Cycling (un-)safety in Japan: Explaining high road traffic crash numbers from a cultural and infrastructure perspective

Cycling has a long history in Japan and it remains a vital means of transport in many urban areas, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, which show some of Japan's highest bicycle commuting mode shares. However, Japan's cycling infrastructure, though well-developed, is characterized by numerous conflict points with other transport modes, contributing to relatively high accident rates for cyclists and pedestrians. This paper examines the evolution of cycling infrastructure and safety measures, highlighting the government's initiatives, such as the 11th Fundamental Traffic Safety Program, aimed at reducing accidents. It also addresses the impact of Japan's aging society on cycling popularity and safety, as well as cultural factors influencing the perception of cycling, such as helmet use and the view of bicycles as a “car-like” mode of transport. Further insights are provided on the regulatory landscape, including recent revisions to Japan's Road Traffic Act, which impose stricter penalties for cycling violations. As a result, the current measures by the state indicating a stricter regulation for cyclists can be seen as first implementations for approaching a “zero-crash” vision in the near future. In conclusion, while cycling continues to be a prominent mode of transport in Japan, its safety and popularity are shaped by both infrastructural challenges and demographic changes. • Cycling is popular in urban Japan, especially in Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. • Japan's cycling infrastructure has many conflict points, raising accident risks. • The 11th Traffic Safety Program aims to reduce cyclist and pedestrian accidents. • An aging population and cultural attitudes affect cycling trends and safety. • Stricter cycling laws reflect recent updates to Japan's Road Traffic Act.