On Air: Fukuoka City Information/2012.10.12(Fri)/11:00～

There are several moral manners that Fukuoka has in place to make the city a safe, hospitable place to live. And, to make it an even better place to live, the city would like to spread the word about moral manners in hopes that everyone will follow the rules together. Today’s announcement introduces them.

In Japan, auto traffic drives on the lefthand side of the road. And, in law, bicycles are expected to drive on the left side of the road, not the sidewalk, as well. In areas designated with signs, bicycles are permitted to ride on sidewalks, however it is understood that at all times, pedestrians are to have the right of way, and bicycles are to ride slowly when around pedestrians. When bicycles are in the way of pedestrians, bicycles are to come to a complete stop or riders are expected to dismount and walk their bicycles.

In addition, riding side by side with other bicycles, riding double with others, riding in the dark without a light, riding while intoxicated, using a cell phone, and holding an umbrella are all forbidden while riding a bicycle. Violating any of these rules may result in fines. Also, parents of children 13 years of age and younger are asked to make sure that their children wear helmets for their safety when riding.

Citizens are also asked to fill out anti-theft bicycle registration paperwork when buying or receiving a bicycle; It may speed the recovery of your bicycle if stolen. The paperwork can be filled out at the store at which you purchase your bicycle, or at police stations or local police boxes.

Furthermore, in efforts to reduce the frequent number of bicycle accidents, the city is currently taking citizens’ opinions on bicycle saftey rules and is looking to establish official ordinances on the subject.

There is also an announcement regarding parking nuisances. Discarding of bicycles and/or improper parking not only defaces Fukuoka, but is a source of accidents and traffic back ups that bother pedestrians and other cyclists. Such behavior may also get in the way of fire fighting or other rescue operations as well. Please refrain from these behaviors and be sure to park your vehicle in legitimate car or bicycle parking lots.

And lastly, there is an announcement about smoking in public places. The streets around Tenjin, Daimyo, and Hakata Station are officially non-smoking. Please smoke in designated areas only. And, even in areas where smoking in public is not prohibited, the city asks smokers to please refrain from smoking while walking or while riding bicycles. And of course, if smoking outside, please bring a portable ash tray to dispose of your cigarette butts.

Please take a moment and think honestly about if you follow these moral manners or not.