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Cycling is a convenient and efficient way to get around Tokyo. Many people ride bicycles on a daily basis. But in case you are thinking of getting a bike, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. Accidents involving bicycles are on the rise and we have strict rules and regulations regarding bicycles.

Registration

All bicycles must be registered. This is to prevent bicycle theft. If you are caught riding an unregistered bike, you will have a hard time explaining yourself. So register your bike as soon as you get it. Even if you are taking over a used bike from your friend, you need to re-register under your own name. Registration is a proof that you have not stolen the bicycle. You can register your bike at any bike shop for a small fee.

Lights

Make sure the front light of your bicycle is working. If you ride the bike with the front light off after dark, chances are you will be stopped by a police officer and asked very unpleasant questions.

Theft

Tokyo is a safe city. Even so, bicycles are stolen sometimes. In the unfortunate case that your bike is stolen, report to your nearest police station as soon as possible so that you will have a better chance of recovering your bike. Furthermore, if the police find your stolen bike abandoned somewhere and you have not reported it as stolen, you may be asked to pay for the recovery fee. To avoid such circumstances, go to the nearest police station to file a report.

Insurance

Gakken sai insurance will cover bicycle accidents while commuting to and from UTokyo. But you will not be covered when you use your bike to go shopping, sightseeing, see your friends, etc. Bicycle accidents are on the rise so if you plan on using your bicycle for daily life, you should buy additional insurance. Bicycle insurance is relatively cheap and it can help enormously in case of an accident.

Parking

Bicycles must be parked in designated areas. If you park your bike illegally, it will be removed by the local authorities and you will have to pay a hefty sum of money to recover it.

On Campus

Bicycle accidents are occuring on campus. Yield to pedestrians and ride safely. To obtain a parking permit on campus, please register online.

Drunk driving

A bicycle is a vehicle, and drunk driving is prohibited. Do not ride your bike after having consumed alcohol.

Miscellaneous

Report to your supervising professor immediately if you are involved in any kind of incident. Read pages 11- 13 of the Foreign Resident Manual for more details about bicycle safety.