First of all thanks for this video! I I just bought a CBR400R today at a BIKE王 today. Everything you had in this video was on point. My jyu-min-hyo (住民票) was ~2 months old and they wouldn't accept it. Apparently it has so be less than 1 month old. My Japanese is basic JLPT N5 so the negotiation was pretty difficult, but I was able to ask what I needed to. The dealer was strict on the price, but I convinced them to put on a new chain and a few other maintenance items that I pointed out. I had a Japanese girl that I'm dating go with me to help with the paperwork and explaining things. Someone who can speak Japanese is a must! They quoted me 4 weeks before I can get the bike. Insane! Apparently they had 30 bikes to inspect in front of me. Also, I'm still on an international driving permit if anyone is wondering whether you can still buy a bike without a Japanese license. I won't have my Japanese license until ~3 months from now. I was told that they do accept credit cards, but I opted to pay 100% cash.
Cool! Nice choice of bike! I hope that you have fun riding in Japan! Thank you for sharing your experience too! I hope that it will help everyone else that watches this video!!!
@@team819s Hey 819S, do you happen to know any up to date websites that explain all of the "rules of the road" in Japan (in English) for motorcycles? Things like lane splitting, passengers, expressways, helmet ratings, protective gear, etc. There are some great PDF for driving cars in Japan, but not so much for motorcycles. I found one helpful website, but it must be ancient because it referenced things from 1993, which might be irrelevant nowadays. Thanks!
@@Soffex I looked around but I have the same experience as you. I don't know of anything that is up to date. I will let you know if I find something. I think that I will try writing that for my own website too though since it is not readily available. If there are any other topics (or specific questions) other than the ones you listed above, let me know and I will make sure to include them too.
Did you have to fill In the paper work yourself or did your girlfriend do it? I ask because I know how annoying it is for some people to write in japanese
@@team819s That will help alot of people looking for parts for old models like 90's era bikes with four cylinders. Also make a video on back model parts.
Very informative. I have a few questions. When you say dealer, do you mean both single brand and multi brand? Do only multi-brand dealers carry used bikes or do single brand dealers carry used bikes as well? If you need a bike serviced, which one should you go to?
Most dealers that I have been to in Japan have new and used bikes. Both multi and single brand. The used bike selection is often more limited at a single brand shop. If you are here, or , when you come; look around. It can vary from area to area!
Thank you very much for this! Hugely helpful. I'm moving to Tokyo in a few months and was planning to buy a bike as soon as I get settled and another 6 months in. One question that I don't believe was mentioned - do the dealers and city centre offices have English speakers? Or will I be relying on old faithful google translate?
Yeah. It is one of the reasons that I bought a 250. I don't need to get my bike inspected. If you stay on top of maintenance, it can be cheaper. I just wanted people to know what they could be in store for.
@@team819s very informative. Too bad it's such a hassle to have a bike in Japan. Back when i lived there i only had a car licence, would be nice to ride a bike if they ever open back up that is...
Thanks! It will depend on the dealer. You will most likely need one but check with your dealership. A hanko should not be too expensive to get and it will make your life easier in Japan.
Hey, thanks for the video this looks cool. I buy a lot of bikes in Japan from the auctions but I am going to Japan in April to find bikes directly from Junk Yards or dealers (if possible) can you recommend any good Junkyards to go to or how do I find them? Do you have any other advice? I look forward to hearing from you.
Hi, really informative video, helped me get some stuff together, searching for every bit of information can be a little tiresome at times. I do have a question though, what is the process if buying from a private party? I have all required documents mentioned in the video, I am just unsure where exactly to go to register the bike and if there is anything else I need? I currently have juminhyou, inkanshoumeisho(with hanko of course), and a residence card. I don't have my international license yet as I will get it in a few weeks in the mail from the U.S. Do you happen to know any info I am missing? Thanks in advance :D
@salgaf2364 I am glad that the video helped. I think you went too far with the inkanshomeisho. You do not need a registered inkan. The only time I used an inkanshomeisho was when I bought my house. How long have you been in Japan? An international license is only valid your first year in Japan. If you have been here more than a year, you need to convert your license to a Japanese one or go to driving school and get a license. When you buy from a private party, It will depend on how big the engine is. If if's 125 and under, you need either 廃車証明書 (hai sha shou mei sho) ”Certificate of vehicle disposal", OR jyoutoshoumeisho (jyou to shou mei sho) "Certificate of Assignment". You will also need their "Ji bai seki hoken" and a document to transfer their "Jibaiseki hoken" to your name, if there is time remaining on the insurance. The transfer document needs to be filled out by them with their inkan stamped on it. Take those documents and go to your city office. They will give you the paperwork that you need to fill out and they will ask you for the documents that they need. Finally, you need to go to the insurance agent's office to transfer the Jibaiseki to your name. You can ride at that point but you should look into "任意保険" (nin'i hoken) Voluntary Insurance / Optional Insurance. I have done that. It's not too bad but it takes a lot of time. If it's over 125, you need to go to the "Vehicle Registration Office / Vehicle Inspection Office". 126-250 are "Light Vehicles" and I think you need "軽自動車届出済証返納済確認書" to register it. You would get that from the seller. for 251 or bigger, you need 車検証. I have not done these yet so I am not 100% sure about everything that is needed. What bike did you buy? What city do you live in? I can look up a bit more information.
@@team819s Oh really! Well, I guess the hanko will come useful later on. I am going to check out a CBR600RR on Friday this week, and am pretty set on purchasing it. I live in Shinjuku and have only been here for almost 3 months, will be staying until the end of next year. So from what you are saying, I need "Jibaiseki hoken" and a document confirming the switch. I am assuming I get these documents from the seller? Since it is a bigger engine would I need to get 車検証 from the seller as well? Also, one last thing, is it possible to do all this in one week? The seller wants it done in 2 but I am busy all week that last week, so I would like to get it legally registered and switched ASAP! Once again, thank you for your help and that reply!!!
Hey! I am really sorry! I asked a friend to confirm what needs to be done but he never got back to me and I got busy. Did everything work out? Did you get the bike? If you still have a question, let me know.
@@team819s Hey! No worries, such is life. I did get the bike and figured it out myself on how to register it! Took some time but it worked out in the end with the little Japanese I know! Thanks
First off, great video! Recently moved to Japan to the video helped tremendously with navigating the process on purchasing from a dealer. I went the import route from the mainland, since I live in Oki and I couldn't find the bike that I had been searching for on the island. Fortunately, I found it, and can't wait to start riding. But, once I'm done with my time here and I move back to the U.S., I'd like to take my bike with me. Someone did pose a question about a year ago in one of your comments about exporting from Japan and into the U.S. (or any other country). Do you know how importing a motorcycle to the U.S. from Japan is different than importing a car? My understanding is that, similar to car exports, motorcycles still need to be at least 25 years old, and that's it's prob best to go through a company/exporter, but any guidance or insight would be welcomed, and certainly appreciated.
Hey! I did a bunch of research but then got busy. Sorry. My understand is what you just explained. The 25 year rule is for motor vehicles so it should apply. I think you will better off using an export company. If you go through the process, I'd appreciate it if you could get in touch and let me know what you did. I will post it so it can help other people too.
Hello, thanks for this video and all the super helpful information. There are 2 questions I wanted to ask that I have never got a clear understanding. Is a parking space necessary to purchase a bike in Japan? I have been told you cannot purchase a car without the police first coming to inspect the parking spot that you have for the car before you are allow to purchase, is there a similar process for motorcycles? For reference, I live in a mansion in Osaka. The other question is about the drivers license test. I have an American drivers license with a motorcycle endorsement, I need to take the automobile driving test to get my Japanese license, is the motorcycle endorsement automatically transferred as well or is a driving test required for the motorcycle as well? Thanks in advance for your time, I really appreciate your willingness to share you experiences!
Hey! You are correct about needing a verified parking space for a car. Fortunately, motorcycles do not require one. For your American license, it depends on the state. If you have a license from Hawaii, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia and Washington, you do not need to take any tests and can convert both at the same time. If your license is from from Indiana, you have to take a paper test but no driving test so I think you can do both at the same time. If you are from other states, you need to take a knowledge test (paper test) and a practical skills test so you will need to do them both separately. For more info: www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/multilingual/english/traffic_safety/drivers_licenses/index.html If you have anymore questions, please let me know!!
@@team819s Hey I have a question regarding the license transfer. Luckily im from hawaii so can just transfer, but when you do, what class does it transfer to for japan? Planning on getting the same bike I had before (a Drz400sm). So if its the normal one then that would be perfect. Also do they have any noise regulations or emissions exhaust laws for bikes there as well?
Great video thank you. I'll be visiting Japan this year for 17 days. I'd hoped to just get there, buy a motorbike and be riding it the following day so I can go on ride outs with my friends there. Seems like that probably won't happen unless I can find a dealer that will try and rush through the registration process. I was just going to sell the bike on the day before I came home. I could hire a bike, but I was hoping to save some money by buying and selling it and recouping some if not all the cost. Also I read up on the parking permit thing for cars, but I haven't found the information about motorbike parking. I'll be staying in an Air BnB apartment that has a parking space. I don't know if you have that information, or a link to it please. :) A friend in Japan has offered to lend me his scooter to get around Tokyo and immediate surroundings while I'm there. I'm not sure on the legality of lending a vehicle with regards to parking it, and insurance. I assume I'd need to get liability insurance, but would i stil need to get a parking permit, or proof of a parking place at least? Sorry, to bombard you with questions! I guess I could just ask my friends there. Haha 😅
Hey! Thanks for the comment. I think your assessment is correct. Things do not move quickly in Japan. It will be impossible to buy a bike and get it registered the same day. You will also need a "Proof of Residency" document but since you are a tourist it will be impossible to get. There are shops that will sell a bike without it but you still need to provide proof of your address in Japan. As for the parking permit. Cars need them but motorcycles do not. When borrowing a bike, every registered motorcycle is required to have "Compulsory automobile liability insurance" or "ji bai seki". It applies to the bike and only offers minimal coverage. It is enough to ride legally but if you are involved in an accident it may not provide enough coverage. Most riders also have ”Optional Insurance" or "nin i hoken". It covers all riders of the motorcycle and is based on the age of the rider. You need to check with your friend to see if you are covered. Just as an example, my optional insurance card lists people 26 and older. Unfortunately, renting may be the best bet. If you have any more questions, please let me know!
@@team819s Thank you again. I'll ask my friend about the optional insurance, and if he has it. I imagine he will. He does have a motorbike as well. It's a shame I can't borrow that as it's very nice! Hahaha😂
What bike do you want to buy that is actually 250cc? Most bikes that are sold as "250" are actually 249 or slightly less than that. Street legality in Japan also requires a headlight, taillight, turn signals, horn, street legal tires, an exhaust that passes emission and noise standards, etc... I have seen shops that will make all the mods to make dirt bikes street legal but most shops will not do that. There is too much liability for the shop. Also, you can modify a bike that is 249cc or less but if the mod is illegal, the police can still stop and ticket you.
Hi! I'm planning to go with a Working Holiday VISA and my internacional license. You showed the japanese license at the beginning, would there be any issues on completing the whole process with a foreign license? Thanks.
Hey! It is possible to convert a license from a foreign license to a Japanese one but it depends on the country your license was issued in. It's a bit of a time consuming process but it is a good idea to get it. What country issued your license?
looking at actually getting a license. Can ride a bike already (though let my license expire) and coming from Australia the rules are pretty similar. Can't seem to find a video online in English on what to expect when going the direct route.
I don't know anyone, Japanese or a foreigner, that went the direct route. Don't quote me on this but I believe the procedure is to take a written test. Then you can apply for the practical test. I believe that that test will only be available in Japanese. I also believe that they will be a bit stricter with you on the practical test since they can not confirm that you had a "proper education" on the rules of the road. If I come across any information about getting the license without going to driving school, I will let you know.
It will be cheaper and much easier to go back to Australia, renew your expired license and the convert it to a Japanese license! I did it ages ago, so I can’t remember the exact process, but I had to make sure to tell them I could ride over 400cc on my license
State side we have emissions requirements for yearly registration renewal (which vary from state and county, i.e. my county had emissions for vehicles older than 5 year from manufacturer and vehicles older than 20 were exempt.) The cost of the test $15 US and registration was $80. In my area. Some places require new vehicles to under go emissions and some place dont require emissions at all. I have a coworker who lives a county over and has no emissions test, and registration There is $30
Thanks a for this very useful video. Just to double check, there is no need to own a parking lot to buy a motorbike, right ? (Like it is for cars) Edit : I just saw in the comment it's not required One last thing, do you know if it's possible to have the juminhyo registered in Tokyo and buy a bike in another prefecture ? (It would be kagoshima for me) Thanks! 😄
i guess you bought your bike already, but anyweay, no you dont need a parking space for a bike but to be honest, i find it quite difficult sometimes to park legally in Japan and most apt owner wont allow you to park with the bicycles..
@@pameton Yes, but in Kobe no one cares. Making stickers only. Already few months parking on a bicycle parking spot. Also a car owner makes the same thing 😅
Sorry, you mention about a license, how about international license? Would they be able to sell if I have a valid international license for above 250cc?
Yeah. You can take the test without going to school but you will likely fail several times. It's a lot smoother if you go to driving school. Unfortunately, I am not sure about a driving school in Okinawa but there is a US base there so I bet there is a driving school that teaches in English. Good luck!
So if you have an American license with endorsement and clean record do you still need a high cc license? also do you need a high cc license to buy private?
Your US license only matters for converting to a Japanese license. You will not be able to buy from a dealer with just a US license. If you have an international license, most dealers should sell you a bike. Ask at the dealer you are at. I have been told you can not buy a bike, even privately, if you don't have the right license. I think you can actually buy it privately but you will have trouble trying to get it on the road since you can not legally ride it. Again, you should be able to with an international license. Finally, if you are in Japan for more than one year, you can not use an international license to ride or drive. You will be arrested for operating a motor vehicle without a license. And one of my viewers pointed out that the US embassy warns residents about riding with an international license. For more info, google "Driving in Japan US Embassy" I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, let me know! Thanks for watching!
Can foreigners currently residing in Japan buy motorcycles from Japan and then ship them overseas as a business? What are the requirements to go around that?
There are already some businesses that do that. That service os more popular with JDM cars but there are services that sell bikes too. There are a lot of legal hurdles to import or export so you need to do a lot of research.
I looked around but I have not been able to find any. I am not sure that it was sold in Japan. From what I found online, it looks like it was sold in the UK. If I see anything I will let you know.
Multi brand dealers have tons of old motorcycles. Go to your local dealer and look around. Goobike.com can help you find what you are looking for but the bike could be anywhere in Japan.
Haha! I have not looked into it but I guess not. There used to be a lot of four wheelers that drive on the street. They don't really sell them new anymore so I don't see them much anymore. I would guess you could get away with a 250 riding lawnmower.
@@shadowradish5757 Hey! Sorry for the late reply. I called the big rental shop and they said you just need your international license, your normal license, and your passport. They suggested checking their website if you want to know more. They have an English site. I have never rented from them before and have no other affiliation but the link is here: www.rental819.com/english/ I hope you can come to Japan and ride!!!
Just to clarify, do you want to import it yourself? Did the dealer import it and are selling it? In general, I don't think it's bad. Make sure you can get a license plate for it. That means, if it's a big bike, does it meet all the necessary standard to pass inspection in Japan. It could be difficult or slow to get parts depending on the bike you want to get.
@@team819s There's a shop called SOX and they seem to sell imported bikes, the reason why I want it is that it's very cheap. And there's a lot of 150cc bikes there, the only 150cc in Japan right now is Suzuki Gixxer
@@y.tomohiro952 I don't think there will be a problem with those. SOX can support you with parts and service if there are any problems. I saw them at SOX before and asked why them sell them. They said what you said, they are cheap. They also said that they are allowed on the highway and bypasses. Bikes called 125's are often technically 124cc or 123cc so they can not use the highway or bypasses.
@@team819s Thank you for answering, right now I'm still saving money for my motorcycle license, since highschool students can't have a salary of 1 million yen a year I can't buy a motorcycle because I'm also getting the car license meaning half or almost all of savings will fly away. The Japanese motorcycle line-up cost a lot of money after all lol. And again thank you!
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First of all thanks for this video! I I just bought a CBR400R today at a BIKE王 today. Everything you had in this video was on point. My jyu-min-hyo (住民票) was ~2 months old and they wouldn't accept it. Apparently it has so be less than 1 month old. My Japanese is basic JLPT N5 so the negotiation was pretty difficult, but I was able to ask what I needed to. The dealer was strict on the price, but I convinced them to put on a new chain and a few other maintenance items that I pointed out. I had a Japanese girl that I'm dating go with me to help with the paperwork and explaining things. Someone who can speak Japanese is a must! They quoted me 4 weeks before I can get the bike. Insane! Apparently they had 30 bikes to inspect in front of me. Also, I'm still on an international driving permit if anyone is wondering whether you can still buy a bike without a Japanese license. I won't have my Japanese license until ~3 months from now. I was told that they do accept credit cards, but I opted to pay 100% cash.
Cool! Nice choice of bike! I hope that you have fun riding in Japan! Thank you for sharing your experience too! I hope that it will help everyone else that watches this video!!!
@@team819s Hey 819S, do you happen to know any up to date websites that explain all of the "rules of the road" in Japan (in English) for motorcycles? Things like lane splitting, passengers, expressways, helmet ratings, protective gear, etc. There are some great PDF for driving cars in Japan, but not so much for motorcycles. I found one helpful website, but it must be ancient because it referenced things from 1993, which might be irrelevant nowadays. Thanks!
@@Soffex I looked around but I have the same experience as you. I don't know of anything that is up to date. I will let you know if I find something. I think that I will try writing that for my own website too though since it is not readily available. If there are any other topics (or specific questions) other than the ones you listed above, let me know and I will make sure to include them too.
@@team819s That would be awesome! The one's mentioned above are the main topics that I can think of
Did you have to fill In the paper work yourself or did your girlfriend do it? I ask because I know how annoying it is for some people to write in japanese
lots of info for foreigners. thanks
I hope that it can help more people ride in Japan!
I just moved to japan recently. Very nice introduction video about buying a bike. Keep it up! : )
Thanks! I hope that it helped.
Man, at least I got an idea of what getting a bike in Japan is like. Sounds super stressful if you aren't prepared.
Yeah. It's not difficult but it can be frustrating if you don't know what is involved.
Great, thanks for the information.
Very useful video
Thanks! I hope that you can buy a bike!!
5:23 is that the konan in sagamihara?
Yeah! Absolutely!! Wow! I go there sometimes but there are a lot of other shops closer to my house.
Also make a video on used sports bike engine for export.
I have never looked into it. I will put it on my list of things to check out when my work finally slows down.
@@team819s That will help alot of people looking for parts for old models like 90's era bikes with four cylinders. Also make a video on back model parts.
Very informative. I have a few questions. When you say dealer, do you mean both single brand and multi brand? Do only multi-brand dealers carry used bikes or do single brand dealers carry used bikes as well? If you need a bike serviced, which one should you go to?
Most dealers that I have been to in Japan have new and used bikes. Both multi and single brand. The used bike selection is often more limited at a single brand shop. If you are here, or , when you come; look around. It can vary from area to area!
Been looking for this information.
its so helpful thanks
Nice work!
Great job. 👍 Thank you!
I Love dirt bike !!! My dream HONDA XR650 !!!
I found an XR650 and I was drooling... Maybe someday... Stay safe!!
Thank you very much for this! Hugely helpful. I'm moving to Tokyo in a few months and was planning to buy a bike as soon as I get settled and another 6 months in.
One question that I don't believe was mentioned - do the dealers and city centre offices have English speakers? Or will I be relying on old faithful google translate?
Wow those are some high inspection costs! Here in Sweden it's like 10,000 yen or less.
Yeah. It is one of the reasons that I bought a 250. I don't need to get my bike inspected. If you stay on top of maintenance, it can be cheaper. I just wanted people to know what they could be in store for.
@@team819s very informative. Too bad it's such a hassle to have a bike in Japan. Back when i lived there i only had a car licence, would be nice to ride a bike if they ever open back up that is...
Great Video, Thanks a lot! Do I really need a Hanko as a foreigner to buy a bike or is a signature also OK?
Thanks! It will depend on the dealer. You will most likely need one but check with your dealership. A hanko should not be too expensive to get and it will make your life easier in Japan.
Thank you for the answer, I did not need a hanko. :)
Hey, thanks for the video this looks cool. I buy a lot of bikes in Japan from the auctions but I am going to Japan in April to find bikes directly from Junk Yards or dealers (if possible) can you recommend any good Junkyards to go to or how do I find them? Do you have any other advice? I look forward to hearing from you.
Hi, really informative video, helped me get some stuff together, searching for every bit of information can be a little tiresome at times. I do have a question though, what is the process if buying from a private party? I have all required documents mentioned in the video, I am just unsure where exactly to go to register the bike and if there is anything else I need? I currently have juminhyou, inkanshoumeisho(with hanko of course), and a residence card. I don't have my international license yet as I will get it in a few weeks in the mail from the U.S. Do you happen to know any info I am missing? Thanks in advance :D
@salgaf2364 I am glad that the video helped. I think you went too far with the inkanshomeisho. You do not need a registered inkan. The only time I used an inkanshomeisho was when I bought my house. How long have you been in Japan? An international license is only valid your first year in Japan. If you have been here more than a year, you need to convert your license to a Japanese one or go to driving school and get a license.
When you buy from a private party, It will depend on how big the engine is. If if's 125 and under, you need either 廃車証明書 (hai sha shou mei sho) ”Certificate of vehicle disposal", OR jyoutoshoumeisho (jyou to shou mei sho) "Certificate of Assignment". You will also need their "Ji bai seki hoken" and a document to transfer their "Jibaiseki hoken" to your name, if there is time remaining on the insurance. The transfer document needs to be filled out by them with their inkan stamped on it. Take those documents and go to your city office. They will give you the paperwork that you need to fill out and they will ask you for the documents that they need. Finally, you need to go to the insurance agent's office to transfer the Jibaiseki to your name. You can ride at that point but you should look into "任意保険" (nin'i hoken) Voluntary Insurance / Optional Insurance.
I have done that. It's not too bad but it takes a lot of time.
If it's over 125, you need to go to the "Vehicle Registration Office / Vehicle Inspection Office".
126-250 are "Light Vehicles" and I think you need "軽自動車届出済証返納済確認書" to register it. You would get that from the seller.
for 251 or bigger, you need 車検証.
I have not done these yet so I am not 100% sure about everything that is needed.
What bike did you buy? What city do you live in? I can look up a bit more information.
@@team819s Oh really! Well, I guess the hanko will come useful later on. I am going to check out a CBR600RR on Friday this week, and am pretty set on purchasing it. I live in Shinjuku and have only been here for almost 3 months, will be staying until the end of next year. So from what you are saying, I need "Jibaiseki hoken" and a document confirming the switch. I am assuming I get these documents from the seller? Since it is a bigger engine would I need to get 車検証 from the seller as well? Also, one last thing, is it possible to do all this in one week? The seller wants it done in 2 but I am busy all week that last week, so I would like to get it legally registered and switched ASAP! Once again, thank you for your help and that reply!!!
Hey! I am really sorry! I asked a friend to confirm what needs to be done but he never got back to me and I got busy.
Did everything work out? Did you get the bike?
If you still have a question, let me know.
@@team819s Hey! No worries, such is life. I did get the bike and figured it out myself on how to register it! Took some time but it worked out in the end with the little Japanese I know! Thanks
First off, great video! Recently moved to Japan to the video helped tremendously with navigating the process on purchasing from a dealer. I went the import route from the mainland, since I live in Oki and I couldn't find the bike that I had been searching for on the island. Fortunately, I found it, and can't wait to start riding. But, once I'm done with my time here and I move back to the U.S., I'd like to take my bike with me. Someone did pose a question about a year ago in one of your comments about exporting from Japan and into the U.S. (or any other country). Do you know how importing a motorcycle to the U.S. from Japan is different than importing a car? My understanding is that, similar to car exports, motorcycles still need to be at least 25 years old, and that's it's prob best to go through a company/exporter, but any guidance or insight would be welcomed, and certainly appreciated.
Hey! I did a bunch of research but then got busy. Sorry.
My understand is what you just explained. The 25 year rule is for motor vehicles so it should apply. I think you will better off using an export company. If you go through the process, I'd appreciate it if you could get in touch and let me know what you did. I will post it so it can help other people too.
Sounds great. I’ll keep you updated, and if you hear anything in the meantime, please share it. 🤙
Hello, thanks for this video and all the super helpful information. There are 2 questions I wanted to ask that I have never got a clear understanding. Is a parking space necessary to purchase a bike in Japan? I have been told you cannot purchase a car without the police first coming to inspect the parking spot that you have for the car before you are allow to purchase, is there a similar process for motorcycles? For reference, I live in a mansion in Osaka. The other question is about the drivers license test. I have an American drivers license with a motorcycle endorsement, I need to take the automobile driving test to get my Japanese license, is the motorcycle endorsement automatically transferred as well or is a driving test required for the motorcycle as well? Thanks in advance for your time, I really appreciate your willingness to share you experiences!
Hey! You are correct about needing a verified parking space for a car. Fortunately, motorcycles do not require one.
For your American license, it depends on the state. If you have a license from Hawaii, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia and Washington, you do not need to take any tests and can convert both at the same time.
If your license is from from Indiana, you have to take a paper test but no driving test so I think you can do both at the same time.
If you are from other states, you need to take a knowledge test (paper test) and a practical skills test so you will need to do them both separately.
For more info:
www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/multilingual/english/traffic_safety/drivers_licenses/index.html
If you have anymore questions, please let me know!!
@@team819s Hey I have a question regarding the license transfer. Luckily im from hawaii so can just transfer, but when you do, what class does it transfer to for japan? Planning on getting the same bike I had before (a Drz400sm). So if its the normal one then that would be perfect. Also do they have any noise regulations or emissions exhaust laws for bikes there as well?
Great video thank you. I'll be visiting Japan this year for 17 days. I'd hoped to just get there, buy a motorbike and be riding it the following day so I can go on ride outs with my friends there. Seems like that probably won't happen unless I can find a dealer that will try and rush through the registration process. I was just going to sell the bike on the day before I came home. I could hire a bike, but I was hoping to save some money by buying and selling it and recouping some if not all the cost. Also I read up on the parking permit thing for cars, but I haven't found the information about motorbike parking. I'll be staying in an Air BnB apartment that has a parking space. I don't know if you have that information, or a link to it please. :)
A friend in Japan has offered to lend me his scooter to get around Tokyo and immediate surroundings while I'm there. I'm not sure on the legality of lending a vehicle with regards to parking it, and insurance. I assume I'd need to get liability insurance, but would i stil need to get a parking permit, or proof of a parking place at least?
Sorry, to bombard you with questions! I guess I could just ask my friends there. Haha 😅
Hey! Thanks for the comment.
I think your assessment is correct. Things do not move quickly in Japan. It will be impossible to buy a bike and get it registered the same day. You will also need a "Proof of Residency" document but since you are a tourist it will be impossible to get. There are shops that will sell a bike without it but you still need to provide proof of your address in Japan.
As for the parking permit. Cars need them but motorcycles do not.
When borrowing a bike, every registered motorcycle is required to have "Compulsory automobile liability insurance" or "ji bai seki". It applies to the bike and only offers minimal coverage. It is enough to ride legally but if you are involved in an accident it may not provide enough coverage. Most riders also have ”Optional Insurance" or "nin i hoken". It covers all riders of the motorcycle and is based on the age of the rider. You need to check with your friend to see if you are covered.
Just as an example, my optional insurance card lists people 26 and older.
Unfortunately, renting may be the best bet.
If you have any more questions, please let me know!
@@team819s Thank you again. I'll ask my friend about the optional insurance, and if he has it. I imagine he will. He does have a motorbike as well. It's a shame I can't borrow that as it's very nice! Hahaha😂
Hey I have a question if I bought a 250cc dirt bike could I get street legal and not have to do the inspections either if it really was 249cc?
What bike do you want to buy that is actually 250cc? Most bikes that are sold as "250" are actually 249 or slightly less than that.
Street legality in Japan also requires a headlight, taillight, turn signals, horn, street legal tires, an exhaust that passes emission and noise standards, etc... I have seen shops that will make all the mods to make dirt bikes street legal but most shops will not do that. There is too much liability for the shop.
Also, you can modify a bike that is 249cc or less but if the mod is illegal, the police can still stop and ticket you.
@@team819s cool couldn’t find anything online about this, thank you.
Hi! I'm planning to go with a Working Holiday VISA and my internacional license. You showed the japanese license at the beginning, would there be any issues on completing the whole process with a foreign license? Thanks.
Hey! It is possible to convert a license from a foreign license to a Japanese one but it depends on the country your license was issued in. It's a bit of a time consuming process but it is a good idea to get it. What country issued your license?
@@team819s Hi. I'm from Argentina and it cannot be converted. I can use the International License for 1 year though.
looking at actually getting a license. Can ride a bike already (though let my license expire) and coming from Australia the rules are pretty similar. Can't seem to find a video online in English on what to expect when going the direct route.
I don't know anyone, Japanese or a foreigner, that went the direct route. Don't quote me on this but I believe the procedure is to take a written test. Then you can apply for the practical test. I believe that that test will only be available in Japanese. I also believe that they will be a bit stricter with you on the practical test since they can not confirm that you had a "proper education" on the rules of the road. If I come across any information about getting the license without going to driving school, I will let you know.
It will be cheaper and much easier to go back to Australia, renew your expired license and the convert it to a Japanese license! I did it ages ago, so I can’t remember the exact process, but I had to make sure to tell them I could ride over 400cc on my license
@@JDMism though I only have my Ls in australia haha
State side we have emissions requirements for yearly registration renewal (which vary from state and county, i.e. my county had emissions for vehicles older than 5 year from manufacturer and vehicles older than 20 were exempt.)
The cost of the test $15 US and registration was $80. In my area.
Some places require new vehicles to under go emissions and some place dont require emissions at all. I have a coworker who lives a county over and has no emissions test, and registration There is $30
Opps replied to wrong comment. Atleast a boost for the algorithm. 😊
Thanks a for this very useful video.
Just to double check, there is no need to own a parking lot to buy a motorbike, right ? (Like it is for cars)
Edit : I just saw in the comment it's not required
One last thing, do you know if it's possible to have the juminhyo registered in Tokyo and buy a bike in another prefecture ? (It would be kagoshima for me)
Thanks! 😄
Thanks for the video, brother 🙏 What about parking space? Do I need to have some paper to prove it? I just got my license and want to buy a
i guess you bought your bike already, but anyweay, no you dont need a parking space for a bike
but to be honest, i find it quite difficult sometimes to park legally in Japan
and most apt owner wont allow you to park with the bicycles..
@@pameton Yes, but in Kobe no one cares. Making stickers only. Already few months parking on a bicycle parking spot. Also a car owner makes the same thing 😅
@@DenisSaroyan nice, good for you, enjoy your rides then **
@@pameton that's) you to
Are the driver license classes still 1: Up to 250cc and 45hp; 2: Up to 400cc and 59hp and 3: Unlimited?
To be honest, I am not sure about the HP limits, but the classes are 125, 400, and unlimited.
Sorry, you mention about a license, how about international license?
Would they be able to sell if I have a valid international license for above 250cc?
Hai sai 819S, do you live on Okinawa? I lived there from 71-78. Mostly on Kadena AB. Cheers!
A good watch enjoyed that just goes to show no matter we’re you are in the world we all get spanked
Thanks for watching! That's the truth!
how to buy second hand motorbike from japan and import to malaysia?
can you take the motorcycle riding course without going to school? How much? Do you know the testing center on Okinawa?
Yeah. You can take the test without going to school but you will likely fail several times. It's a lot smoother if you go to driving school. Unfortunately, I am not sure about a driving school in Okinawa but there is a US base there so I bet there is a driving school that teaches in English. Good luck!
Can you buy a left seated motorcycle or there are right side oriented only?
thank you
So if you have an American license with endorsement and clean record do you still need a high cc license? also do you need a high cc license to buy private?
Your US license only matters for converting to a Japanese license. You will not be able to buy from a dealer with just a US license. If you have an international license, most dealers should sell you a bike. Ask at the dealer you are at.
I have been told you can not buy a bike, even privately, if you don't have the right license. I think you can actually buy it privately but you will have trouble trying to get it on the road since you can not legally ride it. Again, you should be able to with an international license.
Finally, if you are in Japan for more than one year, you can not use an international license to ride or drive. You will be arrested for operating a motor vehicle without a license. And one of my viewers pointed out that the US embassy warns residents about riding with an international license. For more info, google "Driving in Japan US Embassy"
I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, let me know!
Thanks for watching!
@@team819s thank you!
Can foreigners currently residing in Japan buy motorcycles from Japan and then ship them overseas as a business? What are the requirements to go around that?
There are already some businesses that do that. That service os more popular with JDM cars but there are services that sell bikes too. There are a lot of legal hurdles to import or export so you need to do a lot of research.
@@team819s Thank you
Have any honda xl 100s 1984 here ?
How can I order this ? I am in Solomon Islands. Any help .
Can a motorcycle under 400c enter a freeway / highway in Japan??
Motorcycle and scooters need to be BIGGER THAN a 125 to use the highway. 125's are not allowed (because they most often have a 124cc engine).
@@team819s okay.. thanks.. 😊
Honda cdi h100s model 1993 i want this model can you help me please
I looked around but I have not been able to find any. I am not sure that it was sold in Japan. From what I found online, it looks like it was sold in the UK. If I see anything I will let you know.
Do they have a pocket bike 🥺 I want to know ang how much is it
I haven't seen pocket bikes at most dealers. They are around but you have to look around. I think you will have better luck with Yahoo Auctions.
How many people can get on motorbike in Japan?
How if I want to buy old motorcycle?
Multi brand dealers have tons of old motorcycles. Go to your local dealer and look around. Goobike.com can help you find what you are looking for but the bike could be anywhere in Japan.
Interested,, but my country Bangladesh possible
How much.
How many cc
What city is the located in Japan
I think you can find better deals further from main cities. The engine is up to you! Buying from a city near you may be best.
I want to by how can I do cause I from Haiti
Are you in Japan now? Do you have a license? Do you have a "residence card"?
can they ship to U.S.A 🇺🇲🤷🏻♂️🤔
250cc?! So, ride a lawnmower to be exempt?
Haha! I have not looked into it but I guess not. There used to be a lot of four wheelers that drive on the street. They don't really sell them new anymore so I don't see them much anymore. I would guess you could get away with a 250 riding lawnmower.
what about renting a bike?
There are no problems with renting a bike that I know of. I will talk to a rental company and let you know more clearly what is required.
@@team819s excellent thanks
@@shadowradish5757 Hey! Sorry for the late reply. I called the big rental shop and they said you just need your international license, your normal license, and your passport. They suggested checking their website if you want to know more. They have an English site. I have never rented from them before and have no other affiliation but the link is here:
www.rental819.com/english/
I hope you can come to Japan and ride!!!
Is buying an imported bike a bad idea?
Just to clarify, do you want to import it yourself? Did the dealer import it and are selling it?
In general, I don't think it's bad. Make sure you can get a license plate for it. That means, if it's a big bike, does it meet all the necessary standard to pass inspection in Japan. It could be difficult or slow to get parts depending on the bike you want to get.
@@team819s There's a shop called SOX and they seem to sell imported bikes, the reason why I want it is that it's very cheap.
And there's a lot of 150cc bikes there, the only 150cc in Japan right now is Suzuki Gixxer
@@y.tomohiro952 I don't think there will be a problem with those. SOX can support you with parts and service if there are any problems. I saw them at SOX before and asked why them sell them. They said what you said, they are cheap. They also said that they are allowed on the highway and bypasses. Bikes called 125's are often technically 124cc or 123cc so they can not use the highway or bypasses.
@@team819s Thank you for answering, right now I'm still saving money for my motorcycle license, since highschool students can't have a salary of 1 million yen a year I can't buy a motorcycle because I'm also getting the car license meaning half or almost all of savings will fly away.
The Japanese motorcycle line-up cost a lot of money after all lol.
And again thank you!
@@team819s I have a last question question, do you think if I bought a imported bike from a different dealership SOX will still support me?
Hy am from Kenya if a want motorbike can I depends on you to buy for me an shipping it to Kenya
I wish I could but I can't. I don't have free time and I do not know the laws for exporting bikes. Sorry.
I'm thinking to get a license for a bike in japan my dream is to have a harley davidson
It's a great idea! Riding made my life so much better! Good luck!!
SEND me bike price
www.goobike.com/index.html
or
motorcycle.goobike.com/
It blows my mind that anyone would buy a Harley Davidson in Japan.
So glad i can give cash for a 1000 no license and call it a day USA 😂