When an emergency vehicle approaches at a place other than at or near an intersection, a vehicle must always come to a complete stop.

Explanation

Away from an intersection, the law only requires you to pull over to the left side and let the emergency vehicle pass — a full stop is not required. The mandatory stop applies only at or near an intersection.

Guides that explain this

• Overtaking and Lane Rules in Japan: Where It Is Banned, and How
• Japanese Signs That Mean the Opposite of What You Assume: Crosswind, End of Restriction, Minimum Speed

Related terms

• Coming to a stop (ichiji teishi)

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