots)
Coin parking, known as “時間貸し駐車場” (jikan gashi chūshajō), is widely available in cities, operating 24/7 on a pay-as-you-go basis. These lots are ideal for short-term parking, particularly in urban areas. Rates range from 100–500 yen per 15–30 minutes depending on location, with some lots offering daily caps or discounted night rates for overnight parking
Using Coin Parking:
- Park in an available space; a barrier will secure your vehicle.
- Note your space number and pay at the machine when ready to leave.
- Payment options include cash, credit cards, and IC cards like Suica and PASMO.
2. Monthly Parking Options in Japan
Monthly parking, or “月極駐車場” (tsukigime chūshajō), is tailored for residents who need regular access to parking near their home or workplace. Monthly fees in Tokyo range from 20,000–80,000 yen, while rural areas charge around 5,000–10,000 yen. Monthly contracts are generally handled through real estate agencies or parking companies.
Parking at Commercial Areas (Shopping Malls, Grocery Stores)
Many shopping malls and grocery stores provide limited-time free parking for customers, often requiring a purchase for validation. Malls may offer 1–3 hours of free parking, with fees applying after the free period
Best For: Short visits for shopping or errands. Be mindful of time limits and check if validation extends free parking.
Residential Parking Spaces in Japan
For residents, parking is often included in the rent or available for an additional fee. Proof of parking (車庫証明, shako shōmei) is required for car registration, ensuring that every vehicle has a designated parking space in crowded areas.
How Much Does Car Parking Cost in Japan?
The cost of parking varies significantly by location and duration.
Average Parking Rates in Major Cities vs. Rural Areas
- Urban Areas: In cities like Tokyo, short-term parking averages 100–500 yen per 15–30 minutes, with monthly parking ranging from 20,000 to 80,000 yen.
- Rural Areas: Rates are lower, typically around 50–100 yen per 30 minutes, with monthly contracts often costing 5,000–10,000 yen.
Long-term Parking Costs (Monthly Japan Parking Fees)
Monthly parking is a cost-effective option for residents who need daily access. Rates vary widely but are higher in central areas close to train stations or business districts.
How much is parking in japan cost?
Here’s a comprehensive comparison of typical parking rates across various Japanese cities:
| City | Coin Parking Rate per 15/30 Minutes | Monthly Parking Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | ¥100–¥500 per 15–30 minutes | ¥20,000–¥80,000 |
| Osaka | ¥100–¥400 per 15–30 minutes | ¥15,000–¥50,000 |
| Nagoya | ¥100–¥300 per 15–30 minutes | ¥10,000–¥40,000 |
| Yokohama | ¥100–¥400 per 15–30 minutes | ¥15,000–¥60,000 |
| Fukuoka | ¥100–¥300 per 15–30 minutes | ¥10,000–¥40,000 |
| Sapporo | ¥100–¥300 per 15–30 minutes | ¥10,000–¥35,000 |
| Kyoto | ¥100–¥400 per 15–30 minutes | ¥15,000–¥50,000 |
| Kobe | ¥100–¥400 per 15–30 minutes | ¥15,000–¥50,000 |
| Hiroshima | ¥100–¥300 per 15–30 minutes | ¥10,000–¥40,000 |
| Sendai | ¥100–¥300 per 15–30 minutes | ¥10,000–¥35,000 |
Tips for Saving Money on Parking in Japan
- Look for Early-Bird Discounts: Some lots offer discounts if you park early in the morning.
- Maximize Daily or Nightly Rates: Many parking facilities have a capped daily rate or cheaper night rates starting around 8 PM.
- Use Parking Apps to Find the Best Rates: Apps like NAVITIME and Times Car Parking allow you to find parking, check prices, and see real-time availability.
- Utilize Store or Mall Validation Programs: Many stores and malls offer free or discounted parking with a purchase, so look for validation options to save on short-term trips.
How to Pay for Parking in Japan?
Parking payments in Japan are convenient and offer several options.
Using Cash at Parking Meters
Insert cash at the machine, typically located near the entrance or exit. Most machines accept coins and 1,000-yen bills, though smaller lots may only take coins.
Paying with Credit Cards and IC Cards (Suica, PASMO)
In many urban facilities, you can pay with credit cards or IC cards like Suica and PASMO. Just tap your card on the designated reader.
Mobile Payment Options for Parking in Japan
Some parking facilities accept mobile wallets like PayPay and LINE Pay. Parking apps, such as NAVITIME, allow users to find spaces, check prices, and pay directly through the app.
What Are the Rules and Regulations for Parking in Japan?
Understanding Parking Signs and Markings:
- No Parking (駐車禁止, chūsha kinshi): Marked with a blue circle and red slash, indicating areas where parking is prohibited.
- No Stopping (停車禁止, teisha kinshi): Areas where vehicles cannot stop, even temporarily.
- Time-Limited Parking (時間制限駐車, jikan seigen chūsha): Indicates areas where parking is allowed for a limited time, usually specified on the sign.
- Reserved Parking (専用駐車場, sen’yō chūshajō): Reserved for specific vehicles, such as those owned by businesses or residents.
Want to avoid traffic violations while car parking in Japan? Check out our comprehensive guide to Japanese traffic laws for foreign drivers.
Consequences of Illegal Parking in Japan
Violating parking rules in Japan can lead to fines, towing, and points on your driving record. Fines range from 10,000 to 15,000 yen, and if your vehicle obstructs traffic, it may be towed, with additional impound fees required to retrieve it. Repeated violations can impact your driving record, so it’s essential to follow posted rules.
Here’s a table outlining common parking regulations in Japan, their corresponding signage, typical fines, and potential consequences:
| Regulation | Signage Description | Typical Fine Amount | Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Parking | Blue circle with a red border and a single red diagonal line | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | Possible towing; demerit points on license |
| No Stopping | Blue circle with a red border and two red diagonal lines forming an ‘X’ | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | Possible towing; demerit points on license |
| Reserved Parking | Sign indicating reservation, often with specific vehicle or permit information | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | Possible towing; demerit points on license |
| Time-Limited Parking | Sign indicating allowed parking times, e.g., “8:00–20:00” | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | Possible towing; demerit points on license |
| Parking in Front of Fire Hydrant | Sign indicating a fire hydrant, often accompanied by “No Parking” text | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | Possible towing; demerit points on license |
Bicycle Parking Rules and How They Differ from Car Parking in Japan
In Japan, bicycles also have designated parking rules. They differ from car regulations, focusing on keeping sidewalks and public pathways clear.
Designated Bicycle Parking Areas (駐輪場, chūrinjō)
Bicycles must be parked in designated areas near stations, shopping centers, or public buildings. Parking outside these areas is generally prohibited.
Illegal Bicycle Parking
Parking a bicycle in non-designated areas can lead to fines and even impoundment, with retrieval fees ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 yen.
Top 5 Tips for Finding Car Parking in Japan’s Busiest Cities
- Using Parking Apps to Locate Available Spaces: Apps like NAVITIME and Times Car Parking provide real-time data on availability, pricing, and the ability to reserve spots in some areas.
- Parking at Train Stations and Public Transportation Hubs: Parking near train stations offers long-term or daily rates, allowing convenient access to public transit.
- Navigating High-demand Parking Areas (e.g., Tokyo, Osaka): During peak hours, consider parking on the outskirts or in less popular areas and using public transit to reach your destination.
- How to Avoid Crowded Parking Times: Arriving early in the morning, late at night, or on weekdays can help avoid peak parking demand.
- Best Practices for Safe and Efficient Parking in Japan: Follow reverse parking customs, use mirrors in tight spaces, and park within marked lines to maintain traffic flow and safety.
How to Use Coin Parking in Japan?
- Park Your Car: Find an available spot, usually marked by a raised barrier under your vehicle.
- Take Note of Your Parking Space Number: The space number will be required when making payment.
- Check the Rate and Duration Display: Most lots display the rates prominently, helping you calculate your costs.
- Paying for Your Parking: Go to the machine, enter your space number, and pay the fee using cash, credit, or an IC card.
- Exit the Lot: After payment, the barrier will lower, allowing you to drive out.
How Coin Parking Rates Are Calculated
Coin parking rates vary, generally charging per 15 or 30 minutes. Many lots offer daily caps or reduced night rates.
Tips for Using Coin Parking Efficiently
- Use parking apps to compare rates.
- Set a timer to avoid overstaying
- Choose off-peak times for lower rates.
What Are the Best Parking Apps in Japan?
NAVITIME – Real-time Parking Locator
NAVITIME offers real-time availability, price comparisons, and route guidance, making it useful for busy cities.
Times Car Parking App
Times Car Parking lists thousands of parking facilities across Japan, including reservation options and membership benefits.
We would also recommend akippa Which Connects drivers with private parking spaces in residential areas. Basically an Airbnb for parking.
Can You Park for Free in Japan? Top Free Parking Tips
In rural towns, free parking is often available near train stations, community centers, or roadside stations (道の駅, michi-no-eki), which offer basic amenities for travelers.
Free Parking Options at Parks and Public Attractions
Some national parks, scenic spots, and tourist sites provide free or low-cost parking to encourage tourism.
Hidden Costs and Risks of Free Parking
Free parking lots may lack security or have limited availability, so avoid leaving valuables in your car and check any restrictions.
If you’re considering long-term parking, you may also be in the market for a car! Check out our Ultimate Guide to Buying Cars in Japan for all the details.
Why Do People Reverse Park in Japan?
Reverse parking, or back-in parking, is common in Japan for its safety advantages and efficiency, especially in tight spaces. It allows drivers to exit facing forward, improving visibility and reducing traffic obstructions.
Situations When Reverse Parking is Mandatory:
- Reverse parking is required in some commercial and public facilities, as well as certain residential or business parking lots.
How to Perfect Reverse Parking in Tight Japanese Spaces?
- Use mirrors
- Align carefully
- Make small corrections when reversing.
- Practicing in an empty lot can help a lot to improve your skills.
What Are the Best Long-term Parking Solutions in Japan?
Monthly Parking:
Monthly parking is convenient and cost-effective for residents needing consistent access. However, contracts often require upfront payment and may have minimum lease terms.
Renting a Personal Parking Spot in Urban Areas:
For guaranteed parking, especially in central areas, some residents rent private spaces through real estate agents, though prices can range from 20,000 to 80,000 yen.
Seasonal Parking Solutions for Tourists:
Some parking facilities near train stations and airports offer discounted seasonal rates, ideal for tourists exploring multiple regions.
What Are the Most Common Parking Challenges in Japan?
Limited Parking Availability in Urban Centers
In densely populated areas, parking spots are limited. Using parking apps and planning ahead can help figure out high-demand areas.
High Parking Fees in Prime Locations
Urban centers have some of the highest parking fees globally, particularly in business and shopping districts. Parking slightly outside these areas and using public transit is often cheaper.
Strict Parking Regulations and Risk of Fines
Violating regulations leads to fines, points on your driving record, and possible towing. Always follow signs and park in designated areas.
Navigating Small and Narrow Parking Spaces
Japanese parking spaces are narrower than in some countries. Reverse parking and using mirrors help avoid minor damages or obstruction.
Top 10 FAQs About Car Parking in Japan
Do I Need a Parking Space to Buy a Car in Japan?
Yes, proof of parking (車庫証明, shako shōmei) is required to register a car, ensuring all vehicles have a designated space.
Are There Parking Time Limits in Japan?
Yes, some areas have time restrictions, commonly indicated on signs. Coin parking lots also operate on a timed basis, with caps on total fees in some cases.
What Should I Do if I Get a Parking Ticket in Japan?
Pay the fine at the police station or specified bank, and contact the local police if the car was towed.
Can Foreigners Rent Monthly Parking Spaces in Japan?
Yes, foreigners can rent monthly parking spaces in Japan. Many agencies and parking companies provide language support, and most require identification and a lease agreement, often with a minimum rental term.
Are There Eco-Friendly Parking Options in Japan?
Yes, eco-friendly options are growing, with many parking facilities offering EV charging stations for electric vehicles. Some lots also incorporate green infrastructure, like solar panels, to reduce environmental impact.
How Does Night Parking Differ from Day Parking in Japan?
Night parking often comes with discounted rates due to lower demand. Many lots offer night rates (夜間料金, yakan ryōkin), usually starting around 8 PM, which can be significantly cheaper than daytime rates and ideal for those parking overnight.
Are Large Vehicles Difficult to Park in Japan?
Yes, parking larger vehicles like SUVs or vans can be challenging as many parking spaces are compact. Height and width restrictions are common, especially in multi-story garages, so it’s crucial to confirm size limitations before parking.
How Accessible is Parking for People with Disabilities?
Japan has designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities, marked as “障害者専用駐車場” (shōgaisha sen’yō chūshajō). These are usually located near entrances of public buildings, shopping centers, and hospitals. A permit may be required, so bring relevant documentation if needed.
Can I Reserve Parking in Advance?
Yes, apps like NAVITIME and Times Car Parking allow reservations in certain locations. This is particularly helpful in busy areas where parking fills up quickly, ensuring a guaranteed spot upon arrival.
What Are the Rules for Street Parking in Japan?
Street parking is generally restricted in Japan, especially in urban areas. Where permitted, time limits and fees are usually indicated by signage. In some residential areas, a local parking permit may be required, and no-parking zones are marked with signs like “駐車禁止” (chūsha kinshi).
