Unexpected Signal Facts & Trivia
Do you think "Green means Go" and "Yellow means Caution"?
That might be a bit dangerous.
We explain the "True Rules" of signals useful for exams and driving, with illustrations.
▲ There are roughly 3 types of signals in Japan
In Japan, besides the "General Traffic Light", there are specific signals for buses/pedestrians, and "Hand Signals" by police officers during disasters.
Understanding each correctly is key to safety.
"Green" is NOT "Go"!
Many think "Green = Go (Order)", but correctly it means "You MAY proceed".
What does that mean?
If the intersection ahead is congested, you must NOT proceed even if the light is green. Entering would cause gridlock.
The correct meaning is "You may go if the situation allows."
*By the way, delivery robots seen recently are treated as "Pedestrians" at signals.
"Yellow" means "STOP"!
Yellow does not mean "Proceed with caution."
The basic rule for Yellow is "STOP (Do not proceed beyond the stop line)".
You can proceed ONLY if you cannot stop safely (e.g., risk of rear-end collision due to sudden braking).
Remember: If in doubt, it's STOP, not GO.
Flashing Signals
Flashing signals often seen at night. Meaning differs greatly by color.
| Type | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 🟡 Flashing Yellow |
You MAY proceed with caution. No obligation to slow down (Joko), but watch surroundings carefully. |
| 🔴 Flashing Red |
You MUST Stop Temporarily. Same as a "Stop" sign. Stop wheels completely and check safety! |
Police Hand Signals
Police officers direct traffic during disasters or power outages. Basically two poses: "Arms spread" or "Arms raised".
▲ Meaning depends on the officer's orientation relative to you
The key is which way the officer is facing you.
| Officer's Direction | Meaning |
|---|---|
|
Facing Front (or Back) (You see their chest or back) |
Regardless of arm position, ALWAYS ● Red Signal (Must Stop) |
|
Facing Sideways (You see their profile) |
Arms Spread: ● Blue (Green) Signal Arms Raised: ● Yellow Signal |
At night, they use a "Red Lighted Baton".
Who has the Highest Authority?
If a "Traffic Light", "Police Officer", and "Construction Guard" give different signals, who should you follow?
-
1
Police Officer / Traffic Warden
Highest priority. Even if the light is red, if an officer says "Go", you go. -
2
Traffic Light
If no police officer, follow the traffic light. -
3
Construction Guard
No legal authority. Even if they say "Go", if the light is red, you stop.
Understand signals correctly
for safe driving!
Test your knowledge!