No german vehicles in Japan?

[Lars]

Hi,

I am still trying to organize my trip via Sakhalin to Japan.

The German Embassy in Tokyo just told me that german vehicles are not allowed to drive in Japan unless they are technically checked by Japanese authorities. Unfortunately I was told that such checks take several month and cost several millions yen. Therefore, the only practical solution would be to leave my bike with the custom authorities and travel otherwise.

The reason seems to be that one of these countries signed the wrong treaty.

This sounds strange to me, I heard of several german bikers travelling through Japan. Is there a solution or did they ride illegally?

Does anyone have informations?

Regards

Lars

[Chris of Japan]

Yes, the problem is with Japan and Germany signing different treaties. Germans, French, and Swiss are tecnically driving illegally.
But nobody knows this. You can import using a carnet, because that is a customs document, not really permission to drive. Once you leave customs, you are illegal, But again, nobody knows this. Just don't talk about the treaty.

[Lars]

Chris,

Yes, I was inquiring about a letter of confirmation from my embassy in order to enter the country without carnet.

Since my bike is quite old, it should not be worth too much (maximum 3000 Euro), so 5% of it's value should be acceptable.

So it seems all I have to do is to make up my mind if I am willing to travel Japan illegally (What happens in case of an accident? Will I be able to get insurance?).

Thanks a lot!

Lars

[simmo]

Lars I think you answered your own question...illegal and insurance dont usually go together.

[Chris of Japan]

Originally posted by Lars:
(What happens in case of an accident? Will I be able to get insurance?).

You can get insurance from any bike shop. About $50 for one month. Your bike will be imported legally. You are not supposed to ride it though.
I know MANY germans and swiss who rode in Japan with no problem.
Unless someone actually checks the international treaty, it shouldn't be a problem even if you are in an accident. But do be careful!