# Japan Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/japan-autumn-national-traffic-safety-campaign
> Updated: 2026-09-18T02:58:00.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 3.

Japan is preparing for its Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign, scheduled to run from September 21 to September 30, 2026. The nationwide initiative focuses on reducing accidents by addressing pedestrian safety, preventing distracted driving from smartphone use, and enforcing rules for bicycles and small motorized vehicles.

In the lead-up to the campaign, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department held an awareness event in Nerima Ward. Metropolitan Police Superintendent General Hiroki Tsutsui, joined by performers, emphasized the increased risk of pedestrian fatalities due to earlier sunsets. Authorities are urging the use of reflective materials or bright clothing to improve visibility. Officials also highlighted recent regulatory changes, such as the reduction of the legal speed limit to 30 km/h on residential roads without central lines, effective September 1.

As the campaign approaches, various regions are conducting kickoff ceremonies and drills. In Shibuya, emergency services held joint training sessions with taxi drivers regarding the use of AEDs and fire extinguishers. Fukushima officials focused on bicycle traffic rules and a new ‘blue ticket’ system for cycling violations, while Niigata authorities reminded drivers to turn on headlights earlier. 

Regional data highlights specific concerns: Kochi Prefecture reported that traffic fatalities have reached a ten-year high, noting that a significant portion of these deaths involve elderly pedestrians. In Mie, local police engaged with kindergarteners to promote pedestrian safety and the use of reflective materials.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-18: Japan launches Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign

Police and emergency services across Japan are launching the Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign from September 21 to 30, focusing on pedestrian safety, bicycle rules, and early headlight use.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-launches-autumn-national-traffic-safety-campaign

### 2026-09-12: Tokyo Metropolitan Police promote traffic safety ahead of autumn campaign

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and various entertainers held an event to promote traffic safety ahead of the autumn campaign, highlighting new 30 km/h speed limits on residential roads.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tokyo-metropolitan-police-promote-traffic-safety-ahead-of-autumn-campaign

### 2026-09-06: Japan to hold Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign in September 2026

Japan will hold its Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign from September 21–30, 2026, focusing on pedestrian safety, preventing distracted driving, and enforcing bicycle traffic rules.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-to-hold-autumn-national-traffic-safety-campaign-in-september-2026

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Cite as: Japan Autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/japan-autumn-national-traffic-safety-campaign