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parking

Parking in Japan

Coin parking, mechanical towers and hotel parking.

Japanese parking signs, lock-plate and gated car parks
Japanese parking signs, lock-plate and gated car parksPhoto: holioo.com

holioo.com Japan Drive Editorial TeamLast updated：2026.09.01Information checked：2026.09

Recognise P signs and coin parking

The most common type uses a flap lock: it rises after you park, and you pay at the machine by bay number before it lowers. You normally have a few minutes to leave after paying.

Japanese coin parking lot and rate board
Japanese coin parking lot and rate boardPhoto: holioo.com
  • Look for 最大料金 (maximum daily rate) — it can save a lot
  • Weekday and weekend rates often differ
  • Some lots charge separate overnight rates

Ground lock-plate parking

The ground plate rises after parking. Enter the bay number and pay before leaving, then verify the plate is fully down before moving the car.

Ground lock-plate parking bay in Japan
Ground lock-plate parking bay in JapanPhoto: holioo.com

Gated ticket parking

Take and keep the entry ticket. Pay at the machine or facility before exiting, then insert the ticket at the gate. Follow posted instructions for ETC parking.

Gated ticket parking in Japan
Gated ticket parking in JapanPhoto: holioo.com

Curbside parking meters

Use only clearly marked bays and pay as instructed during the signed hours. Overstaying or parking outside the markings can still be an offence.

Japanese curbside parking meter
Japanese curbside parking meterPhoto: holioo.com

Using the payment machine

Confirm your bay number or plate, select it at the machine and check the displayed vehicle before paying. Leave within the stated grace period.

Parking payment machine using a bay number
Parking payment machine using a bay numberPhoto: holioo.com

No-parking signs and street restrictions

Do not stop beneath no-parking signs. Legal restrictions also apply near hydrants, junctions, crossings, bus stops and yellow kerbs. Use official parking in cities.

Japanese no-parking sign
Japanese no-parking signPhoto: holioo.com

Shopping and convenience-store parking

These spaces are for customers during their visit, not as free parking for nearby sightseeing. Some malls validate parking against a purchase receipt.

Customer-only shopping and convenience-store parking
Customer-only shopping and convenience-store parkingPhoto: holioo.com

Reference sources

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About this page

We keep updating this collection of driving, rental, road, parking and itinerary information for Japan. When rules, facilities or spot details change, we revise the page.

Rules and fees can change. Always confirm the latest official information before you travel.

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