To help you have a safe,
comfortable andpleasant car trip in Hokkaido.
Hokkaido is blessed with natural landscapes and the roads arewide, so you can enjoy pleasant drive. In such surroundings,
however, it is easy to pick up speed and there have been many
incidents of car accidents. It is true that a rental car is the mostappropriate means of transportation to fully enjoy Hokkaido’s
attractions. If you leave the cities and busy traffic to drive along
the roads where tour buses do not go you can experience the“beautiful nature” and “lifestyle” unique to Hokkaido. A free andeasy car trip will make your stay in Hokkaido more enjoyable.

Be sure to bring a copy of the “Must-have
Handbook for Driving in Hokkaido” whendriving in Hokkaido!
Features of this handbook and user’s guide
Features٨This guide book has been developed to assist foreign drivers who travel
Hokkaido by rental cars to sightsee safely, easily and comfortably.
٨In view of the above, all necessary information has been organized in
Chapter 1 to Chapter 4.‫ޓ‬٨When driving in Hokkaido, if you need more detailed information please
see the websites of other organizations offering the existing informationthat are listed in this guide book.

How to use this handbook?
As the contents are based on data collected through actual interviews, this is a book that will certainly help you when
you are in trouble and wondering, “What should I do in a situation like this?” It can also be used for point and speak.

!

e
Is e

?

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!

Descriptions of troubles that foreign visitors in Hokkaido
actually encountered based on the findings of a survey
completed by the foreign visitors are denoted.

Introduces the last resort when you have tried everything
and nothing worked.

M e m oIntroduces supplementary information such as descriptionof terms.

ColumnIntroduces little information unique to the area that will
work to your advantage.

Bite-sized information
for your benefit

Quick
Tip

Point andSpeak Phrases

Helpful pointers offered by a master car traveler that will
make your Hokkaido trip enjoyable.
When you are in a bind wondering what to do, you canpoint at the appropriate phrases listed in this book tocommunicate with other person. Brief comments are listed.

For your pleasant car trip in Hokkaido

01

Introduction – To our foreign visitors –Before you leave for a Hokkaido tour by car
Two months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

Departure!!

Collect informationon Hokkaido tours
by carDecide on the route

Collect detailed
information andobtain necessary
items before you
leave

What you absolutely
cannot forget

Make up a list of places you
like to visit, roads you like totake, and other related items
and it will be easier to decideon the route.

Decide on the locations to rent
and return a rental car.
Decide on the number of days
and budget for the trip.

See

See

P.04 Chapter 1
Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

What you need to have collected!
٨Driving map of Hokkaido ‫ޓ‬٨Traffic rules and manners

Make arrangements
for air tickets/lodging.
Choosing where you stay is a
key consideration point whentraveling by car. Keep thedriving distance within 150 km
betweenthedepartinglocation and where yourlodging is for the day. If theplace you plan to stay for thenight is too far, you may end
up doing nothing but driving allday.

Making arrangements
for a rental car

P.24 Chapter 3
Traffic rules and quick
tips
٨How to use a car navigation
system

P.22 See
Chapter 2
Reservation of rental
cars
٨Websites for information
gathering

P.48 See
Information
Telephone numbers andwebsites of relatedorganizations

To make a reservation for therental car required for touring
Hokkaido by car, it is possible
to make arrangements byphone or online. Choose amost appropriate plan basedon the number of days, people
and the route.

The trip itself will not happen
unless you have these. When
you are going through aprocedure to rent a car inJapan, car rental companies
occasionally refuse to rent out
a car unless you have yourpassport and international
driver’s license. So be careful.
You will also need these items
when you are asked to show
the police your driver’s license
if you are involved in an
accident or traffic violation.
٨Passport
٨International driver’s
license issued by a Geneva
Convention member
country٨A copy of the reservation
slip for the rental car*Please check the expiry dateof your international driver’s
license.

P.21 See
Chapter 2
Reservation of rental
cars

Arrivalin Hokkaido!!
Start driving

When you have arrived at the
airport, go to the car rental
booth. From there you will betaken to the office of the car
rental company by bus. Be
careful since airport offices ofcar rental companies in
Hokkaido are located a little
far from the airport. Consult
the points of caution for
driving in Hokkaido and havea safe and enjoyable drive!

P.24 See
Chapter 3
Traffic rules and quick
tips

Points of caution
about winter roads
If you drive a rental car in
winter, information is available
on Page 37.

P.37 See
Chapter 3
3-5. Be careful on snowy
roads!

See

P.20 Chapter 2
Reservation of rental
cars

Contents
Introduction – To our foreign visitors – 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 1
Before you leave for a Hokkaido tour by car 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 2

Chapter 4 What should you do in a situation like this? 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 39
4-1. If you are in a car accident or have committed a traffic violation䊶䊶 40
4-2. If you have an injury or illness 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 41

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido! 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 3

4-3. If you have weather-related trouble 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 42

1-1. Vastness of Hokkaido䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 4

4-4. If your car breaks down 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 43

1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 6

4-5. If your car is hit by a wild animal 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 44

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 11
1-4. Useful pieces of knowledge for comfortable driving 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 16

Information 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 45

1-5. Observe rules and local customs! 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 17(1) Phrases to use (by pointing) in an emergency 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 46(2) Telephone numbers and websites of related organizations 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 48

Chapter 2 Reservation of rental cars 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 19(3) Helpful information 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 51

2-1. Basic information on rental car services 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 20
2-2. How to use car navigation systems 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 22

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 23
3-1. Before driving in Hokkaido 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 24
3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 25
3-3. Use expressways! 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 33
3-4. How to use gas stations䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 35
3-5. Be careful on snowy roads! 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 37

In closing 䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 52

What to do to prepare for your trip
before you leave

02

Introduction – To our foreign visitors –Two months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

ArrivalDeparture!! in Hokkaido!!

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-1. Vastness of Hokkaido䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 04
1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 06
1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 11
1-4. Useful pieces of knowledge for comfortable driving䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 16
1-5. Observe rules and local customs!䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 17

1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido
One of the reasons why Hokkaido is so popular with international drivers is that the four seasons areclearly defined in Hokkaido and visitors can enjoy each season’s natural wonders. If a traveler does notplan with the seasons in mind, their trip will be ruined. It is also important to know what influences
seasonal weather conditions such as snow storms and icy roads can have on driving.

Spring – Hokkaido’s charm in spring –Period: April to June

The first signs of spring are found in Hokkaido in April. Butterbur sprouts come up despite the remaining snow, andvisitors can enjoy sunshine while watching rivers swollen with water by the melting of the snow. Spring finally arrives
in towns despite snow still on the mountains. Cherry blossoms and ume (plum) blossoms are all in bloom together inearly May, and after that, lustrous fresh green leaves start to sprout.

Scenery
Cherry blossoms bloom between
late April and mid May. Go to see
cherry blossoms in full bloom bychecking the flowering-time information on the Web site.

Schedule of thecherry-blossom
season

April

May

late

early

middlelate

Central Hokkaido
Southern Hokkaido
Northern Hokkaido
Eastern Hokkaido

Shizunai Town,
Nijukken Road

Experience

Part of the charm of Hokkaido’s spring skiing, which can be enjoyed until
early May, is that the ski slopes still boast plenty of high-quality snow.
Sunglasses need to be worn as Hokkaido’s sunshine in May is strong.
Thrilling rafting during the snow thawing season is also fun. In spring, thevolume of water due to meltwater flows increases dramatically. Rafting is Rafting
available from April to late May.

Potato field

Spring skiing

Food
With the melting of the snow, Hokkaido’s delicious seafood and gifts from theland begin to be available and served up on the table. Asparagus that signifies
the coming of spring is a product that represents Hokkaido. Although the mainfood preparation method for asparagus is to fry it in butter,, tempura asparagus
Hairy crab
is also delicious.
Highest‫ع‬Basic information on spring
Around the Vernal
Equinox Day or March 20

䋨㷄䋩

30
20

Sunrise

5:39

10Sunset

17:47

Averagetemperature

Lowesttemperature
Around the Vernal䋨㷄䋩Equinox Day or March 20

Wakkanai

April

30

Sunrise

5:37

20

Sunset17:45

10

Snow starts to melt and skunk cabbages
bloom in the wetlands. It is the weather
for wearing light coats or jackets.

00

Sapporo

-10
April

May

April

䋨㷄䋩

Hakodate

30
Around the Vernal
Equinox Day or March 20

10
0
-10
April

May

June

May

-10

June

20

Asparagus

temperature

May

June

䋨㷄䋩

Kushiro30

Around the Vernal
Equinox Day or March

20

5:41

Sunrise

5:26

0Sunset17:49

Sunset

17:34

-10
April

May

June

A series of fine weather days areexperienced, and many kinds of flowers
begin to bloom all together. Although
short-sleeved shirts can be wornoccasionally, long-sleeved shirts should
also be brought for trips at night.

!

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June

10

Sunrise

Although the sunshine is warm, the windis still cold. This month brings almost thesame weather as the main island of
Honshu gets in April. It is advisable tobring jackets.

Important points regarding driving trips in spring
1 A number of winter-season road‫ع‬closures are applied on someroads until late April.

2 Roads may be frozen up around mountain passes until early May.
‫ع‬
3 Roads may be frozen near the entrance of tunnels and on bridges.
‫ع‬
4 Be sure to arrive at the places you plan to stay overnight before sunset.
‫ع‬

Hokkaido’s charm in spring

06

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido

Summer – Hokkaido’s charm in summer –Period: July to AugustThanks to a non-humid and dry climate, the short summer in Hokkaido creates one of the best summer resort destinations. It is also the most suitable season for driving due to longer hours of daylight.

Scenery
In summer, Hokkaido hosts flowersof red, yellow, pink, purple and otherhues all blooming together andpainting the vast land with theirbeautiful colors. All scenery spotsof Hokkaido in summer become
photo spots.

Koshimizu-gensei-kaen

Sunflowers in Hokuryu

Water lilies in Onuma

Sapporo Summer Festival

Sea kayak

Auto-camping

Experience
Many local and unique events areoffered in the regions all over
Hokkaido to take full advantage of
its short summer. Active outdoor
programs are recommended toenjoy the vast nature.

Food
Seafood in Hokkaido increases inflavor in summer. Shrimps, crabs
and sea urchins are Hokkaido’sfinest products. It is a gourmet
season with extra-sweet melons,watermelons and white corn being
harvested in the fields.

Corn

Hanasaki crab

Sea urchin

Melon (above),
Watermelon (below)‫ع‬Basic information on summer
Around the summer
solstice or June 21

䋨㷄䋩

30
20

Sunrise

3:55

Sunset19:18

Around the summer
solstice or June 21

Wakkanai

Sunrise

3:45

Sunset19:25

10

Sapporo

0
July

䋨㷄䋩

10

August0
July30

Hakodate

AugustStrong sunshine is enjoyed throughout
Hokkaido’s central regions. Occasional
frost is discovered along the coasts. The
temperature drops sharply after the Obon
holiday.

䋨㷄䋩Kushiro30

20

Around the summer
solstice or June 21

10

Sunrise

4:02

Sunrise

3:43

10

0

Sunset19:15

Sunset19:05

0AugustShort sleeved shirts are suitable for the
daytime, but light jackets should be
brought for trips at night or when in themountains or lakes districts.

20

August

䋨㷄䋩

July

July

30

Around the summer
solstice or June 21

20

Highesttemperature

July

AugustAveragetemperature

Lowesttemperature

!

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Important points regarding driving trips in summer
1 During the Obon holiday, many people‫ع‬

2 Roads may be closed (especially‫ع‬

3 Parking lots at sightseeing spots‫ع‬go back to their hometowns and also
many tourists visit Hokkaido, and so
immigration and departure procedures
may take longer than usual. Sincesightseeing spots are crowded, it isimportant to plan your driving trip freefrom time constraints.

when road traffic regulations are
introduced) and trains andairplanes can be delayed orcancelled due to natural disasters such as typhoons.
ЈRefer to Chapter 4.

are often full, and there may be
traffic jams (one or two hours
waiting in some cases). It is
important to plan your driving tripin Hokkaido free from time
constraints.

07
Hokkaido’s charm in summer

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido

Autumn – Hokkaido’s charm in autumn –Period: September to November

Hokkaido in autumn has colorful autumn leaves and is a treasure house of food with a bountiful harvest being
produced from the mountains and seas. Visitors can enjoy Hokkaido’s seasonal products including potatoes, onions
salmon, smelts, apples and grapes. Various festivals are held to celebrate the harvest in the Hokkaido regions, and
it is recommended to try the specialties in season.

Scenery
Since the best season forautumn leaves differs by area aswell as depending on the climatethat year, it is essential to dosome research on the Web.

٨Autumn-leaf seasons
Between mid September
and mid October

Between late September
and mid October
Northern
Hokkaido

CentralHokkaido

Southern
Hokkaido

Between early andlate October

Eastern
Hokkaido

Between early and Western yellow mustard
mid OctoberExperience

Mashike, Yoichi and Niki towns among other areas are famous as places where
fruit-picking programs are available, with apples and grapes the main fruits tobe harvested. Among other outdoor events, going canoeing on the beautiful
lakes is also recommended.
Canoeing

Food

Ingredients

Why don’t you find seasonal
products that you can eat only atthat harvesting area?

September

Harvesting areas

middle

late

early

middleEastern Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

SalmonEvery area in Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

Atka mackerel

Eastern Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

Smelt

Mukawa

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

30
20

Sunrise

5:22

10Sunset17:31

ψ

Hokkai shrimp

Notsuke Bay

Oyster

AkkeshiψψψPotatoEvery area in Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

New soba noodles Shintoku, HorokanaiψψNew rice

Central Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

ApplesWestern part of Central Hokkaido

ψ

ψ

ψ

ψ

Saury

Apple

SalmonNew rice

Highesttemperature
Averagetemperature

Lowesttemperature
Around the Autumnal Equinox 㧔͠㧕Day or September 20

Around the Autumnal Equinox
Day or September 20㧔͠㧕ψHands-on harvest(Apple picking)late

Pacific sauryψCosmoses in Takikawa andShibetsu

OctoberearlyJapanese Flying Squid Hakodate‫ع‬Basic information on autumn

Scenery of run of salmon

Autumn leaves

Wakkanai

September

30

Sunrise

5:21

20

Sunset

17:30

10

0

It becomes chilly in the morning andevening around mid September, and theautumn season begins late in the month.

0

Sapporo

-10
Sep.

Oct.

Nov.

㧔͠㧕

Hakodate30
20Around the Autumnal Equinox
Day or September 20

10
0
-10
Sep.

Oct.

-10

Nov.

Sep.

Oct.

Nov.

Sep.

Oct.

Nov.

㧔͠㧕

Kushiro30

Around the Autumnal Equinox
Day or September 20

20

October, November
Mid-October is the best season forautumn leaves on the plains, just as thefirst snow falls in the mountains. Your
breath turns white, and sweaters andcoats are necessary.

10

Sunrise

5:25

Sunrise

5:10

0Sunset

17:33

Sunset

17:19

-10

!

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Important points regarding driving trips in autumn
1 Sunset happens early.
‫ع‬

2 Take care not to slip in the first snows from‫ع‬

3 The first snow falls on the mountain‫ع‬Be careful to know thetime for sunset between
autumn and wintermid to late October in Northern Hokkaido,
in late October in Central and Eastern
Hokkaido and early November in Southern
Hokkaido.

passes in early October, which isearlier than down on the plains, andsome roads are closed for the winterafter early November.

08
Hokkaido’s charm in autumn

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-2. Seasonal charms of Hokkaido

Winter – Hokkaido’s charm in winter –Period: December to MarchIn December, not only mountain regions but also urban areas are covered with snow. Although it is the beginning ofa long and cold winter, travelers have the chance to enjoy driving in winter while visiting a lot of local events that areheld only in winter.

Scenery
Silvery landscapes of beautiful pure-whitesnow makes travelers feel as if they havecome to another dimension, well beyond theordinary experience. Mysterious and romantic
silvery landscapes attract visitors.

Ice floe

Flying swans

Flying Japanese
red-crowned cranes

Hot-air balloon ride

Pond-smelt fishing

OysterSailfin poacher

Experience
Various winter events such as the Sapporo Snow Festival are provided in eachregion in Hokkaido. It may be fun to plan to visit these events during your tripby referring to the Web sites.
Name of events

Approx. seasons

SapporoSnow Festival

Early Feb.

Asahikawa
Winter Festival

Early Feb.

Winter Circus

Early Feb.

Contents

PlacesAround 300 large- and mid-size snow and ice statues,
International Snow statue Contest, etc.

Sapporo Odori Park venue, Susukino venue, etc.

The world’s largest snow and ice statues as well as objets
d’art of lights are created. Various events including nightly
fireworks and winter activities are provided./
Various landmarks are created using snow and these
showcase the Taisetsu-Furano Route of Scenic Byway
Hokkaido program in winter.

Riverfront of the Ishikari River and Asahi Bridge inAsahikawa, Tokiwa Park, Heiwa Avenue Kaimono
Park, Nana-jo Ryokudo
Along the Taisetsu-Furano Route of Scenic Byway
Hokkaido program (Asahikawa City, parking areas
along expressways, etc.)

Food
Hokkaido’s culture is to live lavishly in winter by eating delicious food. Japanese traditional dishes of various hot-pots using seafood are cooked at thetable and warm the cockles of your heart.

‫ع‬Basic information on winterAround the winter solsticeor December 21

㧔͠㧕

20
10

Sunrise

7:03

0Sunset

16:03

-10
-20

Averagetemperature

December

Wakkanai

Around the winter solstice㧔͠㧕or December 21
20

Sunrise

7:10

Sunset15:53

Hakodate

10

Around the winter solsticeor December 210-10Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

January100-10Sapporo20

From late in this month, snow stays
throughout the season.
Overcoats,mittens and winter or nonslip shoes arenecessary.

Lowesttemperature-20

Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

㧔͠㧕

-20

Highesttemperature

Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

20

Around the winter solsticeor December 21

100Sunrise7:01

Sunrise

6:50-10Sunset16:09

Sunset15:51-20

February
This is the last month of the coldest
season. The clothes you will need are thesame as those in December and January.
The temperature differences between themorning and the evening are large.
Clothes which can be put on and taken off
easily are recommended (as houses andrestaurants/shops etc are so well heatedthat you can easily be overdressed).

㧔͠㧕

Kushiro

It is the period of changeable weather.
Central Hokkaido and the Taisetsu
districts have lots of snow, and thetemperature especially in Tokachi region
and Eastern Hokkaido gets very low.
Jackets and coats with hoods are useful.

Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

March
Snow begins to melt, and white arum
blooms in the wetlands. At night, thesame clothes as those worn in winter are
recommended.

!

e
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Important points regarding driving trips in winter
1 During the Snow Festival season,‫ع‬

immigration and departure procedures at airports may take longer
than usual. It is important to plan
your trip free from time constraints, especially on days ofdeparture and arrival.

2 Road conditions are bad due to‫ع‬compacted snow and ice that looks
black on the roads (black ice).
Since the traffic moves slowly inurban regions due to traffic jams, it
is important to plan your driving trip
free from time constraints.

3 Public traffic facilities may be at a‫ع‬complete standstill because of closed
expressways due to heavy snow,
severe snowstorms, drifting snow,
etc. and with aircraft delay and/or
cancellation of flights and trains as
well. Local streets are also crowded.
ЈRefer to Chapter 4

09
Hokkaido’s charm in winter

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

10

THE FOUR SEASONSOF HOKKAIDO

Five areas of Hokkaido

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido
Hokkaido is divided up into five areas; Central, Northern, Southern andEastern Hokkaido as well as the Tokachi/Taisetsu region. The best andmost efficient way to plan your driving trip is to decide the main areas you
wish to visit. We hope that by choosing target areas based on local major
sightseeing spots, you will be able to fully enjoy your holiday in Hokkaido.

Northern
Hokkaido area

Eastern Hokkaido area

CentralHokkaido area

Tokachi and Taisetsu area
Southern Hokkaido area

Southern Hokkaido area – Experiencing the frontier spirit –٨Onuma Quasi National Park, Tsukimi Bridge (Nanae Town)

٨New Goryokaku Tower andcherry blossoms (Hakodate)٨Goryokaku (Hakodate)is limited admission for cars between late April and mid
Quick There
October on Mt. Hakodate and roads are closed between 17:00 andTip
22:00.
A‫ع‬

Hakodate
The night views visible from Mt. Hakodate are said to be one of theworld’s three best night views, and it is famous as a sightseeing spot.
There are popular fresh seafood restaurants at the Hakodate
Morning Market located next to Hakodate Station.

5

4
2

A Hakodate Night View
‫ع‬B
B Goryokaku Park in Hakodate where cherry ‫ع‬‫ع‬blossoms are in full bloom in spring
C Yunokawa Hot Spring Resort in Hakodate‫ع‬D Scenery in Motomachi Town at the foot of
‫ع‬

C
‫ع‬

1 6

D
‫ع‬

3

New Chitose
AirportMt. Hakodate

Onuma Park

First day

Beautiful seasonal scenery can be admired atOnuma Park located one-hour away fromHakodate by car.
Various activities such as ice fishing in winteron ponds (for smelt) are available

Hakodate
Airport

1 Leave Hakodate
approx. 15 km
approx. 20 min.

Second day

Esashi2 Leave Kamiiso
approx. 80 km
approx. 1 hr. 40 min.

Esashi Town located in the southwest area of Hokkaido issaid to be the birthplace of Hokkaido culture. he Japanesebattleship Kaiyo Maru from the Edo period is being restored.

3 Leave Matsumae

Kaiyo Maru

approx.60 km
approx. 1 hr. 10 min.

KamiisoThird day

The Trappist Butter and cookies, butter candies and jam
produced here are famous as souvenirs representative of
Hokkaido.

approx. 70 km
approx. 1 hr. 20 min.
Fourth day

Trappist Monastery

5 Leave Onuma Parkapprox. 30 km
approx. 30 min.

Matsumae
The town has a place in history as the northernmost domainof the shogunate system during the late Edo period.
Matsumae Castle and Teramachi Town are designated as
Hokkaido Heritage sites. There are beautiful gardens andvarious old trees which change with the seasons. Matsumae
is covered with cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas inearly summer, verdure in summer and autumn leaves inautumn.

4 Leave Esashi

6 Leave Hakodate
approx. 10 km
approx. 10 min.
To Hakodate Airport
Matsumae Castle

11
Charms of Southern Hokkaido andimportant things to know

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido

Central Hokkaido area

– A trip to enjoy resorts set in stunning
natural environments –٨Mt. Yotei, wheat field (Niseko Town)

٨Lake Toya in spring (Sobetsu Town)

٨Sapporo Nijo Fish Market

٨Odori Park (Sapporo)

Quick Driving in Sapporo takes concentration due to lots of complicated traffic
situations such as one-way traffic.
Tip

4
5
3

Lake Toya

1

2This area provided the venue for the Lake Toya G8 Summit
in 2008. Visitors can enjoy hot springs and rides on ferries
on the lake.

New Chitose
AirportNisekoFirst dayThis area has one of the most popular resorts in the country,
sprawling at the foot of beautiful Mt. Yotei. Hands-on
outdoor sports programs such as mountain climbing, canoeing and rafting in summer are provided. Winter sports at ski
fields boasting world-class quality snow are also popular,
and the region has various hot springs.

approx. 120 km
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
Second day

Otaru

Third day‫ع‬
B Odori Park divides the central area of Sapporo into east‫ع‬and west. Hot corn cobs are sold in summer, and their
A One of Sapporo’s famous symbols, the Sapporo ClockTower, is also beautifully illuminated at night.
savory smell entices visitors to buy them.

3 Leave Niseko
approx. 90 km
approx. 2 hrs.

Fourth day

Sapporo2 Leave Toyako-onsen
approx.60 km
approx. 1 hr. 20 min.

The port town of Otaru is famous as the location site for thefilm “Love Letter.” Otaru’s famous symbol, the Otaru Canal,
creates a romantic atmosphere as it is illuminated at night.

A‫ع‬

1 Leave New Chitose AirportB‫ع‬

4 Leave Otaru
approx. 40 km
approx. 50 min.

5 Leave Sapporo
approx. 50 km
approx. 50 min.
To New Chitose
Airport12
Charms of Central Hokkaido andimportant things to know

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido

Taisetsu/Tokachi area – A trip to experience the bounty of nature –٨Setting sun in a snowfield (Biei Town)

٨Autumn leaves in Sounkyo(Kamikawa Town)

٨Field of yellow mustard andTokachi mountain range (Biei Town)

3

Tokachi area is famous for its long, straight roads. Be careful not to
Quick The
exceed speed limits or have a traffic accident on these roads thatTipcommand amazing views of the Tokachi Plains.
B
‫ع‬

1

2
4
5
6

Asahikawa
A Asahikawa ramen which is served with thin‫ع‬
noodles is as famous as Sapporo ramen.
A
‫ع‬
The
nation’s northernmost zoo, which hasB‫ ع‬become
famous for showcasing animals’ unique

New Chitose
AirportFirst daybehavior

Asahikawa
Airport

1 Leave Asahikawa
approx. 85 km
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.

Biei, Furano

2 Leave Sounkyo

In Biei, located next to Furano, enormous
farming fields developed by man have createdbeautiful scenery.
In winter, the silvery
landscape can make a deep impression on
visitors to this snow country. Also, the lavenderseason that is very popular with visitors from
East Asia produces a landscape of lavender,
covering the fields just like a purple carpet.

approx. 25 km
approx. 30 min.
Second day

approx. 70 km
approx. 1 hr. 20 min.

4 Leave Biei

Near Obihiro
Various seasonal outdoor sports are provided
in the Tokachi area. You can travel down theriver in a relaxed fashion or you can enjoy the
excitement of being pulled on a sleigh by asnowmobile in snow-rafting.

A Obihiro is famous for its confectionary,‫ع‬
represented by Rokkatei

B Kamishihoro Town, Naitai Heights Stock farm‫ع‬C Shintoku soba noodles‫ع‬
D Rafting‫ع‬

3 Leave KamikawaA‫ع‬

approx. 35 km
approx. 50 min.

B‫ع‬

Third dayC‫ع‬

5 Leave Furano
approx. 120 km
approx. 2 hrs.

D‫ع‬

Fourth day

6 Leave Obihiro
approx. 30 km
approx. 40 min.
To Obihiro Airport

13
Charms of Taisetsu/Tokachi area andimportant things to know

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido

Eastern Hokkaido Area – A trip to the mysterious Shiretoko –٨Ice floes in Masuura Port (Abashiri)٨Ezo deer (Shari Town)

٨Setting sun in Utoro (Shari Town)3

the distances between cities in Eastern Hokkaido are large, it is
Quick Since
important not to get tired while driving so make sure you take occasional
Tiprest stops. Also you should check the level of your fuel before you depart

4

1

2
5

to drive from one city to another. Remember that the Shiretoko Pass from
Utoro to Rausu is closed in winter.

6

B
‫ع‬

Shiretoko
A The Shiretoko Five Lakes are one of the most‫ع‬famous sights in Shiretoko. It takes approximately

New Chitose
AirportA‫ع‬

one hour to drive around all five lakes. However,it takes approximately 30 minutes to drive aroundjust the first and second lakes.

D‫ع‬First dayB Ice floes in Shiretoko‫ع‬Memambetsu
Airport

1 Leave Abashiri
approx. 40 km
approx. 50 min.

C The Oshinkoshin falls located at the entrance of
‫ع‬
C
‫ع‬
Utoro on the way to Shiretoko welcome tourists.
The
Shiretoko
Peninsulacanbeviewed
from
the
D
‫ع‬
sea on the Shiretoko Cruiser.
E Rausu, an area blessed with nature’s wonders,‫ع‬is the only area where tourists can enjoy fish taken

E‫ع‬Second day

2 Leave Koshimizu
approx. 60 km
approx. 1 hr. 10 min.

from nutrient-rich sea water

3 Leave Utoro

Abashiri

A
‫ع‬

B
‫ع‬

A Commanding the Shiretoko‫ع‬
Peninsula from the Tentozan

approx. 25 km
approx. 30 min.
Notes: Refer to Quick Tip

Third dayFlower Garden

B Koshimizu Natural Flower‫ع‬Gardenapprox. 70 km
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.

“Katte-don” in the Kushiro Washo
MarketB Scenery from Kaiyodai in
Nakashibetsu Town‫ع‬

5 Leave Nakashibetsu

B‫ع‬

Kushiro, Nakashibetsu
A Nobody knows who named the‫ع‬

4 Leave Rausu

approx. 100 km
approx. 1 hr. 50 min.
A‫ع‬

Fourth day

6 Leave Kushiro
approx. 25 km
approx. 40 min.
To Kushiro Airport

14
Charms of Eastern Hokkaido andimportant things to know

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-3. Regional charms of Hokkaido

Northern Hokkaido Area

– A trip to the northernmost region andits naturally beautiful islands –٨The Sea of Japan Ororon Line (Obira Town)

٨Rebun Island (Rebun Town)

٨Rugosa roses and Mt. Rishiri (Toyotomi Town)

1 4

3

Quick
Tip

2

When taking your car on a ferry, all necessary procedures must becompleted 40 minutes before departure. Please complete the process
well in advance.

WakkanaiB‫ع‬

Mt. Rishiri and Rebun Island can be observed from thepeninsula protruding into the northwest-most Soya
Channel at Wakkanai. At sunset, the sea becomes
drenched with orange and the silhouette of Mt. Rishiri
can be seen.

A Cape Noshappu‫ع‬
B In Wakkanai, taste fresh king‫ع‬
crabs boiled immediately afterA‫ع‬

New Chitose
Airport
C
‫ع‬

D
‫ع‬

First daythey have been caught

Second dayA‫ع‬Rishiri, Rebun

Third day

B Rishiri Island, Himenuma‫ع‬C Rishiri and Rebun islands’ specialty dish,‫ع‬
rice topped with sea urchins uses the sweet
Ezo green sea urchin.
C
‫ع‬

D
‫ع‬

2 Leave Rishiri Island
Ferry landing
approx. 30 km
approx. 40 min.

B‫ع‬

A Rishirifuji and flowers can be seen from the‫ع‬
Momoiwa observatory on Rebun Island

E Cycling along the Rishiri Cycling‫ع‬Road is refreshing.

1 Leave Wakkanai
Ferry landing
approx.15 km
approx. 20 min.

C Wakkanai Park, Hyosetsu no‫ع‬Mon
D The nation’s northernmost Cape
‫ع‬
Soya

D Kutsugata-misaki Park and‫ع‬Rishirifuji

Wakkanai
Airport

3 Leave Rebun Island
Ferry landing
approx. 25 km
approx. 30 min.

E‫ع‬

Fourth day

4 Leave Cape Soyaapprox. 25 km
approx. 30 min.
To Wakkanai Airport

15
Charms of Northern Hokkaido andimportant things to know

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-4. Useful pieces of knowledge for comfortable driving
There are some things that travelers should know in order to be able to drive comfortably across thevastness of Hokkaido. Learning how to utilize the information centers across Hokkaido as well as how toshop for your daily requirements is essential.

Practical use ofMichi-no-eki(information stations)ᢊƷ ᬜᵹ᳖ⴝ㆏✂⿛
Ryuhyokaido Abashiri

There are approximately 100 Michi-no-eki along National Roads allover Hokkaido. At each facility, there are lavatories, and local
specialty products are sold. In addition, computerized information
resources are provided so you can get road information in real time.
Some Michi-no-eki offer accommodation
facilities, and the number of Michi-no-eki
where visitors can access computers and use
the Internet freely is steadily increasing. By
using Michi-no-eki wisely, you can double thepleasure of your driving trip.

Practical use of convenience stores
A lack of availability of food and drink is one of the difficulties faced
during the long distances between urban regions on a driving trip in
Hokkaido.
Since convenience stores exist everywhere in Hokkaido andprovide toilet facilities to their customers, they really are convenient
for long-distance travelers! In addition, they offer various preparedlunches and meals which travelers can buy when they do not haveenough time to stop somewhere to eat.

Main convenience stores in Hokkaido

Seven-Eleven

Seicomart– Hokkaido has its own chains as well so look out for the logos.

SunkusLawsonFamily Mart

Hasegawa Store (local convenience store chain in Hakodate)

ColumnBite-sized information for your enjoyment

Let’s take the chance to learn about life in Hokkaido!
Why don’t you visit supermarkets and markets frequented by
Hokkaido residents. The vegetable and fish sections will beinteresting and travelers might be surprised by the unique fish on
display such as Atka mackerel fish, scallops, salmon, and cod andsalmon roe. You don’t need to buy as it is fun just to go and look.
And if you do want to try something to eat, boxes of sushi and otherkinds of lunchboxes are available.

If you are serious about trying sushi though,why don’t you try going to a sushi restaurant?
It is fantastic to go to a local sushi bar andwatch the chefs making sushi while you sit at
the counter, and it is also fun to go toconveyor-belt sushi bars and choose yourfavorite sushi as it comes past.

For more comfortable drives

16

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

1-5. Observe rules and local customs!
Information to help you avoid trouble in local regions
Hokkaido with its cool climate is very popular with people from subtropical countries and Hokkaido residents want toheartily welcome fans of Hokkaido. However, international travelers to Hokkaido must remember that your behavior
will form people’s impression of your country. Please enjoy your trip in Hokkaido while paying attention to the points
shown below so that you, as a representative of your home country, establish a good relationship.

Do not enter farmland

Be careful with wild animals

Hokkaido farmers take much care in producing theirfarm products.
Do not enter farms (unless invited) as there is thepossibility that disease-bearing soil on the soles ofyour shoes may lead to the complete destruction ofcrops.

There are a lot of wild animals inhabiting Hokkaido.
Since wild animals live in their own fragile ecosystem,
interference by human beings may affect their ability tosurvive, and also cause them to threaten our way ofliving. Wild animals should be seen from a distance so
do not get near wild animals and definitely do not feedthem.

No littering

How to use toilets

Sightseeing spots are everyone’s assets. Garbage
should be thrown away in trash cans. If there are no
garbage cans, take your rubbish with you until you candispose of it.

Since toilets are public facilities, you must keep themclean for the next user. Toilets in convenience storesare provided for customers. There are various signs
for toilets.

!

No!

Crops may be completely
destroyed.

٨Rules regarding sorting rubbish

e.g.: Powder room, lavatory, WC, Toilet, etc.

Garbage should be sorted, and local rules followed
regarding its disposal. Empty cans and bottles as well
as plastic bottles should be separated.

Recyclable garbage

Burnable garbage

How to take a hot spring bath
As many local people bathe together and relax in public baths at hot springs, please observe the following etiquette
and usage rules.
Rule 1 Bathing suits are
Rule 2 Don’t put face or bath
Rule 3 Don’t wash yourself in the bath
towels in the water.
(wash first, in the shower area).
prohibited
No swimsuitin OnsenDon't put towels
in the bathOver there
that’s where you wash

Observe the laws and have a nice trip

17

Chapter 1 Let’s drive in Hokkaido!

Two months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

ArrivalDeparture!! in Hokkaido!!

Chapter 2 Reservation of rental cars

2-1. Basic information on rental car services䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 20
2-2. How to use car navigation systems䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶 22

2-1. Basic information on rental car services
Rental cars are necessary for Hokkaido driving trips. Please remember the basics of renting a car inJapan. In particular, you should make sure you clearly understand the insurance and compensation
system as well as what you will be financially liable for in the event of an accident.
M e m oHow to make a reservation

Things you need to communicate
to make a reservation?

You can make a reservation by telephone or via theInternet. Some car reservation centers have staff who
speak foreign languages so please confirm which ones
do via their web sites. Some rental car companies also
have English web sites so that travelers from othercountries can make reservations via the Internet.

1 Your Name
2 Contact phone number
3 Departure date/ Pick up location
4 Return date/ Return location
5 Desired car model (class/ model name)
6 The number of passengers
7 Desired option(s) (4WD, Child seat, etc.)

How to calculate the rate
Obviously rates differ from company to company anddepend on which model and class you request,
however rates can be basically calculated as follows;
Basicdaily rate
(24 hours)

Incidental fee+ The numberof days+ Hourly rate

M e m oOne-way charges (Drop-off charges)

Total amountRental car users are basically asked to return
their car to one of the following eight cities; Hakodate, Sapporo/Chitose, Asahikawa, Wakkanai,
Obihiro, Kushiro, Kitami, Nakashibetsu/Nemuro,in Hokkaido. Returning cars to shops outsidethese cities will incur a one-way (drop-off) chargeof 3,000 yen to 8,000 yen for passenger cars.

Fees for optional extras such as not returning the
car to the same location (drop-off charges) or childseats are added to the above.

The following limits of liability are often standard.
Compensation up to the limit of liability of an
insurance company (example)

Car insurance is included!
Japanese major rental car companies always include automobile liability insurance and automobile damage insurance inthe basic contract charges. In the event of a car accident or
damage to another car or people, insurance companies will
pay the compensation up to the limit of liability. Insurance
coverage should be confirmed before making a reservation.

Bodily injury

Unlimited per person (including automobile
liability insurance)

Property
damageUnlimited per accident (after the initial excess
fee of 50,000 yen is paid)
Up to the actual value per accident (after the
Car damage
initial excess fee of 50,000 yen is paid)
Up to 10 million yen per person
Passenger
injury coverage Unlimited for death of a passenger(s)M e m oWhat is the excess fee system?

What is NOC? (Non operation charge)

All insurance has a set excess amount for which
the customer (the rental car user) is responsible
for paying. Some rental car companies provide
better deals with “Recommended Courses” that
do not have an applicable excess charge andprovide for high compensation pay-outs. As
these courses usually offer emergency roadsideassistance and telephone directory assistance,
they are recommended for users who want to feelsafe and secure.

In the event of a car accident, compensation for any third
party is automatically covered by insurance. However, if
a car needs to be repaired and/or cleaned due todamage to a car, the following fee will be charged torecompense the rental car company for business lost
during the time of repairing/cleaning. If the car can still
be driven, the charge is roughly 20,000 yen, but if the car
is so damaged it cannot move, the charge will be around50,000 yen. Rental car users need to know this rule.

!

e
Is e

In the event of traffic accidents
e.g.: In the event of minor accidents in which your and the other person’s cars are damaged, insurance will cover any
damage to property and cars (in case that the rental car is not returned by its own ability). The user will be liable fora charge of up to 150,000 yen, constituting of the amount of excess for both cars (50,000 yen each), and 50,000 yen
as NOC (loss of business charge).

Let’s rent a car

20

Chapter 2 Reservation of rental cars

ԘCar rental booth(New Chitose Airport)ԙShuttle bus

2-1. Basic information on rental car services

ԚRental car office buildingԛCar rental booth

System for picking up a car

1Reception

2 Procedure (1)3 Procedure (2)࡮Complete
procedures atthe car rental
counter in the
airport࡮Be
transported by
shuttle bus tothe office.

࡮Own country’s driver’s
license࡮International driver’s
license or Japanesetranslation of foreign
driver’s license
࡮Passport and credit card
࡮Reservation
confirmation certificate

࡮Checking ofdetails of thepaperwork
࡮Travel insurance
discussed
࡮explanation of
NOC࡮All necessary
documents signed

4

Handing overof helpful tools

࡮Road maps
࡮Explanation of
how to use
Navi system
࡮Othertourism-related
information

5Checks made before getting in the car

6Your own checks

࡮Move to the car
࡮Explanation of the࡮Basic operation of the car
and the navigation system
࡮Final confirmation ofexisting scratches on thecar࡮handing over of the car
registration

࡮Conduct aninspection
before driving
࡮Confirm you
understandhow to drive
the rental car

Departure

Rent a car at the airport

Let’s look at the standard process for renting a car at a rental car office at the airport and setting out on a driving trip.
Many rental car office sites are a distance from the airport. As a result, customers are usually driven by shuttle bus
to the office after completing procedures at the car rental counter at the airport.

M e m oRegarding the driver’s license
Visitors from South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong have to bring the standard international driver’s license (asset out by the Geneva Convention) and tourists from Taiwan must bring their Taiwanese drivers’ license with anappropriate translation. A translated version of their Taiwanese license can be issued at the translation administrative office in Taiwan by completing an application form for a Japanese translation of the driver’s license.
M e m oConfirm how to drive a rental car
Put the bags in the car, and confirm you know
how to drive the car. Users who are driving a
Japanese car for the first time or themselves own
left-hand-drive cars should take care to ensure
they understand how to handle the car. As the
positions for the wipers and winkers are theopposite to normal for drivers used to driving
left-hand-drive cars, you will need to be especially careful. In addition, it is a good idea tocheck whether your gas tank is on the right or left
hand side.

Quick Business hours of
rental car companies
Tip
Make sure to ask the business hours of your rental
car company. In the event of emergencies, such as
traffic accidents and when you are delayed returning the car, it is handy to know the company’s officehours in order to be able to telephone them. In
addition, keep the telephone number noted somewhere easy to access so you can find it quickly.

Car return procedures
Users should return the cars to the shop as originally planned and give their contract to the staff at the rental car office.
Procedures are over after the user has paid any time-extension charges and the car has been checked for scratches
and dents. Offices situated at airports will then take you to the airport by shuttle bus.
M e m oIs the tank full?
Users should fill the tank when returning the car.
If the user forgets to fill the tank, a fee for gas willneed to be paid based on the cost per liter as
determined by the rental car company.

?

?

Quick Allow enough time for returningTip
a rental car at the airport
When a user returns a rental car to offices atairports, the office staff will take the user to the
airport by shuttle bus. You must therefore keep inmind how much time it will take to get to the airport
and return the rental car with plenty of time tospare.

Totally lost?
Help is here!

٨Sapporo Rental Car Association (Japanese, English)
http://sapporo-renta.com/english/(How to make reservations etc.)

21
Let’s rent a car

Chapter 2 Reservation of rental cars

2-2. How to use car navigation systems
If you get lost, not only will you lose time but you are more likely to speed to reach your destination before
sundown and this can be dangerous. Before anything else, you, should confirm your present location ona map, and use the car navigation system (GPS) in the car. Although a GPS system is included as standard equipment in rental cars, renters should make sure it’s provided at the time of the reservation. Thesesystems are very useful devices, but they are not infallible. Users should not put too much confidence inthese devices and understand their limits.

The way to utilize car navigation systems differs according to the manufacturer and the model, but thebasic functions of most systems are almost always the same. The standard operating method for thesesystems is explained below.

Basic functions Car navigation systems has functions other than guiding you towards your destination.
1. Map display, vicinity map, information to guide you to your destination 2. FM/ AM radio 3. Music CD player
The function of “Information to guide you to your destination” is focused on here.
Ways to input
How are telephone
your destination
numbers organized?
You can input the
telephone number of theplace you are planning tovisit (restaurant/hotel/
tourist spot) by touching
the telephone number
button.

Area codes are
established by area
(e.g.) Sapporo 011
ԘTouch the telephone
number button

ԙInput the telephone
number including the areacode

ԚTouch the “Completion”
buttonԛThe system will find thedestination and provide aroute once you press the“Set the destination” or“System Start” buttons.

Area code – local
telephone exchange
code – four-digit number

You can input a six- to
ten-digit number createdfor each tourist
destination through the“Map Code” button

Area codeof Sapporo

e.g. When the destination
is New Chitose Airport
ԘTouch the “Map Code”
buttonԙInput the numbers of the
Map CodeM e m oWhat is a Map Code?

123 456 789

!

e
Is e

Don’t put too much confidence
in car navigation systems.
When utilizing the device, you may find that it can only
take you to roughly the right location when using thetelephone numbers function and it does not take you
exactly to your destination. Also, if you set the wrong
destination, the system may take you in a completely
different direction. Users may not realize their mistake forsome time and end up somewhere many kilometers awayfrom their destination. This can mean that they end up
having to check-in to a hotel in the middle of the night andother bad situations. As stated earlier, these systems arevery useful, but they are not infallible. Users should not
put too much confidence in these devices and understandtheir limits. Users must use them in conjunction with
maps. It is also recommended to check your present
location on the system against the names of towns you go
through and route numbers you pass as you are driving.

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!
Get maps!

‫ع‬Road maps published by rental car
companies [English, traditional
Chinese]Distribution places: Rental car
companies’ offices and shops

ԚTouch the “Completion”
buttonԛThe system will find thedestination and provide aroute once you press the“Set the destination” or“System Start” buttons.

ColumnMap Codes are the six- to ten-digit numbers (in case ofstandard Map Codes) created to help people search fordestinations across Japan using car navigation systems.
*Map Code is the registered brand of Denso, Inc.

?

011㧙222 㧙1234

Useful function

1. Indication of distance tobe travelled is useful
By setting the destination, theGPS will show the distance toyour destination, which allows
users to calculate the timerequired to reach the destination.
It generally takes one minute totravel one kilometer when driving at an average speedof 60 km per hour. However, the speedometer is notalways reliable because it does not take into accountstops at traffic signals and the amount of traffic. It isbetter to calculate your traveling time on the basis thatone kilometer will take one minute plus a bit extra.

2. Search the surrounding
facilities“Surrounding facilities” function
can be useful to search for thenearest facilities along withsearching for your destination.
E.g. If you want to know thelocation of the nearest gas
station, touch:(1) “Destination” button (2)“Surrounding facilities” button (3)“Car” button (4) “All gas stations”
button (5) “Select among several
proposed gas stations” button

3. Listen to CD
Users can listen to CDs with the
car navigation system. Many
people question where theinsertion slot is as it is very hard
to see. (1) Push “Tilt” or “Eject”
buttons (2) Insertion slots willappear behind the screen (3)Insert a CD into the player (4)Operate using the CD operation
screen

How to use car navigation systems

22

Chapter 2 Reservation of rental carsTwo months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

ArrivalDeparture!! in Hokkaido!!

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-1. Before driving in Hokkaido䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶24
3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶25
3-3. Use expressways!䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶33
3-4. How to use gas stations䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶35
3-5. Be careful on snowy roads!䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶37

3-1. Before driving in Hokkaido
In the event of a car accident, where you injure a third party or damage property, the duty and responsibility
for this incident rests on your shoulders. The driver may be prosecuted on charges of dangerous driving
resulting in injury or death as well as corporate manslaughter, both which carry serious criminal penalties.
Appropriate knowledge and orderly behavior are essential to avoid causing traffic accidents.

Quick
Tip

Understand the important points of Japanese traffic rules.

Yield to pedestrians
In Japan, a driver must pay careful attention topedestrians when driving a car. If a pedestrian is
injured, the driver is primarily at fault for not avoiding the danger. When turning at intersections,drivers must stop to allow pedestrians to crossbefore going ahead.

Quick
Tip

wait!

Learn carefully about driving conditions unique to Hokkaido.

The number of deaths due to traffic accidents
is high in Hokkaido!

Skills are required for driving on snowy roads!
(November – April)

Although the total number of traffic fatalities has
recently decreased in Hokkaido, 2008 witnessed 228
traffic accident fatalities, making it the third ranking
worst place in the nation – that’s worse than Tokyo!
Since Hokkaido has many long and wide roads,
drivers are apt to drive too fast. This occurs particularly on roads with fewer cars, but the excessive
speeds are leading to traffic accidents that involve
death. Don’t drive too fast.

Hokkaido is one of the world’s top-class snow-covered
regions. It is difficult to drive on winter roads because
they are slippery, covered with snow and there can benear-whiteout conditions. You must acquire theappropriate knowledge and take the necessary
measures to prevent traffic accidents. Useful ideas
are also introduced in this handbook. (For further
information, refer to page 37)

wly

Drive Slo
50 km/hOK㨪!

Be careful when driving a car at night!

Lots of accidents in the countryside!

Roads far from towns have few streetlights and arevery dark. In the darkness, it may take you longer tosee pedestrians and bicycles, and also the number ofwild animals near the roads is much higher. Special
care is required for drivers who are used to only driving
on well-lit roads in towns. Since the sun sets earlier
during autumn and winter, plan your driving trip as far
as possible free from time constraints.

Hokkaido witnesses many traffic accidents at intersections where there are no traffic lights. Accidents in the
countryside most often become fatal accidents. Maintain the speed limits and make sure you check bothright and left before crossing at any intersections tomake sure you stay safe.

CRASH!!

Preparations before driving

24

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know
Although travelers from South Korea and Taiwan may be afraid of driving on the left in Japan at first, they
will gradually get used to doing so when driving on ordinary roads. However, the driver may slip back into
their normal habit at a critical moment, so it is important to remain calm but cautious while driving.

1 Left-hand traffic!

Japan basically has a left-hand traffic system.

2 Right-turning cars must wait!

Oncoming cars driving straight and turning left have right of way in principle. Right-turning
cars must wait for oncoming vehicles to go through/past before turning.

3 Never fail to stop when a traffic light is red.

26

When a traffic signal is red, not only cars going straight but also ones turning left muststop.

4 Obey arrow traffic lights.

Although a traffic light is red, cars which are turning in the direction of a green arrow traffic
signal may make a turn.

5 Always pay attention to speed limits! Legal speed limit is 60 km/h!

Speed limits on roads without traffic signs are 60 km/h on public roads and 100 km/h on
expressways.

6 Pay attention to no-overtaking zones!
Do not overtake in the no-overtaking zones.

27

your car to a complete stop at stop signs and7 Bring
in front of train crossings!

In Japan, you must stop your car at stop signs, and it is a traffic violation not to stop completely. Drivers must also stop in front of train crossings.

the traffic light in front carefully, and do not
8 Watchstart to move before the traffic light turns green!
There are traffic lights on busy streets, which stay green for longer than usual. In addition,
there are a number of unique intersections which are set up so that pedestrians andvehicles are never crossing at the same time as the traffic signals for pedestrians only
come on when all vehicles are stopped.

9 Never drink and drive!

Not drinking and driving is obvious but please note that sober passengers who travelwith a driver who has been drinking, and who may have encouraged the driver todrink will also be punished.

28

Traffic rules in Japan

25

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know

The basic points for driving in Japan are introduced here. Exclamation marks have been used for points which
may differ greatly from the rules in travelers’ own countries.

1 Left-hand traffic!

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

Roads in Japan use a left-hand traffic system. Since right-turning cars may
be waiting in the right hand lane of a two-lane road, keep driving in the leftlane if you do not intend to turn right. Don’t forget to use your indicators
when changing lanes so that cars behind know your intentions.

2 Right-turning cars must wait!

TaiwanSouth Korea

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

Drivers are asked to give way to oncoming vehicles in principle when thedriver intends to turn right. Make right turns after oncoming cars have
traveled past or turned left. Priority is given to left turns in Japan. There
are no rules regarding giving way to right-turning cars

Singapore

TaiwanFundamental rules regarding lanes
and left and right turns

ԙYield to left turning cars

STOP!
ԘYield topedestrians

Keep
left!

ԚRight-turning
Right-turning
cars wait for
the appropriate
signal to goԘYield to pedestrians

Move to the right-turn-only lane

3 Never fail to stop when a traffic light is red.
In Japan, there are hardly any roads or intersections that are “Turn left anytime” and that allow
left-turning cars to turn left even if the traffic lightis red. When the traffic light turns red, not only
cars going straight but also left-turning cars
have to stop. Wait until the traffic light becomesgreen.

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

Hong Kong
Red light

South Korea

Green light

4 Obey arrow traffic lights.

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

When the traffic light is red, all cars must in principle stop. However, where
there are arrow traffic lights provided below or at the side of the traffic
lights, you may turn in the direction the arrow points when it is green.
Right-turn arrow traffic lights are the most prevalent.
When a right-turning arrow is shown, turn quickly
while paying full attention to oncoming vehicles.
Many intersections where this type of traffic light isprovided have right-turn-only lanes.
Arrow traffic light

Taiwan26
Traffic rules in Japan

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know

5 Always pay attention to speed limits!

Legal speed limit is 60 km/h!
As there are many wide and long roads with few buildings lining them in
Hokkaido, it is easy to lose a sense of your speed, and drivers may press
down on the accelerator without thinking. Speed limits are set between 30
and 50 km/h in urban areas, and 60 km/h in the suburbs and on main
roads. It is usually 100 km/h on expressways, but it may be limited to 50
km/h in case of strong winds and/or blizzards. Due to the large number oflong roads, there are many public roads and expressways with long
distances with no signs indicating speed limits or with electric signs that are
showing no speed limits. On such roads, drivers are asked to obey thelegal speed limits (60 km/h for public roads, 100km/h for expressways).
Focus first on making a safe driving trip while paying attention to speed
limits.

Basic speed sign

Electric speed limitsign

6 Pay attention to the no-overtaking zones!
Don’t pass other cars in no-overtaking zones. It is because it is dangerous
to do so that the zone was established. For example, the roads may haveobstructed views or sharp curves ahead. Wait until the no-overtaking
zones is finished and it is safe for a driver to pass others to pass othervehicles.

Unbroken yellow center
lines indicate no passing
zones.

Broken white center lines
signify an ordinary zone.

7 Bring your car to a complete stop at stop

signs and in front of train crossings!

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

Bring your car to a complete stop to safety check left and right
In Japan, it is a strictly enforced rule that you must bring your car to a stopat stop signs, and halfway stops are not permitted. A “stop” means that a
car completely stops and the driver looks left and right. In addition, sinceV-shaped signs are peculiar to Japan, remember what they mean. Usually,no “Stop” signs are located on roads which cross other roads with Vshaped signs. In other words, cars are traveling at high speeds on the roadyou need to cross. In the event of an accident, full responsibility is apportioned to the driver who did not stop their car. Pay full attention and makesure you stop the car completely.

Each country’s stop sign

TaiwanSouth Korea

Standard layout of intersections
with a stop sign

STOP!
TaiwanSouth Korea

Singapore

Hong Kong

Japan

Completely stop a car
in front of train crossings!
Drivers must completely stop their
car in front of train crossings to
confirm that no trains are comingfrom left and right and the car canmove forward safely. If the traffic
over the train crossings is backed
up, the car will not able to move overthe crossing for a long time.

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

Hong Kong

Diagram of cars not able tomove over a train crossing

Singapore

Taiwan27
Traffic rules in Japan

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

‫⚕⴫ޣ‬㧦ᣣ㧛⧷㧛❥㧛◲㧛㖧㨋౒ㅢ‫ޤ‬‫ޤ‬

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know

8 Watch the traffic light in front carefully,

and do not start to move before
an intersection witha time-difference traffic lightЈthe traffic light turns green!
What is a time-difference traffic light?
When the traffic light for the lanes in your direction is red, the signal for the
oncoming lanes is usually red, too. Time-difference traffic lights, however,are set to be green for busy lanes longer than for the other lanes.

Standardlayout of anintersection witha time-difference
traffic light

What are separate traffic signals for pedestrians?

Standard diagram of a separated
traffic signal for pedestrians

There are separate traffic signals for pedestrians in areas where there aremany pedestrians in order to be able to keep pedestrians and vehicles
separate. When traffic lights for vehicles are green, all the traffic signals forpedestrians are red. Then, when all the traffic lights for vehicles turn red,the intersections are open for pedestrians to walk.

Vehicles cannot enter theintersections from any direction.

9 Never drink and drive!
All over the world it is now considered common sense not to drive a car
under the influence of alcohol. It is the same in Japan, however enforcement of the law and penalties for breaking it are stricter here. If alcohol is
detected by a breath test, you will be penalized with imprisonment of up to
three years or a fine of up to a 500,000 yen. Even more severe penalties
are imposed for driving while intoxicated. In Japan, drivers who refuse to
take a breath test are also punished. Sober passengers who ride together
with a drunken driver as well as those who encouraged a driver to drink will
also be punished. Never drink and drive.

Position of traffic signals
International drivers should initially pay attention to theposition where they should stop their car. Please notethat traffic lights in Japan are located on the front side ofintersections and you must stop your car rather far fromInternational comparison of traffic lights

Singapore
Japan

?

?

NO!

Bite-sized information for your benefit

ColumnPay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.

t's
thah
rig t

Singapore

Totally lost?
Help is here!

٨Bureau of Lifestyle Improvement, Department of Environment andLifestyle, Hokkaido Government “Basic knowledge of traffic safety”(Japanese, English, traditional Chinese, Korean)‫ ޓ‬http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ks/ska/saftydrive/eng/٨Toyota Rent a Car (English)‫ ޓ‬http://rent.toyota.co.jp/en/index.html

28
Traffic rules in Japan‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆࡮◲૕ሼ౒ㅢJR Sapporo Sta. JR Tower
Kita 5-jo Teine-dori

One-way streets can be frequently found in downtown
areas and on busy streets. To reach your destination,
you will have to pass the one-way street and drive in around-about way to your destination. In the central partof Sapporo, one-way streets run from south to northalternating. Drivers should learn the layout of roads atleast in the central part of the city.

Former Hokkaido
Government Office
Building
Hokkaido Assembly

Nishi 7-chome dori

One-way
streetPresent location

Hokkaido Government
Building

Sapporo Clock Tower

Route 12

SapporoTV Tower

Odori Park

Nishi yon chomeStreetcar Stop

Drive
around!

Minami 1 jo dori

Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

Destination

Susukino
Streetcar Stop

ColumnRoute 36

Bite-sized information for your benefit

Buckle up to save your life! Never forget.
It is the responsibility of not only the driver but also passengers tofasten their seatbelts. In 2008, passengers became legally required
to fasten their seatbelts, even in the back seat. All children under 6must be seated in child seats. Since rental car companies rent childseats at relatively low prices, make sure to reserve them inadvance.

Quick
Tip
For comfortable driving in Hokkaido
The total distance you cover in a driving trip should notexceed 150 kilometers per day.
That is, if a driver plans their driving routes by themselves, the total
distance of the trip should not exceed 150 kilometers per day. The
total number of hours spent driving should also be less than three tofour hours on public roads. Even if you include time for meals andsightseeing, the total driving time should not exceed the figure above.
Design the trip with spare time built in to take side trips. In addition,
it is recommended to calculate the distance between the places
where you intend to stay and plan with that information in mind.
Careful selection of places to stay will have an important effect on
your driving trips.

Avoid driving at night!
It is hard to find destinations in places you do not know at the best oftimes but as drivers face increased difficulties in finding landmarks indarkness after sunset, the chances of getting lost increase. Hokkaido
roads in the suburbs usually have no or few street lights, and they
may be darker than you imagine. Be careful especially about driving
in autumn and winter when the hours of daylight get shorter.

150 km

re do

Whe

I go?

ere
Whis
?!
this

29
What do you do in such a case?

Central part of Sapporo One-way street Review Map

Sosei River-dori

What do you do if you cannot makea turn because the road you wantto turn into is a one-way street?

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know

Sapporo Ekimae-dori

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know

When a penalty sticker is affixed to your car
As parking violations are stringently policed in Japan, be sure to park your car inappropriate parking areas or assigned lots when leaving your car, even for a shorttime. When a penalty sticker is affixed to your car, payment of a fine between
10,000 yen and 18,000 yen will have to be made (in the case of passenger cars).

When a parking fine sticker is attached to a rented car
1. Reporting to a police station
Report to the police station indicated on the parking sticker immediately.

2.Pay the fine
When you go to the police station, complete the necessary documents
and you will receive a payment notice. Pay the illegal parking fine at thenearest financial institution (bank etc) and get a receipt.

3.Report to the rental car company

Present the completed forms for the penalty and your receipt

M e m oMake a phone call to the number
shown here.

You must inform the rental car company of any parking fines!

When a parking fine sticker is affixed to a car, the owner is contacted and informed of the violation through thelicense plate (in this case, the rental car company). Go through the formalities by following the instructions of
the police before returning your rented car.

!

e
Is e

Make sure you know the areas in which parking is banned
There are many people from other countries who violate the parking regulations in Japan. According to asurvey by rental car companies, the arrest rate for illegal parking by people from abroad is eight times therate of Japanese. Check the areas where parking is banned by checking traffic signs and lane markings.

The policing of on-street parking
is very stringent. Where, then,should a driver park their car?
The policing of parking and penalties for violation became very stringent
after revision of the law in June 2006. A driver cannot park their car justanywhere, so please park your car after checking the parking signs. Whena parking fine sticker is affixed to your car, payment of a fine between
10,000 and 18,000 yen is required (in the case of passenger cars). Fromthe start, park your car in parking lots .

ColumnBite-sized information for your benefit

Small soba noodle shops or curry-andrice restaurants in regional towns may
provide no or few parking lots. Even inthese cases, never park your car on theroad. As the shop may provide parking
lots a little further from the shop, ask theshop staff for information.

Is there aparking lot ?

No Parking signs
No Parking and No StoppingThis sign indicates anarea where parking andstopping is prohibited.
Drivers cannot park oreven stop their car onroads with this sign. The “8-20” in theupper part of the sign indicates the timeof day for which this sign is applicable,
i.e. between 8:00 – 20:00.

No parking zone
This sign indicates a no
parking zone. On roads
with this sign, a drivercannot park the car
except to let off passengers or take on or drop off things. The“8-20” in the upper part of the sign
indicates the time of day for which thissign is applicable, i.e. between 8:00 –20:00.

30
What do you do in such a case?

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-2. Traffic rules in Japan you need to know
Look out for this sign.

Use pay parking meters!
If you wish to park your car temporarily, use pay parking meters. It isrelatively easy to find and use pay parking meters. Parking spaces aremarked with white enclosing lines drawn on the streets in the area where
the sign at right is posted. A fee must be paid in advance and you can only
pay for a fixed amount of time.
Park your car in a

1 designated space.

P60

分

A parking ticket will be

Insert coins in the parking

Affix the parking ticket inside the

分

8-20

2 ticket vending machine.

so that it is visible from
4 windshieldoutside.

P60

Parking Meter

3 dispensed.

Check the expiration time for the ticket. You needas it will be a parking violation if your
5 tocarbeis carefulparked more than 60 minutes.

Use both private and public parking facilities!
Parking fees vary among locations. In this handbook you will be given information on parking fees in Sapporo’s city
center, the hardest place to find parking in Hokkaido. The department stores and shopping malls you may visit will
have contract parking lots. Be sure to check in advance if they offer free parking if you spend a certain amount ofmoney in their shop. Fee structures vary from one parking lot to the next. Some parking lots charge a flat all-day rate(about 1,000 – 2,000 yen) whether you park for a short period (around 20 minutes) or hours.
Regarding the current going rates (as of January 2009), fees around Sapporo Station are roughly 100 yen for 20
minutes and 300 to 340 yen an hour, whereas in the Odori area , fees range from 100 yen for 15 minutes and 400 to
500 yen an hour. Needless to say, there are cheaper places to park outside the center city area.

Public Underground
Parking Lots

Multilevel/Tower
Parking Garages

Self-Service
Coin Parking

There are three large underground parking lots in central
Sapporo. They are so large andspacious that you can easily finda parking space but if you do notremember to note where you
parked (such as noticing thenumber on the column nearest
your car) you may be unable tofind your car, so be careful.

There are no large parking lotsin the city center where there isa lack of space. Most parking
lots are either multilevel or tower
parking lots.

There are inexpensive
self-service coin parking lots that allow you
to park near the street.
After you park yourcar, wheel-clamps will automaticallyrise into place to keep your wheels
from moving. To remove your car, go
to the car park pay meter, enter thestall number where you parked using
the numeric keys and pay the parking
fee. This will automatically release
the wheel-clamps.

Sapporo Station
North Exit
Underground
Parking Lot>170 per 1/2 hr.
Mon – Sat
8:00 – 22:00

Other
Tower Parking
Followingtheattendant’s instructions, cars need tobe driven onto aplatform that will be lifted like anelevator. To retrieve your car, givethe ticket you received from theattendant when parking back tohim/her and your car will be
brought back down to the mainlevel.

Kita Ichijo
Underground
Parking Lot>190 per 1/2 hr.
7:30 – 22:00

Sapporo Odori
Underground
Parking Lot>380 per hr.
08:00ޯ22:00?

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!
Handy
WebsiteMultilevel Parking
Get a ticket at theentrance
gate.
Drive into the lot,
ascend the spiralramp and park in an available
space. To exit, drive your car
down the spiral ramp, insert yourticket and money in the machine.

There are, of course,
the good old conventional parking lotswith a pay booth at
the entrance with anattendant sitting inside and you
leave your car key with him/her. If
you wish to obtain information on
the area, it may be a good idea to
use this type of parking lot so you
can ask the attendant questions.

Japanese only

Sapporo Parking Information System

http://parking-info.jp/sapporo/pc/index.php

It is a Japanese only website, but the maps and photos are helpful.

31
Using a parking lot

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

32

COMFORTABLE DRIVINGIN HOKKAIDO

3-3. Use expressways!
Since Hokkaido is big, it is often necessary to travel large distances to move from one place to the next. In
particular, if your plans include driving across some large cities with many traffic lights and heavy traffic,
using expressways will lead to substantial time savings. Use them wisely.

If you make sure in advance that you know: 1. Your present location, 2. The locationof the entrance, and 3. The name of the exit you need to take, you will be alright.
4

⧴ዊ’

5

1

Confirm where the entrance to theexpressway is, which will be on agreen sign.

2

Obtain a ticket at the General Gate
(一般).

3

Proceed in the direction of yourdestination

4

Be sure to know the exit for yourdestination and get off theexpressway by following the green
signs

5

After leaving the expressway, pay theapplicable fee at the tollbooth.

3ᧅᏻ
'6% ৻⥸'6% ৻⥸

2

1

Where is the entrance?
Enter the expressway at the entrance referred to as IC (interchanges) suchas “Chitose IC.” All the road signs for local streets are blue in color, however,since all the locations for interchanges are marked in green, look out forgreen signs while driving.

道央自動車道札幌 恵庭
Sapporo

Eniwa

HOKKAIDO EXPWY

5 千歳
Chitose

道央道 35 長沼

HOKKAIDO

35

Naganuma

37

Which gate should I use?
There are general lanes, ETC lanes and dual use lanes at the entrance. The
ETC lanes require an ETC card which foreign visitors cannot obtain so use
the green “general lane.”

Which way should I go?
After passing the gate, the road will split in 2 directions. You must choose thelane that will take you in the direction of where you wish to go. As the signs
show the names of cities, it is a good idea to check the geographgical locationof the major city and IC (interchange) in advance. If, by any chance, you findyourself heading in the opposite direction from where you intended to go, stay
calm, get off the expressway at the next IC and start over again.

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The reason why you cannot use
the ETC only lanes

An ETC Card is used exclusively to pay expressway tolls and other related fees. It identifies
the payer and the payment is automatically charged to the user’s credit card or bank accountthat has been registered with the ETC system. However, since the ETC Card requires the user An example of an ETC Card
to have a bank account in Japan or be authenticated by a Japanese credit card company, it will㜞ㅦੱCARDtake time to have one issued. Hence, unfortunately it is difficult for a visitor to obtain an ETC‫“ޓ‬E-NEXCO pass”
Card as things currently stand. Be careful of the ETC lanes as only cars that are set up to use
the ETC Card system can use these lanes.

Let’s use expressways

33

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-3. Use expressways!

The flat rate toll used in Sapporo must be pre-paid!
At the IC entrances in Sapporo, a toll booth and not a ticket dispenser will greet you immediately. The system here
calls for a prepayment of the flat fee (\400 for passenger cars).

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This is how the tolls in Sapporo work!
Chitose IC
1

Sapporo-kita IC
2

Receive a ticket
at Chitose IC.

Sapporo-kita IC

Chitose IC

Pay \400

Users pay \1,250 once (this includes the 400 yen flat fee)
At Sapporo-minami
Main Line Toll Booth,pay \1,250(passenger cars).

Users pay twice.

3\400 + \850 = \1,250

Receive a ticket at

1 (passenger cars)

2 Sapporo-minami

at Sapporo-kita IC.

Get off the expressway at
Sapporo-kita IC.

Main Line Toll Booth.

Pay \850

3 (passenger cars)
at Chitose IC.

Speed Limit

Toll Booths

Speed limits are variable and willchange depending on the weather
and/or road conditions. If there areno signs, the speed limit is 100
km/hr. Always check the speed
limit signs while driving.

To use expressways, users obtain a ticket from adispenser at the entrance gate and pay the applicabletoll, which varies by the distance traveled, to an attendant at the exit. To pay, cash or the following credit
cards are accepted (no need to sign the transactionslip):JCB Card, NICOS Card, American Express Card,
Diners Club Card, VISA Card and MasterCard.

Drive in the Cruising Lane
(Keep Left)!
A 2-lane expressway is divided into the “cruising lane” and “passing
lane.” Under normal conditions, stay in the cruising lane on the left
hand side (keep left). Only pass in the right-hand lane. As this roadtraffic (expressway) regulation is strictly enforced, it is advisable toreturn to the cruising lane after having passed another vehicle.

?

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!
Handy
Website

The expressway toll schedule(passenger cars) can be
downloaded from the Internet.

Japanese only
Dora-Pla E-NEXCO Drive Plaza
http://www.driveplaza.com/route/pdf110620/hokkaido/pdfs//hk_normarfee.pdf

34
Let’s use expressways

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-4. How to use gas stations

Refuel at a self-service gas station!
Here is an introduction about how to use self-service gas stations.
*Since the system may be different depending on the gas stations, we are giving you just one
example here. At some gas stations, drivers pay the amount they owe for the gasoline to thestaff at the register after refueling.

1

Stop your car alongside the petrol pump
Stop your car alongside the petrol pump keeping in mind which side your
petrol tank is on. Make sure you know in advance which side your petrol tankis on. Park the car and turn off the engine.

2

Pay first
The fee should be paid beforehand, and cash and credit cards may be used.
(1) Cash: Insert the amount of money in the loading slot.
If a driver intends to refuel by 30 l, insert approximately 5,000 to 6,000 yen
in bills. The cost is calculated by multiplying the unit costs (per liter) by theamount of gasoline (l) you used, and any change owed will be repaid into
the coin return slot.
(2) Credit card: Activate the card by inserting it.
Insert your credit card into the appropriate slit and swipe it through thereader to load the data.

3

Select the gasoline type and thevolume (number of liters)
Select the gasoline you wish to use by pushing the button for either premier,
regular or light gasoline. Rental car users usually choose regular. The
amount of petrol can be selected in two ways: choose one of 10 l, 20 l, 30 l50 l options or select 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, 3,000 yen5,000 yen. If
a driver wants to fill their car up, MA-N-TA-N should be selected.

4

Refueling
Open your petrol tank, pick up the nozzle for the gasoline you have selected,
insert the nozzle into your tank firmly. There are usually three types ofnozzles, so make sure you select the right type of petrol. Petrol types arealways indicated by the same colors. Pull the lever to start refueling. Whenyou have finished refueling, is the petrol will stop automatically (The drivercannot pull the lever anymore).

5

Refueling completed.
Return the nozzle to the pump, and close the cap of your petrol tank firmly.
Confirm the amount of gasoline and the charge shown on the display. Don’t
forget to pick up your change when you pay by cash. A receipt is printed out
automatically for use of both cash and credit cards.

Quick
Tip

Gasoline isdangerous!

Needless to say, fire, such as cigarettes, must be put out while you
are filling your car. If gasoline catches fire, it will be very dangerous.
As static electricity is also dangerous, do not forget to touch a static
electricity removal sheet before starting to refuel. Use of mobile
phones is also prohibited.

36
Refueling

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

3-5. Be careful on snowy roads!
In Hokkaido, there are many winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding and enjoying hot springs. Since the baggage required for these activities tends to be big, this is when rental cars can be very convenient.
Winter roads, however, require advanced driving skills. Remember thisbasic knowledge to avoid serious trouble.

Slippery!
Compacted-snow roads are roads on which snow has
fallen and then been pressed down and compacted by
the movement of vehicles. Icy roads (Eisbahn) arethose that are covered with thin ice formed by therefreezing of snow that fell and then melted on theroads, and these are especially slippery. Winter roads
are very dangerous, because once a car skids, it ishard to control it.

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Dry pavement

During the winter season, rental cars
are always equipped with snow tires(for use on winter roads).

Approx. 10 m

Compactedsnow road

Approx. 35 m

Results ofa full-braking test
at 50 km/h

Frozen roads(Eisbahn)

Approx. 112 m(Extracted from the Web site by the Hokkaido Government’s Department ofEnvironment and Lifestyle, Safe Living Environment Promotion Division)

Don’t be tricked by black icy roads (Eisbahn)!
Black Eisbahn is the worst type of icy roads. The road is covered with refrozen melted snow after rain. They looka little like wet roads, however, they are the slipperiest roads. Be very careful on black shiny roads in winter!

Rental car users who intend to drive on

It’s impossible to see!
Strong snowstorms can obstruct
your view forward and snow being
blown up from the road may also
lead to low visibility. In addition, yourrange of vision may be reduced suddenly due to powdery
snow blown up by oncoming trucks. Drivers just have toslow down in such situations.

Getting stuck!

If you drive into deep snow, you
may not be able to get your carout. As far as is possible, findcleared roads or drive along
wheel tracks left by other cars.

Quick winter roads for the first time should
ask for a car equipped with ABS* whenTip
they make their reservation.
*ABS㧦This Anti-lock Brake Systemallows drivers to maintain steering
control and avoid an accident evenunder heavy braking. However, it canalso present disadvantages including
increased braking distance on slippery
surfaces, such as on ice, or smoothroads. ABS should not be solely relied
upon .

Quick Are brakes broken?
Tip

Things you must not do!
“Sudden braking,” “Sudden acceleration,” “Abrupt steering”
Your wheels will lock up (continue to slide without your tires
moving) if you brake suddenly and your car get out of control
so avoid this.

Drivers, who use ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) for the firsttime, may be surprised with how they function. When
wheels lock (continue to slide without your tires moving)on frozen roads, a loud sound can be
Gaaaar!
heard at the moment of braking. Thisis the noise cased by the actuation of
the device to control the brakes
automatically. Drivers need not easeup on the brakes in a hurry.

Three key points to driving in winterDrive slowly

Keep a safe distance between cars.

Understand the traffic conditions ahead

The basic point is not toincrease your speed. Driving
slowly will give you time to
avoid danger should the needarise.

Keeping a safe distance between
you and the car ahead gives you
enough time to react and copewith emergency situations.

Many winter traffic accidents are caused bya delay in drivers understanding traffic
conditions ahead. Pay attention to thebrake lamps of the front two cars as well as
trafficconditions
ahead.

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Learn how to use the engine to brake!
Cars accelerate automatically on down grades. In such cases, drivers should use not brakes but theengine to brake to control the speed. Using the engine to control speed is achieved by utilizing thepower of the gears and changing the mode of the automatic transmission from D (drive) to S (or 3
or 2 according to models). Be sure to change the gear slowly while slowing the car down.

Knowledge about winter driving

37

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆࡮◲૕ሼ㨋౒ㅢ ‫ޤ‬3-5. Be careful on snowy roads!

Tips about winter driving
M e m o1 Windshield wipers are frozen and they don’t work
Wet wipers will get stuck to the windshield when frozen. You can avoid
this by lifting the wiper arms off the windshield and leaving them like thatovernight.

2 It is bright on sunny days
It is very dazzling when the sun reflects off the snow in winter. It is agood idea to carry sunglasses to combat the glare.

of snow come crashing down
3 Clumps
onto the car roof
Before driving be sure to remove any snow that has accumulated on the
car roof. Otherwise clumps of snow may slide down the windshield
without warning while driving and may block your view.

4 How slippery is it?
If you test your brakes while driving at a low speed and where you know
it is safe to do so, you will learn how slippery the road is that day. Don'tever do this when there are cars in front of or behind you.

5 Melted snow from the car in front is showering your car
There are times when melted snow off the car in front or splashed up byoncoming vehicles covers your windshield and reduces visibility. Be
sure to maintain a sufficient amount of windshield washer fluid in yourcar at all times. A winter formula that provides anti-freeze protection canbe purchased at auto supply shops and home centers.

6 Everywhere is white and I cannot tellwhere the road is

In blizzard conditions, you cannot see what is ahead. Blowing snowcaused by strong winds may reduce visibility. Drifting snow blown up byoncoming trucks will also obstruct your view for a moment. In thesesituations, remember to reduce your speed and drive slowly.

Stay home when the weather is bad!‫ޓ‬In winter, weather conditions can change suddenly in some areas. Also, some areas do not have reception for cell
phones. If you are stranded in one of these places you will be unable to call for help and will freeze in the extreme
cold. It could take hours before the rescue party arrives and your life will be at risk. If bad weather is forecast therefore, do not go out even if this means you have to change your plans.

?

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!

For more information on things to keep in mind about winter driving
٨“Basic Knowledge of Road Safety,” (Available in: Japanese, English, Traditional
Chinese and Korean) issued by Department of Environment and Lifestyle, Hokkaido
Government‫ ޓ‬http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ks/ska/saftydrive/eng/

38
Knowledge about winter driving

Chapter 3 Traffic rules and quick tips

Arrival
Two months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

Departure!!

in Hokkaido!!

Chapter 4 What should you do in asituation like this?

4-1. If you are in a car accident or have committed a traffic violation䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶40
4-2. If you have an injury or illness䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶
41

42
4-3. If you have weather-related trouble䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶
43
4-4. If your car breaks down䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶
4-5. If your car is hit by a wild animal䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶44

4-1. If you are in a car accident or have committed
a traffic violation

40

You never think that you will run into trouble during your vacation but that is actually what you should beconcerned about most. If you know how to handle emergencies, you will be anxiety-free and able to act
without panicking in extreme situations.‫ޓ‬

Car accidents

Chapter 4 What should you do ina situation like this?

I don’t understand Japanese. What should I do? ЈSee Page 46
First, ask a Japanese person who is on the scene for help. He/she should be able to explain the situation at the scene to thepolice and fire department personnel. If there is no one nearby, call the police and tell them the “situation” and “location.”
Stay calm and check the car navigation system for the location.

What if I had an accident?
If you had a major accident in which you are seriously injured, you will have no choice but to wait for someone to help. The
question is what you should do when you hit another car or hurt someone. It is important to deal with the situation calmly.
First of all, it is essential to ensure that a second accident will not occur. You should learn the following procedure:

What to do when an accident happens
ԘMake the area as safe
as possible

ԙDial 119 to call an
ambulance

Look around you and make anassessment as to what actions arenecessary to make the area safe,
such as moving your car so that it is
not blocking traffic, moving any
injured person(s) to a safe location,and so on.

Call an ambulance if someone isinjured. It may be necessary to givethe injured person first aid in orderto stop bleeding while waiting for an
ambulance.

ԚDial 110 to call thepolice and follow theirinstructions
Call the police and give a detailed
description of the accident. Be sure
to contact the police as you willneed an accident report for compensation at a later date.

ԛContact your car
rental company
Finally, call your car rental company
and follow their instructions. The
car rental company will make all
arrangements including contacting
the insurance company, moving
your car, and other related matters.

Be sure to report it no matter how small the accident is

Do not negotiate a settlement on the scene.

Even if you had a single car accident and your car is still road-worthy, besure to report it to the car rental company. It may be necessary to reportto the police as well in some cases.

In the case of a minor accident, the other party may offer to settle thematter with cash on the spot. However, you will be at a disadvantage
if you are unfamiliar with the rules and regulations involved. It is safer
to decline his/her offer and follow the instructions of the car rental
company.

Information you should give when calling 110 and 119‫ޓ‬
See Page 46 for “Phrases to use (by pointing) in Emergency Situations”.
“There was an accident and ‘x’ number of people were injured. The
location is …. (give location) my name is …. My phone number is ...., andcell phone number is ……..

Be sure to identify the other party
Give the other party your information and obtain the other party’s
information. Additionally, if you have a camera, it would be a goodidea to take photos of the scene.
٨Your name, address and phone numbers and those of the other party
٨Your driver’s license number and that of the other party

Quick On expressways, use the “Emergency Telephone!”Tip
If you have an accident or if your car breaks down on an expressway, make the area safe by parking your car
on the shoulder and turning on your emergency blinkers or use a triangle reflector to alert other vehicles of theemergency situation, then contact the road authorities. If you use the “Emergency Telephone” instead of yourcell phone, your present location will automatically be notified to the rescue crew. “Emergency Telephones”
are installed every 1 km so you will be able to find one within 500 m, either ahead of you or behind.

Status of accidents involving foreign visitors using rental cars
Watch out when you have become familiar with your vehicle and an area.
Be more careful in the latter part of your trip than at the start٨Accidents happen when foreign visitors move into the opposite lane after
making a right/left turn (due to being used to right-hand lane traffic.)

Having entered the wrong traffic lane, foreign visitors canpanic and collide with oncoming cars or cars behind them.

Collision withthe vehicle behindWhenturning right

Abrupt movement
into the left laneWhenturning left

Pay attention to the differencesfrom your own country.
Taiwan

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Korea

When exitinga parking lot

The accident that happens most frequently in parking lots iscaused by drivers not checking to see what is behind their cars.
Cars are parked very close to each other and visibility is often poor in parking lots due todim lighting. Additionally, being in an “unfamiliar car” may contribute to errors in perception regarding the width of the vehicle. The most frequent cause of accidents is a lack ofsufficient attention to things behind the car. If you park forwards, you will need to back out
when you leave. This means that you will have many blind spots and it is highly possiblethat you will end up in an accident. If possible, park by slowly backing into a space so you
can leave the parking space in a forwards direction and be able to see clearly.

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Report it to the police even if it is a small accident!
Although you have insurance, it will not apply if you do not report an accident. You will become responsible forthe full cost of the accident. Therefore, be sure to report any accident to the police however minor it may seem.

41

4-2. If you have an injury or illness

What should you do if you are injured or suddenly become ill while driving?
How you handle a situation where you are injured or become ill during the trip will vary depending on time, place andyour symptoms.

Check your symptoms

Check your symptoms calmly and work out how to handle the situation. *If you have a
pre-existing medical condition, be sure to consult with your family physician prior to the trip.

Dial 119

Go to the hospital
Don’t continue on regardless but
instead put the trip on hold and go
to the nearest hospital. Generally
Japanese hospitals are open to
outpatients during the week.

If you are injured or ill during
non-business days or after hours

Go to an emergency center or to adoctor on call
For people seeking medical care outside business hours,
emergency medical facilities (emergency centers and otherrelated facilities) or doctors on call are available in Japan. Ask
the Japanese people around you and they should be able tosuggest an appropriate hospital. It is also safe to ask people
at a tourist bureau or stores.

If a serious injury or sudden illness
develops, call 119 and you can get an
ambulance.
You will be asked where you are andwhat your symptoms are, so ask aJapanese person near you for help.

Quick Local residents are the best source of
medical service information!
Tip
Information about medical services is an important part oflocal residents’ lives. If you are unwell, do not hesitate to ask
them for help. You should be able to communicate that you“want to go to the hospital” using signs and gestures.
To explain your symptoms, see Page 46 for “Phrase to use(by pointing) in Emergency Situations.”

What about paying the doctor’s fee?‫ޓ‬
Since the Japanese health insurance system applies only to Japanese people, you will be charged the full amount forany medical treatment received. The amount will vary depending on the symptoms, treatment and any medicationthat is issued. You may have to be prepared to pay in the range of tens of thousands of yen. Since virtually no hospitals yet accept credit cards, you will have no choice but to pay by cash. If you have overseas travel insurance, you
should be able to claim a refund from the insurance company later. Ask the hospital to fill out the insurance claim formor to issue a medical certificate. Keep your receipt for the medical costs in a safe place.

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An example of 3-way phoneinterpreting service

There is 3-Way Phone
Interpreting Service!
Some of the major car rental companies offer a
3-way phone interpreting service! This is a 3-way
simultaneous conference call system which uses
an operator who can translate your conversation.
ԘUser calls the car rental company. User hangs up thephone.
↓‫ޓ‬
ԙThe car rental company dials the special number forthe 3-way conference call.
↓‫ޓ‬ԚUser receives the call and the 3-way conversation
begins.

Quick
Tip

ԘUser calls the car rental
company
7ser hangs up the phone
Car rental
company

Rental caruser

3-way telephone callԙThe car rental
company dials the
special number for
3-way conference calls

ԚUser receives
the call andthe 3-way
conversation
begins.
Interpreter/
Operator

Get a cell phone before coming to Japan!

The number of pay phones has steadily decreased as cell phones became more
popular in Japan. Be sure to carry a ”cell phone” as a means of communication incase of emergencies.
If your cell phone supports ”GSM 3G,” you can use it as it is in Japan. Before
you leave your country, check with your cell phone service provider as to whether
your cell phone is set up for international roaming. If your cell phone cannot be
used, you can rent one that supports 3G at the airport or other places.

Using a cell phone while driving is strictly prohibited!

Injuries or illnesses while driving

Chapter 4 What should you do ina situation like this?

‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆ ‫ޤ‬4-3. If you have weather-related trouble

What should you do if the road is closed due to heavy rainfall or a blizzard?
If by any chance the road is closed, it is important to gather as much information as you can. Since weather information
may be available only in Japanese, ask the Japanese people around you for help.

Gather information

1

First of all, gather: 1. weather information, 2. road information and 3. information on the public transportation system. Be especially careful
to do this if it is the last day of your trip and you have your flight home to catch. Check to see if there is any other means of transportation
to make your return flight.

Travel by an alternative method of transportation

2

Consider alternative means of travel if there is no hope of a road closure being lifted or weather conditions improving. If public transport
is available, return the rental car to the nearest office and switch to public transport such as trains or airplanes. The first thing you will needto do will be to secure some reservations/tickets.

Make all the necessary phone calls
Contact the car rental company if you are returning your vehicle to the nearest office. Contact the airlines that are operating your return
flight and let them know beforehand your present situation, what time you expect to arrive at the airport, and that you will be delayed.
Additionally, if it doesn’t seem like you will make the return flight, discuss a reservation change with the airlines. If you are in transit, don't
forget to contact the hotel that you have booked for that night and report your situation to them.

3

There are two major poor weather conditions that havea major impact on transportation systems in Hokkaido
Blizzards

Typhoons

During the winter between
December and March, the winterpressure pattern sets in andcreates an atmospheric pattern of“western highs and eastern lows.”
When this happens, the wind will
pick up and will often bringblizzard conditions. Caution isneeded when this happens.

Typhoons are not very common in
Hokkaido but there have been more
incidents of them in recent years.
There may be some major rainstorms
and windstorms in August and
September. Caution is needed andyou should check traffic information forlandslides during heavy rainstorms.

*Other: Although they are not common, localized snowstorms and rainstorms can occur throughout Hokkaido. Be careful since thetransportation system may be paralyzed in such circumstances.

If a blizzard or typhoon is forecast, it will influence traffic conditions
significantly, so be sure to check road information right away.

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Take advantage of Michi-no-Eki (Road Stations)
Information terminals offering road information are available in Michino-Eki (Road Stations). If you have no other access to the internet, you
can check road information there.

?

?

Totally lost?
Help is here!

How do I find road information or details of weather/road conditions in the mountains?
In Hokkaido, there are many summits when traveling over a big mountain range and, due to the high elevation, weather conditions
around the summit areas can be completely different from that on the plains. As weather conditions can change suddenly, be sureto have sufficient information at all times and be sure also to learn the names of the major summits that are included in your plannedroute. Information on snowfalls and gale winds are essential for winter driving and must be checked before you start a trip. Consider
changing the route or plan, if necessary.

1. Weather information
is available in
English on thewebsites at right.

Japan Meteorological
AgencyJapan Weather Association

http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html (English only)

http://www.njwa.jp/
eweather/ (English only)

2. Road informationand summit
information areavailable on thewebsites at right.

Weather information for the summit
areas and road information areavailable in foreign languages on thewebsite given below:

Although it is available only inJapanese, the following website is
the most useful to get the latest
information on road closures andother related matters.

3. Information on theoperating conditions
for public transport
is available on thewebsite at right.

Flight information for arrivals/
departures is also available.

Northern Road Navi

http://northern-road.jp/
navi/eng/ (English, Traditional
Chinese, Simplified Chinese andKorean)

New Chitose Airport Terminal
Building (English, Traditional

Hokkaido Development
Bureau Hokkaido Regional
Road Information

http://info-road.hdb.go.jp/
index.htm (Japanese only)
Operating conditions for the railways
are available only in Japanese but it
can be useful to check the headings.

Chinese, Simplified Chineseand Korean)

JR Hokkaido (English,

http://new-chitose-airport.jp/
en/

http://www2.jrhokkaido.co.
jp/global/

Traditional Chinese and Korean)

42
Weather-related problems

Chapter 4 What should you do ina situation like this?

Car problems and what to do
You may run into various car troubles including a dead battery, keys locked
inside the car, driving into ditches, etc. First of all, the top priority is tocontact your car rental company but please note that services to help fix
these problems are not free and you will be charged.

Are there stress-free service offerings that help you
deal with emergency situations?
‫ع‬Service plans offered by major car rental companies

Examples of a plan offeredby one of the car rental
companies

Companies offer various service plans called “Stress-Free Plan” and other product names that offer roadsideservices, road information service, etc., so make sure you take advantage of them.

1. Roadside Service(4 free roadside services
included)٨Changing your tire when you
get a flat tire
٨Supplying gasoline when
you run out of fuel٨Jump-starting a dead battery
٨Unlocking your car if youlock your keys inside

2. Telephone assistanceservice available forwhen you are in trouble
٨Alternative means of transportation
٨Lodging
٨Transferring your phone call to
JAF (Japan Automobile
Federation)
٨Finding a gasoline stand٨Highway information

3. Hassle-free late returns

4. Hassle-free early cancellations
5. Additional insurance coverage‫ع‬Consult with the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF)‫ޓ‬Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) is open 24 hours a day/7 days a week and offers nationwide roadside services.
They will come to your location to assist with a dead battery or keys locked in free of charge if you are a JAF member.
JAF also offers various services to non-members for fees.

Calling the JAF Roadside Service

If you cannot use the phone number at left,

0570-00-8139
Alternatively, dial a speed number 㧏8139 (There is a charge)
There is a charge for calling(Navi Dial)(>10/minute for home phones and >10/20 seconds for cell phones)

!

e
Is e

Be sure to carry proof ofyour membership in the
Automobile Association!

Members of automobile clubs participating in reciprocity agreements with
the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) can receive the JAF
roadside service under the same conditions as JAF members. If you are amember of the Hong Kong Automobile Association (HKAA) or Automobile
Association of Singapore (AAS), be sure to bring proof of your membership.
‫ع‬Reciprocal services of Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA)Automobile clubs affiliated with FIA in each country/region offer services totheir mutual members under the FIA reciprocal agreement. Automobile clubs
in over 60 countries worldwide are now offering various services to theirmembers under the umbrella of FIA following the terms of the membershipagreement.
*With respect to Taiwan and Korea, while they are affiliated with FIA, they are notparticipating in the reciprocal agreement. Hence, as a general rule, members in thosecountries are ineligible to receive services in Japan.

call Hokkaido Call Center at

011-857-8139

Hong Kong Special
Administrative Region(Hong Kong)
Hong Kong Automobile
Association (HKAA)
Tel:
Internet:
E-mail:(+852)3583 3638
http://www.hkaa.com.hk/
general@hkaa.com.hk

Singapore
Automobile Association ofSingapore (AAS)
Tel:
Internet:
E-mail:(+65)6333 8811
http://www.aas.com.sg/
aasmail@aas.com.sg

Car troubles

43

4-4. If your car breaks down

Chapter 4 What should you do ina situation like this?

‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆࡮❥૕ሼ㨋౒ㅢ ‫ޤ‬44

4-5. If your car is hit by a wild animal

What if your car hits a wild animal?
Hokkaido is rich in wildlife. Caution is needed while driving as wild animals
such as foxes and raccoons may run across the road.
There are many ezo deer in Hokkaido (particularly in eastern Hokkaido.)
While ezo deer may look adorable from a distance, they are actually large
animals. Some of them weigh more than 100 kg and there have been fatal
accidents caused by cars hitting ezo deer crossing the road. If your car hits
an ezo deer, it will be an “accident” causing property damage. You certainly should contact the police if this happens(particularly as it will be necessary to “report to the police” to have damage insurance cover the car repairs.) Whenmaking a report to the police, you can ask the police to contact the road authorities for that jurisdiction for the removalof the dead deer as it may cause additional accidents if it remains on the road.

Seasons for ezo deer sightings‫ع‬April – June: Be aware that ezo deer come down to the foot of the mountains from the summit areas where they
ordinarily live.
‫ع‬October – March: Watch for ezo deer while driving over the summits. The number of accidents peaks during
October and November.

Times of day when most accidents happen that involve ezo deer‫ع‬Many accidents happen between 16:00 – 20:00 around sunset, and 4:00 – 6:00 a.m., around dawn

Areas where ezo deer-related accidents happen the most frequently.
A map of accident sites (examples)

A map of ezo deer-related accident sites in Kushiro and
NemuroExcerpts from the website of Kushiro Development andConstruction Department
http://www.ks.hkd.mlit.go.jp/road/etc/shika/shika_top.html

A map of ezo deer-related accident sites in the Kitami
City area
Excerpts from the website of Abashiri Development andConstruction Department‫ޓޓ‬
http://www.ab.hkd.mlit.go.jp/topics/kitami_ezosika/

Japanese only

Japanese onlyM e m oCaution!
Wild
Animals
Crossing?

?

Be careful if you see this road sign.
There are a variety of signs warning of ezo deer crossing the road in addition to the road signs.
Most are pictorial signs and they are easy to understand.

Totally lost?
Help is here!

Read the “When you drive, be aware of deer!” section in the “Shiretoko
Eco-Road” information on the Abashiri Development and Construction
Department’s website
http://www.ab.hkd.mlit.go.jp/douro/ecoroad/eco_c_06.html(English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese and Korean)

Collision with a wild animal

Chapter 4 What should you do ina situation like this?

Two months
before the trip

One month
before the trip

One week
before the trip

ArrivalDeparture!! in Hokkaido!!

Information(1) Phrases to use (by pointing) in an emergency䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶46(2) Telephone numbers and websites of related organizations 䊶䊶䊶48(3) Helpful information䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶䊶51

Phrases to use (by pointing) in an emergency
In emergency situations, try to convey what you want to say by speaking Japanese no matter how
rudimentary it may be while pointing at the phrases on this sheet.

Explaining the conditions
and location

Seeking help

“Car Accident” Sectionᣣᧄ⺆䈏䈪䈐䉁䈞䉖⼊ኤ䉕๭䉖䈪䈒䈣䈘䈇ᢇᕆゞ䉕๭䉖䈪䈒䈣䈘䈇

nihongo ga dekimasen

keisatsu wo yonde kudasai

kyukyusha wo yonde kudasai

I don’t speak Japanese.

Please call the police.

Please call an ambulance.

䈔䈏ੱ䈏䈇䉁䈜

੤ㅢ੐᡿䈪䈜

㪈ੱ䋯㪉ੱ䋯㪊ੱ

koutsuu jiko desu

kega nin ga imasu

hitori䋯futari䋯sannin

There has been an accident.

There are injured persons.

1 person/2 people/3 people䈖䈖䈏䈬䈖䈎䉒䈎䉍䉁䈞䉖䈖䈖䈱૑ᚲ䉕ᢎ䈋䈩䈒䈣䈘䈇䇯koko ga dokoka wakarimasen

kokono jusho wo oshiete kudasai

I don’t know where I am.

Please tell me the address of this location.

Going to the hospital“Injury/Sudden Illness” Section䉬䉧䉕䈚䉁䈚䈢

ౕว䈏ᖡ䈇䈪䈜

ක⠪䈮⸻䈩䉅䉌䈇䈢䈇kega wo shimashitaguai ga warui desu

isha ni mite moraitai

I am hurt.

I feel unwell.

I want to see a doctor.

∛㒮䈮ㅪ䉏䈩ⴕ䈦䈩䉅䉌䈋䉁䈞䉖䈎㪖
byoin ni tsurete itte moraemasenka?

Symptoms (Illness)

Symptoms (Injuries)

Communicating withthe hospital staff

Would you take me to the hospital?

䉝䊧䊦䉩䊷䈏䈅䉍䉁䈜଻㒾⺧᳞䈱䈢䉄䈮䇮䈖䈱↪⚕䈮⸥౉䈚䈩ਅ䈘䈇

arerugii ga arimasu

hoken seikyu no tame ni, kono youshini kinyuu shite kudasai

I have allergies.

Please fill out this form for insurance claim.

ⴊ䈏಴䈩䈇䉁䈜

㗡䉕ᛂ䈤䉁䈚䈢

ᗧ⼂䈲䈅䉍䉁䈜䋯ᗧ⼂䈏䈅䉍䉁䈞䉖chi ga deteimasu

atama wo uchimashitaishiki wa arimasu 䋯 ishiki ga arimasen

I am (he is/ she is) bleeding.

I (he/she) hit my (his/her) head.

Is conscious/unconscious.

㚂䈏∩䈇ᚻ䋯⿷䇭䈏േ䈐䉁䈞䉖㤗∽䈚䈩䈇䉁䈜

kubi ga itai

te / ashi ga ugokimasen

mahi shite imasu

My neck hurts.

I cannot move my hand(s)/foot (feet).

Feels numb.

ᱤ䋯㗡䋯䈍⣻䈏∩䈇ᾲ䈏䈅䉍䉁䈜

⣲䉏䈩䈇䉁䈜

ha䋯atama䋯onaka ga itai

netsu ga arimasu

harete imasu

Tooth/head/stomach hurts.

I have a temperature.

Hand/foot/face is swollen.

䈞䈐䈏಴䉁䈜

䈣䉎䈇䉄䉁䈇䈏䈚䉁䈜

seki ga demasu

daruimemai ga shimasu

I am coughing.

I feel languid.

I feel dizzy.

ኙ᳇䈏䈚䉁䈜

ฯ䈐᳇䈏䈚䉁䈜

ਅ∯䉕䈚䈩䈇䉁䈜

samukega shimasu

hakike ga shimasu

geri o shiteimasu

I feel chilled.

I feel nauseous.

I have diarrhea.

Phrases to use (by pointing) in an
emergency

46

Information (1) Phrases to use (by pointing) in an emergency‫ޣ‬2㧦ᣣᧄ⺆࡮⧷⺆࡮㖧࿖⺆㨋౒ㅢ ‫ޤ‬ㅢⴕᱛ߼ߪ޽ࠅ߹ߔ߆㧫ㄤ࿁ߒߥߌࠇ߫ߥࠅ߹ߖࠎ߆㧫็㔐/ᄢ㔎/ᒝ㘑/ᄤ᳇߇ᖡ޿

tsuukoudome wa arimasuka?

ukai shinakereba narimasenka?

fubuki/oame/kyofu/tenki ga warui

Are there road closures?

Do I have to take a detour?

Blizzard/Rainstorm/Windstorm/Bad weatherඦᓟᤨ߹ߢߦජᱦⓨ᷼ߦⴕ߈ߚ޿
gogo niji madeni chitose kuukou ni ikitai㘧ⴕᯏߦ㑆ߦวࠊߥ޿߆߽ߒࠇߥ޿

ඦᓟ2ᤨߋࠄ޿ߦජᱦⓨ᷼ߦ⌕߈߹ߔhikouki ni maniawanai kamo shirenai

gogo niji gurai ni chitose kuukou ni tsukimasu

I have to be at Chitose Airport by 2.

I may not make my flight.

I will be arriving at Chitose Airport around 2.

೉ゞߩᣇ߇ᣧ޿ߢߔ߆㧫
ressha no hou ga hayai desuka?

ߤ߁ߔࠇ߫޿޿ߢߔ߆㧫
dousureba ii desuka?

Will it be faster to take the train?

What should I do?

㆏〝߇ㅢⴕᱛ߼ߢߔ
doro ga tsuukoudome desuᦨነߩࠝࡈࠖࠬߦ㄰ߒ߹ߔ
moyori no ofisu ni kaeshimasu

Road is closed.

I will return the car to the nearest office.

Communicating/
Reporting

Alternative transportation

Information
gathering“Traffic Jam” Section“Parking” Section㚢ゞ႐ߪ޽ࠅ߹ߔ߆㧫chushajo wa arimasuka?

ゞߪߤߎߦ஗߼ࠇ߫޿޿ߢߔ߆㧫Where is a parking lot?

Where should I park my car?

kuruma wa dokoni tomereba ii desuka?

“Fueling” Section࡟ࠡࡘ࡜࡯‫ޓ‬ḩ࠲ࡦ㧍
regyuraa mantan࡟ࠡࡘ࡜࡯‫ޓ‬20࡝࠶࠲࡯㧍
regyuraa niju ritta

Fill up with regular!

20 liters of regular!

“Car Trouble” Section᡿㓚ߒ߹ߒߚ
kosho shimashitaゞ߇േ߆ߥ޿
kuruma ga ugokanai㎛ࠍ㐽ߓㄟ߼߹ߒߚ
kagi wo tojikomemashita

My car broke down.

My car does not work.

I locked my car keys inside.

ࠟࠬᰳߢߔ
gasuketsu desuࡃ࠶࠹࡝࡯߇਄߇ࠅ߹ߒߚ
batteri ga agarimashitaࡄࡦࠢߢߔpanku desu

I ran out of gas.

The battery is dead.

I have a flat tire.

“Wild Animal” Section?

?

ࠪࠞߦ߱ߟ߆ࠅ߹ߒߚ
shika ni butsukarimashitaߎߎߪ⍮ᐥጼߢߔ
kokowa shiretoko toge desu

My car hit a deer.

I’m at Shiretoko Pass.

Totally lost?
Help is here!
A convenientwebsite.

Consult the “Point at the Sentence Travel
Conversation Booklet” listed under Tourism
Brochures in the "Hokkaido Gururi-Tabi" website.
http://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/siryo/pamph.html

Phrases to use (by pointing) in an
emergency

47

Information (1) Phrases to use (by pointing) in an emergency‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆ ‫ޤ‬Supported languages:Japanese: English: Traditional
Chinese: Simplified
Chinese: Korean

1. List of relevant telephone numbers
٨Police (110)‫ޓޓ‬ᣣ‫ޓޓޓޓޓޓ‬٨Ambulance (119)‫ޓޓ‬ᣣ
٨Directory Assistance (104) ᣣ٨Hokkaido Emergency Medical Treatment Information Center (0120-20-8699 (Toll Free), 011-221-8699) ᣣ٨Japan Road Traffic Information Center (0570-011-011, Speed number 8011) ᣣ*Hokkaido Regional Information (011-281-6511)‫ޓޓ‬Hokkaido Expressway Information㧔011-891-8111㧕

٨Road Emergency Number (Speed number 9910㧕ᣣ٨JAF Roadside Service (0570-00-8139, Speed number 8139) ᣣ

2. List of related websites
Hokkaido District Transport Bureau
http://wwwtb.mlit.go.jp/hokkaido/ ᣣ‫ڎ‬Notification/Application Information‫ڎޓ‬Vehicle Registration‫ڎޓ‬Tourism Promotion‫ڎޓ‬Press Release“Northern Road Navi”: Civil Engineering Research Institute of Cold Region
http://northern-road.jp/navi/eng/ ᣣ ⧷ ❥ ◲ 㖧‫ڎ‬Distance and time search function is available‫ڎޓ‬Many links to websites for sightseeing by car“Basic knowledge of traffic safety”: on the website of Safe Living Environment Promotion Division
http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ks/ska/saftydrive/eng/ ᣣ ⧷ ❥ 㖧‫ڎ‬Driving safely‫ڎޓ‬Basic rules and manners‫ڎޓ‬Driving on winter roads‫ڎޓ‬What to do in a traffic accident“Hokkaido Gururi-Tabi”: Hokkaido Tourism Organization
http://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/ ᣣ ⧷ ❥ ◲ 㖧‫ڎ‬Hotels/Ryokan‫ڎޓ‬Events & Festivals‫ڎޓ‬Route Search‫ڎޓ‬Travel & Transport*“
̈Point at the Sentence’ Travel Conversation Booklet” and “Hokkaido Festival Guide” can be downloaded from theEnglish and Chinese (Traditional and Simplified) web pages.

“Fly and Active Drive Hokkaido”
http://www.hkd.mlit.go.jp/zigyoka/z_doro/pamphlet/index_e.html(Hokkaido Regional Development Bureau)(Japan Tourism Association, Inc.)‫ڎ‬City Information‫ڎޓ‬Area Information‫ڎޓ‬Driving Information‫ڎޓ‬Driving Manners

Telephone numbers/websites

48

Information (2) Telephone numbers and websites of related organizations‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆ ‫ޤ‬Supported languages:Japanese: English: Traditional
Chinese: Simplified
Chinese: Korean

2. List of related websites (continued)
٨Public agencies/services
Hokkaido Prefectural Police

Post Office

http://www.police.pref.hokkaido.jp/english/eng.htm

http://www.jp-network.japanpost.jp/en/‫ڎ‬Outline of Hokkaido‫ڎޓ‬Outline of Hokkaido Prefectural Police‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Area Map of Police Stations‫ڎ‬Sending/receiving letters and parcels‫ڎޓ‬About international mailᣣ⧷ᣣ⧷Japan Automobile Federation (JAF)

http://www.jaf.or.jp/e/‫ڎ‬Roadside service call ‫ڎޓ‬Translation of driver’s license‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Traffic manual sales‫ڎޓ‬International reciprocal service among partners

ᣣ⧷٨Travel Information
Hokkaido Tourism Organization

Scenic Byway Support Center‫ޓ‬

http://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/

http://www.scenicbyway.jp/english/index_e.html‫ڎ‬Tourist route information‫ڎޓ‬Seasonal information‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Map of major expressways‫“ڎޓ‬Hokkaido Festival Guide” and “‘Point at
the Sentence’ Travel Conversation Booklet” can be downloaded.

‫ڎ‬Introducing 7 scenic routes

ᣣ⧷❥◲㖧

ᣣ⧷❥◲㖧
NEXCO Eastern Japan

http://www.e-nexco.co.jp/road_info/‫ڎ‬Search fares/routes‫ڎޓ‬Downloadable fare schedules‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Traffic congestion informationᣣ٨Airports
New Chitose Airport

Hakodate Airport‫ޓ‬

http://new-chitose-airport.jp/en/

http://www.airport.ne.jp/hakodate/en/‫ڎ‬Flight information‫ڎޓ‬Timetable ‫ڎ‬Information for international flightcustomers‫ڎޓ‬Information on airport facility‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ ڎޓ‬Access map to the airport‫ڎ‬Information on airport facility

ᣣ⧷❥◲㖧

ᣣ⧷

Asahikawa Airport

Tokachi-Obihiro Airport

http://www.aapb.co.jp/

http://obihiro-airport.com/en/‫ڎ‬Access map to the airport‫ڎޓ‬Information on airport facility‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Tourist Information‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ڎޓ‬Access map to the airport ‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Information on airport facility

ᣣ㖧

ᣣ ⧷❥㖧

Nemuro-Nakashibetsu Airport‫ޓ‬

Kushiro Airport

http://www.nakashibetsu-airport.jp/

http://www.kushiro-airport.co.jp/‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ڎޓ‬Access information‫ڎޓ‬Information on airport facility‫ڎ‬Tourist information‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ڎޓ‬Access information‫ڎޓ‬Information on airport facility‫ڎ‬Tourist information

ᣣᣣMemambetsu Airport‫ޓ‬

Wakkanai Airport‫ޓ‬

http://www.mmb-airport.co.jp/

http://www16.ocn.ne.jp/~wk.air/‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ڎޓ‬Access information‫ڎޓ‬Information on airport facility‫ڎ‬Tourist information‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ ڎޓ‬Access map to the airport‫ڎ‬Information on airport facilityᣣᣣ

List of websites

49

Information (2) Telephone numbers and websites of related organizations‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆ ‫ޤ‬Supported languages:Japanese: English: Traditional
Chinese: Simplified
Chinese: Korean

2. List of related websites (continued)
٨Transport organizations
Car rentals
Toyota Rent a Car(Toyota Rent a Car Sapporo)

http://rent.toyota.co.jp/en/index.html

http://www.toyotarentacar.net/english/‫ڎ‬First time users‫ڎޓ‬Rates and car models‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬How to make a reservation‫ڎޓ‬International licenses‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Illegal parking‫ڎޓ‬Non-operation charges (NOC)‫ڎ‬Location of the New Chitose Airport sales counter and rental procedures‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Branch locations‫ڎޓ‬Rates‫ڎޓ‬How to use the car navigation systemᣣ⧷ᣣ⧷(Toyota Rent a Car Shinsapporo)

http://toyota.rent-a-lease.com/english/‫ڎ‬Location of the Chitose Airport sales counter and rental procedures‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Insurance and options‫ڎޓ‬Safe Driving Guidebook‫ڎޓ‬Branch locations

ᣣ⧷❥Nippon Rent a Car

Honda Rent a Car

http://www.nipponrentacar.co.jp/english/

http://www.hondarent.com/english/‫ڎ‬Rental rates‫ڎޓ‬From reservation to return‫ڎ‬Rates, fees, services, provisions, etc.‫ڎޓ‬Pick up‫ڎ‬Car rates‫ڎޓ‬How to make a reservation‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬When renting and returning a vehicle‫ڎޓ‬For safe driving

ᣣ⧷ᣣ⧷

Mazda Rent-a-Car

Sapporo Rent-Car Association

http://www.mazda-rentacar.co.jp/www/genre/
0000000000000/1157608717919/

http://sapporo-renta.com/english/‫ڎ‬When renting a car‫ڎޓ‬Compensation (Exemptions and NOC)

‫ڎ‬Monitor report‫ڎޓ‬From reservation to return‫ڎ‬About the use of expresswaysᣣ⧷ᣣ⧷

FerriesHeart Land FerryJR
JR Hokkaido

http://www.heartlandferry.jp/english/

http://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/‫ڎ‬Operating conditions‫ڎޓ‬Timetable, Fare and Rate Table‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Terminal information‫ڎޓ‬How to make a reservation‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Boarding procedures‫ڎ‬Timetable‫ڎޓ‬Route Map‫ڎޓ‬Travel Information‫ڎޓ‬Model Course‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Visitors Information Desk

ᣣ⧷❥

ᣣ⧷❥㖧

٨WeatherJapan Metrological Agency

Japan Weather Association

http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html

http://www.njwa.jp/eweather/‫ڎ‬Warnings/Advisories‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Weather conditions, Typhoon information, Flood forecasts‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Tsunami warnings/advisories, Earthquake information‫ڎ‬Hokkaido weather forecast‫ڎޓ‬7-day forecast for Hokkaido‫ޓ‬‫ڎ‬Weather forecasts for tourist destinations‫ڎޓ‬Airport weatherᣣ⧷ᣣ⧷٨Road and Traffic Information
Northern Road Navi

http://northern-road.jp/navi/eng/‫ڎ‬Route maps‫ڎޓ‬Driving information‫ڎޓ‬Road/mountain pass (blizzard) information‫ڎޓ‬Winter driving guide‫ڎ‬To search distance and time, click here,http://time-n-rd.jp/

ᣣ⧷❥◲㖧٨Taiwan Ministry of Transportation

٨Korea The website of the Korean Embassy in Japan

Offers a detailed explanation of the traffic rules andregulations in Japan

Offers information on road conditions in Japan

http://eweb2.thb.gov.tw/movie/foldout/
foldout-c1.htm
http://eweb2.thb.gov.tw/movie/foldout/
foldout-c2.htm❥

http://jpn-tokyo.mofat.go.kr/kor/as/
jpn-tokyo/information/travel/㖧List of websites

50

Information (2) Telephone numbers and websites of related organizations

‫ޤ‬

51

Information (3) Helpful information
Supported languages:Japanese: English: Traditional
Chinese: Simplified
ChineseHokkaido Safe Living Environment Promotion Division,“Drive Hokkaido”: Department
ᣣ⧷❥㖧
of Environment and Lifestyle*“Drive Hokkaido” is available only in “English” and “Traditional Chinese” on the website: Hokkaido Safe Living Environment Promotion Division,
Department of Environment and Lifestyle

٨“Drive Hokkaido” Traditional Chinese characters (Front)‫ޓ‬
http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/NR/rdonlyres/5EC1BD4F-C7A8-44B9-9C38-B1E76B979B0F/0/map_E_f.pdf
٨“Drive Hokkaido” Traditional Chinese characters (Back)‫ޓ‬
http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/NR/rdonlyres/70EFD983-0813-4616-B547-D4AA731D2227/0/map_E_b.pdf

How to handle an accident: Checking for casualties and reporting to the police and car

rental companies

Michi-no-Eki (Road Station) information: Map codes are listed. You can reach yourdestination by following michi-no-eki.

Distance/time between cities: Distance and time between major cities in Hokkaido arelisted.

Road signs in Japan: Main road signs in Japan are introduced.
What to watch for in winter driving: Main points/issues are introduced
Sample routes: 8 sample routes based on a 3 nights/4 days plan are listed.
For safe driving: Basic rules and regulations such as yielding to pedestrians, no use ofcell phones while driving, and other related items.

“Enjoy Driving in HOKKAIDO”: Hokkaido District Transport Bureau ❥How to reserve a rental car: Who to contact, what you need, important points
to consider when renting a car and other related matters.

Size of Hokkaido: Comparison against the size of Taiwan by using maps of thesame scale.

Distance/Time between major cities: Distance and Time are shown on the map.
Notes of caution about driving: Right-hand steering wheels and left-handtraffic. Parking violations and other related items.

Notes of caution about road signs/fueling: Notes of caution about noovertaking, small animals crossing and fuel types.

Driving manners: Handling accidents.
Driving on snow-covered roads: Driving techniques for snow-covered roads“Expressways in Hokkaido” ⧷Available from NEXCO East (East Nippon Express Company)/car rental offices

How to read expressway signs and other signage
Explanations of how to enter an expressway, how to pay tolls,
handle ETC and other related matters
Expressway toll schedule
How to handle accidents and other troubles“Pamphlet for Taiwanese” ❥A pamphlet developed in collaboration by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure,
Transport and Tourism and the National Police Agency“Rules of the Road” in foreign languages ⧷Sold at all JAF branch offices

The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) publishes andsells “Rules of the Road” translated into five languages forforeign motorists. It is designed to promote safety on theroad and to prevent traffic accidents involving foreign
residents in Japan. The price is 1,000 yen per copy(including consumption tax – add postage) in any
language.
Languages supported:
English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese and Hangul㖧: Korean

Other helpful information is offered‫ޣ‬2㧦⧷⺆࡮◲૕ሼ࡮㖧࿖⺆㨋౒ㅢ