Previously I?ve written about driving in Japan and how to obtain or even renew a Japanese driver?s license.
But if you?re a tourist in Japan, that information probably isn’t very interesting.
If you want to drive as a tourist in Japan, you obviously need some kind of driving permit.

It goes without saying that you cannot drive legally in Japan with your home country?s driver?s license! But be aware, the kind of driving permit you need to obtain differs depending on your nationality.
So, check carefully before travelling to Japan.

 
What do you need in order to drive in Japan legally"
No matter where you’re from, you’ll need your passport and the driver’s license issued in your home country.

In addition to that, you need one more document. Depending on your nationality that’s either an IDP or a translation. Most nationalities can simply drive on an international driving permit (IDP) in Japan.

You have to obtain one before you visit Japan, it cannot be issued within Japan.

In most cases you can obtain it at your local automobile association. It’s really simple.
However, if you?re a citizen of Belgium, France, Germany, Monaco, Slovenia, Switzerland or Taiwan, you are NOT allowed to drive legally in Japan on an IDP! That’s because Japan only accepts international driving permits that are based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Don’t despair!

You still can drive legally in Japan, but you need a different approach.

Ins...