1 Hour Simple Japanese Listening – Traffic in Japan

1 Hour Simple Japanese Listening – Traffic in Japan

Today, let’s talk about transportation in Japan. First, about the traffic rules in Japan. In Japan, cars and motorcycles travel on the left side of the road. This is called left-hand traffic. Countries that also have left-hand traffic include the United Kingdom and Australia.

Incidentally, it seems that many countries have right-hand traffic. With left-hand traffic, the steering wheel of the car is on the right side. Next, traffic signals in Japan are displayed in three colors: red, yellow, and green. When it’s red, you stop.

You also stop at yellow, but if you cannot stop immediately, you may proceed. And when it’s blue, you may proceed. At a blue light, you can go left, straight, or right in any direction.

A blue light is green no matter how you look at it, but in Japan it is called a blue light. Why is it called a blue light even though it is green? This is because in ancient Japan, there were only four words to describe colors. The four were red, blue, black, and white.

And the green color was contained in the blue color. From this, the signal came to be called a “blue” signal instead of a “green” signal. In addition to traffic lights, there are other things that are green but are referred to as blue.

For example, apples. Green apples are referred to as “blue apples.” Next, regarding the speed limit on roads. In Japan, the general speed limit on roads is 60 km/h. On smaller roads, there are limits of 50 km/h or 30 km/h.

On expressways, the basic speed limit is 100 km/h. Finally, let’s introduce other traffic rules. In Japan, pedestrians are given priority over cars. For example, there may be times when pedestrians are crossing a crosswalk. At such times, cars must not obstruct pedestrians. If you obstruct pedestrians, you may be in violation.

You are obligated to wear a seat belt while driving. This applies not only to the driver but also to the front passenger and rear seat passengers; everyone must wear seat belts. Of course, drunk driving is prohibited. Additionally, driving while using a smartphone is forbidden.

With this, we conclude our discussion on traffic rules. If there are rules different from those in your country, please let us know in the comments. Next, about modes of transportation. Transportation can be divided into two categories.

First, there are means of transportation that carry many people, such as buses, trains, and airplanes. The second category includes personal modes of transportation, such as cars and motorcycles. Let us begin with an introduction to buses. There are two types of buses. The first is the local bus.

Route buses are the general buses that run through cities. This is what most people think of when they hear “bus.” They operate on a fixed timetable and always follow the same route. Because fares are inexpensive, many people use it to commute to work or school.

Fares typically vary based on the distance traveled. A major characteristic of route buses is that the entrance and exit are separate. Generally, the entrance is in the middle of the bus, and the exit is at the front. The second type is the express bus.

These are buses for long-distance travel. They mainly run on expressways, hence the name. The advantage of express buses is that they are cheaper than trains or airplanes. People looking to save money on long-distance travel might choose express buses.

In exchange for the lower fare, travel time is considerably longer. Unlike route buses, there is only one door for both entry and exit. Next, let’s introduce the process of taking a bus in Japan. This time, we’re focusing on how to ride a route bus.

First, to take a route bus, you go to a bus stop. The bus stop will have a timetable and destinations listed. Most of the time, the buses arrive on time. However, it is necessary to be aware that they are sometimes late.

When the bus arrives, you board it. In most route buses, the entrance is in the middle of the bus. There’s a numbered ticket at the entrance, so take a ticket from it. This ticket serves as proof of where you boarded the bus.

After taking a numbered ticket, sit in an available seat. If there is no seat available, you will ride standing. During the ride, announcements are made. By listening to them, you can know which bus stop is coming up next. When the announcement for your destination stop is made, press the stop button.

If someone else has already pressed the stop button, you don’t need to press it. When you arrive at your desired bus stop, head to the front of the bus. There is a fare box next to the driver, so put your numbered ticket and fare into it.

After paying the fare, you exit the bus. That covers how to ride a bus. There’s one thing to note when paying the fare. Some buses do not give change. Be sure to have the exact amount of money for the fare in advance.

If you don’t have the correct small change, you can also make change. Most fare boxes are equipped with a change-making function. Many Japanese use an IC card to pay the fare. In the case of IC cards, instead of taking a numbered ticket, you touch the sensor with the IC card.

Then, when exiting the bus, touching the card to the fare box completes the payment of the fare. And there are a few manners on the bus. First, you must be quiet on the bus. Speaking loudly or making phone calls is considered bad manners. Also, there are priority seats on the bus.

Priority seats are for people who are pregnant or have disabilities, allowing them priority in seating. Try to keep the priority seats available as much as possible. Next, about trains in Japan. Trains can be divided into three types. The first type is the local train.

As the name suggests, the local train is the most basic type of train. It is characterized by stopping at relatively small stations. Because it stops at many stations, it takes a longer time to reach distant stations. Since fares are very inexpensive, many people use it for commuting to work or school.

Next is the express train. The express train is designed for quick long-distance travel. Compared to local trains, express trains stop at fewer stations and only at major stations. Therefore, you can reach distant places in a short amount of time. The most notable feature of the express train is its high fare.

In addition to the fare for the local train, you need to purchase a ticket to ride the express train. Finally, is the Shinkansen. Shinkansen are used to travel even longer distances than express trains.

For example, when moving from Tokyo to Osaka, the Shinkansen is the best option. Next, let’s introduce the process of taking a train in Japan. This time, we’re introducing how to ride a local train. To take the train, you go to the station.

Once at the station, the first step is to purchase a ticket. Tickets can be bought from ticket vending machines. Some machines are equipped to offer service in languages like English, Korean, and Chinese. Besides the ticket vending machines, tickets can also be purchased at the “Midori no Madoguchi”

At the Midori no Madoguchi, staff members can assist you with purchasing your ticket. It’s very useful when you’re not sure which ticket to buy. Once you have your ticket, the next step is to head to the ticket gate.

At the ticket gate, there is a ticket gate machine. Insert your ticket into the ticket gate machine, and the gate will open for you to enter. If you have an IC card, you can pass through the ticket gate by simply touching it.

Next, head to the platform. Once you arrive at the platform, wait for the train to come. When the train arrives, get on, but be careful about one thing. People who get off the train have priority. Wait for someone to get off and then get on. Then sit on an available seat.

Just like on buses, try to keep the priority seats free. When you reach your destination station, disembark onto the platform. Then, go through the ticket gate and exit the station. This is the process of boarding a train. Here, let me introduce you to ekiben.

Ekiben are boxed lunches sold at train stations. Ekiben are made with local ingredients and cuisine. For example, in Hokkaido, famous for its seafood, there are ekiben made with squid. When you take a Japanese train on your trip, try the ekiben.

Next, about airplanes. The best thing about airplanes, after all, is that they can travel long distances in a short time. Now, let us introduce how to board an airplane. To board an airplane, you first need to make a reservation.

Most people make their reservations online. When making a reservation, it is common to specify your seat. On airplanes, all seats are reserved. To board an airplane, you must first go to the airport.

Procedures at the airport can be time consuming, so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare. The first thing to do is check in. Check-in is the procedure to confirm that you will be boarding the plane. Check-in can be done at a special machine or at the counter.

Once you have checked in, you will be issued a boarding pass. This is your ticket to board the plane. The next thing to do is to check in your baggage. You are allowed to carry a small amount of baggage with you on the plane.

However, you cannot bring a lot of luggage. Luggage that cannot be carried on board must be checked in at the counter. You can pick up your checked baggage at the airport upon arrival. Once you have checked your baggage, you will go to the security checkpoint.

At the security checkpoint, you will go through a baggage check and a body check. Dangerous items are not allowed on board. For example, items that can be used as weapons, such as scissors, are not allowed. After passing through the security checkpoint, you will go to the boarding gate.

The boarding gate you should go to is written on your boarding pass. You will then board the plane through the boarding gate. Once on the plane, look at your boarding pass and find your seat. Then, put your baggage in the rack above your seat.

Finally, once the seatbelts are fastened, all that remains is to wait for takeoff. You are required to wear your seatbelt while the plane is flying. In addition, the use of smart phones is restricted on board. Smartphones should be turned off or changed to airplane mode.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will receive your checked baggage. Once you have received your luggage, leave the airport. There are many procedures for departures, but almost none for arrivals. Next, about cabs. Unlike trains and buses, cabs do not have a fixed destination.

Therefore, the great advantage is that you can go anywhere you want. Taxis are very convenient, but the fares are high. Therefore, unlike trains and buses, few people use taxis for commuting to work or school. Now, let me show you how to take a cab.

First, look for a cab. Cabs can be found at cab stands at train stations, airports, shopping malls, and other locations. You can also call a taxi and have it come to your location. Basically, you can take a cab at a cab stand without a reservation.

Cabs are often arranged in lines, so approach the first cab. The driver will then open the door. Once the door is open, get into the cab. Japanese cabs have automatic doors, so do not open the door without permission.

Most cabs can accommodate up to four passengers. Once in the cab, tell the driver your destination. When you arrive at your destination, pay the fare. The fare depends on the distance traveled. The meter in the front of the cab will tell you the fare.

After paying the fare, the automatic door will open and you will get out of the cab. This is the process of taking a cab. Next, we will introduce familiar vehicles. There are three vehicles used in daily life: cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Cars are one of the basic means of transportation. In large cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, fewer and fewer people own cars. This is because in cities, people can go anywhere by train or bus.

In addition, many people in cities do not have cars because parking is expensive. Conversely, many people in the countryside have cars. This is because many places in the countryside are inaccessible by train or bus, so it is inconvenient to have a car. To drive a car, you need a driver’s license.

A Japanese driver’s license is very important and is sometimes used for identification. Let me introduce how to get a car license in Japan. In Japan, you can get a driver’s license at a driving school. At the driving school, you will practice driving and take classes on traffic rules.

First, about when to get a car license, many people get a driver’s license after graduating from high school or while they are still in college. At a driving school, practice driving in the facility for one to two months.

Then, when they are able to drive to some extent, they take a test. If you pass the test, you will be issued a provisional license. With a provisional license, you will be able to practice driving on public roads. Once you are able to drive on public roads, you will take a final test.

If you pass this test, you can get your car license. This is the process of obtaining a car license. Incidentally, motorcycle licenses, like car licenses, also require attendance at a driving school. Motorcycles are often used for commuting to work or school, but some people also enjoy motorcycles as a hobby.

Touring is a particularly popular form of motorcycle riding. Touring means going on a trip on a motorcycle. Touring offers an exhilarating experience as you feel the wind. Popular times for touring are spring, when cherry blossoms can be seen, and fall, when autumn leaves can be seen.

Finally, about bicycles. Unlike cars and motorcycles, bicycles do not require gasoline. Bicycles are convenient as a means of transportation for short distances. Speaking of bicycles, cycling is popular. It is a way to ride a bicycle while enjoying nature. The beauty of cycling is that it is a good form of exercise.

This is an advantage that cars and bikes do not have. Recently, more and more people are enjoying cycling for their health. One of the most famous cycling spots in Japan is the Shimanami Kaido. The Shimanami Kaido is a road about 60 km long in the Seto Inland Sea.

It is a very popular spot for cycling with a view of the sea. Thank you very much for watching our video. If you click the Good button and subscribe to our channel, we will be able to make more videos. Did you find anything about traffic in Japan that is different from your country?

Please let us know in the comments. Today, let’s talk about transportation in Japan. First, about the traffic rules in Japan. In Japan, cars and motorcycles travel on the left side of the road. This is called left-hand traffic. Countries that also have left-hand traffic include the United Kingdom and Australia.

Incidentally, it seems that many countries have right-hand traffic. With left-hand traffic, the steering wheel of the car is on the right side. Next, traffic signals in Japan are displayed in three colors: red, yellow, and green. When it’s red, you stop.

You also stop at yellow, but if you cannot stop immediately, you may proceed. And when it’s blue, you may proceed. At a blue light, you can go left, straight, or right in any direction.

A blue light is green no matter how you look at it, but in Japan it is called a blue light. Why is it called a blue light even though it is green? This is because in ancient Japan, there were only four words to describe colors. The four were red, blue, black, and white.

And the green color was contained in the blue color. From this, the signal came to be called a “blue” signal instead of a “green” signal. In addition to traffic lights, there are other things that are green but are referred to as blue.

For example, apples. Green apples are referred to as “blue apples.” Next, regarding the speed limit on roads. In Japan, the general speed limit on roads is 60 km/h. On smaller roads, there are limits of 50 km/h or 30 km/h.

On expressways, the basic speed limit is 100 km/h. Finally, let’s introduce other traffic rules. In Japan, pedestrians are given priority over cars. For example, there may be times when pedestrians are crossing a crosswalk. At such times, cars must not obstruct pedestrians. If you obstruct pedestrians, you may be in violation.

You are obligated to wear a seat belt while driving. This applies not only to the driver but also to the front passenger and rear seat passengers; everyone must wear seat belts. Of course, drunk driving is prohibited. Additionally, driving while using a smartphone is forbidden.

With this, we conclude our discussion on traffic rules. If there are rules different from those in your country, please let us know in the comments. Next, about modes of transportation. Transportation can be divided into two categories.

First, there are means of transportation that carry many people, such as buses, trains, and airplanes. The second category includes personal modes of transportation, such as cars and motorcycles. Let us begin with an introduction to buses. There are two types of buses. The first is the local bus.

Route buses are the general buses that run through cities. This is what most people think of when they hear “bus.” They operate on a fixed timetable and always follow the same route. Because fares are inexpensive, many people use it to commute to work or school.

Fares typically vary based on the distance traveled. A major characteristic of route buses is that the entrance and exit are separate. Generally, the entrance is in the middle of the bus, and the exit is at the front. The second type is the express bus.

These are buses for long-distance travel. They mainly run on expressways, hence the name. The advantage of express buses is that they are cheaper than trains or airplanes. People looking to save money on long-distance travel might choose express buses.

In exchange for the lower fare, travel time is considerably longer. Unlike route buses, there is only one door for both entry and exit. Next, let’s introduce the process of taking a bus in Japan. This time, we’re focusing on how to ride a route bus.

First, to take a route bus, you go to a bus stop. The bus stop will have a timetable and destinations listed. Most of the time, the buses arrive on time. However, it is necessary to be aware that they are sometimes late.

When the bus arrives, you board it. In most route buses, the entrance is in the middle of the bus. There’s a numbered ticket at the entrance, so take a ticket from it. This ticket serves as proof of where you boarded the bus.

After taking a numbered ticket, sit in an available seat. If there is no seat available, you will ride standing. During the ride, announcements are made. By listening to them, you can know which bus stop is coming up next. When the announcement for your destination stop is made, press the stop button.

If someone else has already pressed the stop button, you don’t need to press it. When you arrive at your desired bus stop, head to the front of the bus. There is a fare box next to the driver, so put your numbered ticket and fare into it.

After paying the fare, you exit the bus. That covers how to ride a bus. There’s one thing to note when paying the fare. Some buses do not give change. Be sure to have the exact amount of money for the fare in advance.

If you don’t have the correct small change, you can also make change. Most fare boxes are equipped with a change-making function. Many Japanese use an IC card to pay the fare. In the case of IC cards, instead of taking a numbered ticket, you touch the sensor with the IC card.

Then, when exiting the bus, touching the card to the fare box completes the payment of the fare. And there are a few manners on the bus. First, you must be quiet on the bus. Speaking loudly or making phone calls is considered bad manners. Also, there are priority seats on the bus.

Priority seats are for people who are pregnant or have disabilities, allowing them priority in seating. Try to keep the priority seats available as much as possible. Next, about trains in Japan. Trains can be divided into three types. The first type is the local train.

As the name suggests, the local train is the most basic type of train. It is characterized by stopping at relatively small stations. Because it stops at many stations, it takes a longer time to reach distant stations. Since fares are very inexpensive, many people use it for commuting to work or school.

Next is the express train. The express train is designed for quick long-distance travel. Compared to local trains, express trains stop at fewer stations and only at major stations. Therefore, you can reach distant places in a short amount of time. The most notable feature of the express train is its high fare.

In addition to the fare for the local train, you need to purchase a ticket to ride the express train. Finally, is the Shinkansen. Shinkansen are used to travel even longer distances than express trains.

For example, when moving from Tokyo to Osaka, the Shinkansen is the best option. Next, let’s introduce the process of taking a train in Japan. This time, we’re introducing how to ride a local train. To take the train, you go to the station.

Once at the station, the first step is to purchase a ticket. Tickets can be bought from ticket vending machines. Some machines are equipped to offer service in languages like English, Korean, and Chinese. Besides the ticket vending machines, tickets can also be purchased at the “Midori no Madoguchi”

At the Midori no Madoguchi, staff members can assist you with purchasing your ticket. It’s very useful when you’re not sure which ticket to buy. Once you have your ticket, the next step is to head to the ticket gate.

At the ticket gate, there is a ticket gate machine. Insert your ticket into the ticket gate machine, and the gate will open for you to enter. If you have an IC card, you can pass through the ticket gate by simply touching it.

Next, head to the platform. Once you arrive at the platform, wait for the train to come. When the train arrives, get on, but be careful about one thing. People who get off the train have priority. Wait for someone to get off and then get on. Then sit on an available seat.

Just like on buses, try to keep the priority seats free. When you reach your destination station, disembark onto the platform. Then, go through the ticket gate and exit the station. This is the process of boarding a train. Here, let me introduce you to ekiben.

Ekiben are boxed lunches sold at train stations. Ekiben are made with local ingredients and cuisine. For example, in Hokkaido, famous for its seafood, there are ekiben made with squid. When you take a Japanese train on your trip, try the ekiben.

Next, about airplanes. The best thing about airplanes, after all, is that they can travel long distances in a short time. Now, let us introduce how to board an airplane. To board an airplane, you first need to make a reservation.

Most people make their reservations online. When making a reservation, it is common to specify your seat. On airplanes, all seats are reserved. To board an airplane, you must first go to the airport.

Procedures at the airport can be time consuming, so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare. The first thing to do is check in. Check-in is the procedure to confirm that you will be boarding the plane. Check-in can be done at a special machine or at the counter.

Once you have checked in, you will be issued a boarding pass. This is your ticket to board the plane. The next thing to do is to check in your baggage. You are allowed to carry a small amount of baggage with you on the plane.

However, you cannot bring a lot of luggage. Luggage that cannot be carried on board must be checked in at the counter. You can pick up your checked baggage at the airport upon arrival. Once you have checked your baggage, you will go to the security checkpoint.

At the security checkpoint, you will go through a baggage check and a body check. Dangerous items are not allowed on board. For example, items that can be used as weapons, such as scissors, are not allowed. After passing through the security checkpoint, you will go to the boarding gate.

The boarding gate you should go to is written on your boarding pass. You will then board the plane through the boarding gate. Once on the plane, look at your boarding pass and find your seat. Then, put your baggage in the rack above your seat.

Finally, once the seatbelts are fastened, all that remains is to wait for takeoff. You are required to wear your seatbelt while the plane is flying. In addition, the use of smart phones is restricted on board. Smartphones should be turned off or changed to airplane mode.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will receive your checked baggage. Once you have received your luggage, leave the airport. There are many procedures for departures, but almost none for arrivals. Next, about cabs. Unlike trains and buses, cabs do not have a fixed destination.

Therefore, the great advantage is that you can go anywhere you want. Taxis are very convenient, but the fares are high. Therefore, unlike trains and buses, few people use taxis for commuting to work or school. Now, let me show you how to take a cab.

First, look for a cab. Cabs can be found at cab stands at train stations, airports, shopping malls, and other locations. You can also call a taxi and have it come to your location. Basically, you can take a cab at a cab stand without a reservation.

Cabs are often arranged in lines, so approach the first cab. The driver will then open the door. Once the door is open, get into the cab. Japanese cabs have automatic doors, so do not open the door without permission.

Most cabs can accommodate up to four passengers. Once in the cab, tell the driver your destination. When you arrive at your destination, pay the fare. The fare depends on the distance traveled. The meter in the front of the cab will tell you the fare.

After paying the fare, the automatic door will open and you will get out of the cab. This is the process of taking a cab. Next, we will introduce familiar vehicles. There are three vehicles used in daily life: cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Cars are one of the basic means of transportation. In large cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, fewer and fewer people own cars. This is because in cities, people can go anywhere by train or bus.

In addition, many people in cities do not have cars because parking is expensive. Conversely, many people in the countryside have cars. This is because many places in the countryside are inaccessible by train or bus, so it is inconvenient to have a car. To drive a car, you need a driver’s license.

A Japanese driver’s license is very important and is sometimes used for identification. Let me introduce how to get a car license in Japan. In Japan, you can get a driver’s license at a driving school. At the driving school, you will practice driving and take classes on traffic rules.

First, about when to get a car license, many people get a driver’s license after graduating from high school or while they are still in college. At a driving school, practice driving in the facility for one to two months.

Then, when they are able to drive to some extent, they take a test. If you pass the test, you will be issued a provisional license. With a provisional license, you will be able to practice driving on public roads. Once you are able to drive on public roads, you will take a final test.

If you pass this test, you can get your car license. This is the process of obtaining a car license. Incidentally, motorcycle licenses, like car licenses, also require attendance at a driving school. Motorcycles are often used for commuting to work or school, but some people also enjoy motorcycles as a hobby.

Touring is a particularly popular form of motorcycle riding. Touring means going on a trip on a motorcycle. Touring offers an exhilarating experience as you feel the wind. Popular times for touring are spring, when cherry blossoms can be seen, and fall, when autumn leaves can be seen.

Finally, about bicycles. Unlike cars and motorcycles, bicycles do not require gasoline. Bicycles are convenient as a means of transportation for short distances. Speaking of bicycles, cycling is popular. It is a way to ride a bicycle while enjoying nature. The beauty of cycling is that it is a good form of exercise.

This is an advantage that cars and bikes do not have. Recently, more and more people are enjoying cycling for their health. One of the most famous cycling spots in Japan is the Shimanami Kaido. The Shimanami Kaido is a road about 60 km long in the Seto Inland Sea.

It is a very popular spot for cycling with a view of the sea.

This video is useful for listening and shadowing practice using simple Japanese.
✅You can display subtitles by pressing the subtitle button.
✅Don’t forget to click the good button and subscribe!

The first half is a slow voice with furigana, and the second half is a slightly faster voice without furigana.
If you find the audio in this video too slow, it is recommended to increase the video playback speed from 1.25x to 1.5x

0:00 Traffic rules
4:50 Bus
11:56 Train
17:33 Airplane
22:01 Taxi
24:42 Car, motorcycle, bicycle

30:35 Traffic rules (no furigana, speed up)
35:11 Bus (no furigana, speed up)
41:56 Train (no furigana, speed up)
47:17 Airplane (no furigana, speed up)
51:33 Taxi (no furigana, speed up)
54:06 Car, motorcycle, bicycle (no furigana, speed up)

#japanese
#jlpt
#kanji