No, studded tires are prohibited nationwide in Japan under the Road Transport Vehicle Act enforced by the National Police Agency and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Exceptions exist only for emergency or military vehicles with special permits, while civilian use triggers fines up to ¥300,000 or vehicle impoundment.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Japan
- National Ban: Article 75 of the Road Transport Vehicle Act explicitly bans studded tires for standard passenger and commercial vehicles due to road surface damage and safety risks.
- Local Exemptions: Hokkaido and Aomori Prefectures historically permitted studded tires during winter months, but the 2026 revision to the Road Act will eliminate these exceptions, aligning all regions under the national prohibition.
- Penalties: Violations incur administrative fines (¥200,000–¥300,000) and potential vehicle seizure under the Act on the Punishment of Acts Against Road Traffic Safety, enforced by prefectural police.
The shift reflects Japan’s 2026 compliance alignment with international environmental standards, prioritizing infrastructure preservation over seasonal flexibility. Municipalities like Sapporo, once a hub for studded tire use, now enforce the ban uniformly, with no grandfathering provisions for existing vehicles.