What criteria led to the selection of Fukuoka and Naha airports for initial rollout?

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Selection Criteria for Fukuoka and Naha Airports

Fukuoka Airport and Naha Airport were chosen for the initial implementation of road traffic safety measures due to a confluence of factors related to foreign visitor driving patterns and the inherent risks associated with differing traffic conventions. The primary considerations were the significant volume of foreign tourists who rent vehicles in these regions and the notable proportion of these visitors originating from countries or territories where driving is conducted on the right-hand side of the road.
High Volume of Foreign Car Rentals

A key factor in the selection of Fukuoka and Naha airports was the comparatively high number of foreign visitors who opt to rent cars for transportation in these locales. This elevated rental car usage among international tourists necessitates targeted safety interventions to mitigate potential risks. For instance, data indicates that accidents involving rental cars driven by foreign motorists have seen a substantial increase, quadrupling from 47 in 2020 to 212 in 2025, underscoring the need for proactive safety measures in high-traffic areas for this demographic.
Prevalence of Drivers from Right-Hand Traffic Countries

Furthermore, a significant portion of visitors to the Fukuoka and Naha areas hail from countries or regions where traffic conventionally flows on the right side of the road. This difference in driving orientation presents a heightened risk of accidents, particularly at intersections, as drivers may instinctively attempt right turns—which are on the left side in Japan—or stray into oncoming traffic lanes. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism highlighted this as a critical risk factor contributing to the increased accident rates.
Proactive Safety Measure Implementation

The introduction of safety measures, such as coloured road surfacing to delineate correct right-turn paths and rubber bollards to prevent lane departures, aims to create a clearer and safer driving environment. Additional signage reminding drivers to keep left will also be installed near rental car company hubs. These measures are designed to address the specific challenges faced by drivers unfamiliar with Japan's left-hand traffic system, thereby enhancing safety for all road users.
Broader Context of International Driving Differences

Japan's initiative to implement these safety measures reflects a broader international challenge in managing road safety for tourists accustomed to different driving norms. While Japan drives on the left, many countries drive on the right, creating a potential for confusion. This situation is not unique to Japan; for example, the UK, which also drives on the left, runs campaigns like "Drive on the Left" to assist foreign visitors during peak tourist seasons.

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What criteria led to the selection of Fukuoka and Naha airports for initial rollout?

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