Japanese authorities have suspended the car driving licenses of nearly 900 cyclists for riding bicycles under the influence of alcohol. This sharp increase follows new traffic laws introduced in November last year, imposing stricter penalties on cyclists.

• Over 4,500 people were caught drunk cycling between November 2024 and June 2025.
• The new rules allow for penalties of up to three years in jail or a maximum fine of 500,000 yen ($3,200).
• More than 72,000 bicycle accidents were recorded in Japan in 2023, accounting for over 20% of all traffic accidents.