World News
Japan reduces speed limit to 30 km/h on narrow residential roads
The nationwide policy halves the previous default limit on streets lacking center lines to curb pedestrian casualties.
The short version
- Japan lowered the default speed limit on narrow residential streets from 60 km/h to 30 km/h.
- The regulation targets approximately 870,000 kilometers of roads without center lines or median strips, representing roughly 70% of general roads.
- Officials introduced the policy to address stagnant accident rates among children and elderly pedestrians on residential streets.
- Authorities are monitoring driver compliance across nationwide municipal and urban street networks.
Key facts
- The speed limit on narrow roads without center lines or median strips was reduced from 60 km/h to 30 km/h.[The Guardian]
- The rule covers roads narrower than 5.5 meters, which comprise about 870,000 kilometers or 70% of Japan's general roads.[The Guardian]
- National Police Agency figures show annual traffic deaths among children and older people on residential streets remained around 300 since 2021 and rose in 2025, despite broader national traffic fatalities dropping to a record low of 2,457.[The Guardian]
- According to National Police Agency data, pedestrian mortality rates in collisions are under 1% at or below 30 km/h, compared to 17.4% at speeds between 50 and 60 km/h.[The Guardian]
Sources
- Japan halves speed limit to 30km/h on all narrow city streetsThe Guardian - World