Charichari Implements Safety Campaign for New Bicycle Regulations
Charichari, a bike-sharing service based in Fukuoka, is proactively addressing safety concerns as Japan prepares for the introduction of new bicycle traffic regulations on April 1, 2026. The company has collaborated with local governments and police departments across six key locations to promote traffic safety awareness. These initiatives include safety parades and community events aimed at familiarizing cyclists with the new rules and encouraging safe bike usage.
Under the mission to establish a modern transportation culture, Charichari has focused on creating a safe environment for cycling. The impending traffic law amendment introduces a 'Blue Slip' system for traffic violations, applicable to cyclists aged 16 and over. In response, Charichari has designated a three-month period from March to May 2026 as the 'Safety Awareness Enhancement Period,' launching the ‘Smart Ride Challenge’ to engage the public in fun activities while learning traffic rules.
Why Now?
April marks the start of a new lifestyle for many, leading to an increase in bicycle usage for commuting and schooling. While bicycles provide convenient transportation, many riders have reported confusion and anxiety regarding the upcoming legal changes due to a lack of structured learning opportunities regarding traffic rules.
Charichari's safety campaign aims to address these issues by organizing traffic safety parades and local events in six of its operational areas, effectively raising awareness of proper cycling protocols during this transition period.
Campaign Highlights
Fukuoka Area
Date: March 12, 2026
Location: Fukuoka City Hall Front Plaza
Participants: Local government and police, Charichari.
- - Bicycle Safety Use Campaign
Date: March 31, 2026
Location: Tenjin Underground Shopping District
Participants: Fukuoka Prefectural Police, local government, high schools, and Charichari.
Nagoya Area
- - Nagoya Station Bicycle Safety Summit
Date: March 9, 2026
Location: sanagi, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya
Participants: Local police, Charichari.
- - Traffic Safety Awareness Activity
Date: April 1, 2026
Location: Near Yanagibashi Intersection, Nagoya
Participants: Local authorities and Charichari.
Tokyo Area
Date: March 14, 2026
Location: Ariake Garden
Participants: Various community organizations and Charichari.
Kumamoto Area
- - Bicycle Traffic Safety Parade
Date: March 26, 2026
Location: Start from Shimotom Arcade
Participants: Kumamoto authorities and Charichari.
- - Flyer Distribution at Hanabata Plaza Port
Date: April 2, 2026
Location: Hanabata Plaza
Participants: Charichari.
Kurume Area
- - Flyer Distribution at Nishitetsu Kurume Station
Date: March 27, 2026
Location: Nishitetsu Kurume Station
Participants: Local government and Charichari.
Saga Area
- - SAGA BLUE PROJECT at Saga Arena
Date: March 15, 2026
Location: Saga Arena
Event: Children participate in drawing activities to create safety message boards.
Ongoing Commitment
Charichari remains dedicated to fulfilling its role as a public transportation infrastructure provider, ensuring that everyone can cycle safely. The company will continue its traffic rule awareness initiatives to foster a secure cycling environment for everyone.
About Charichari
Charichari is a bike-sharing service that allows users to easily unlock dedicated red bicycles via a smartphone app. The rates start at 6.5 yen per minute for standard bikes and 20.5 yen per minute for electric bicycles, emphasizing convenience for everyday users. Since its inception in Fukuoka in 2018, Charichari has grown significantly, with over 44 million rides and locations in several regions across Japan.
Additionally, Charichari sells high-quality helmets in its official online store, designed for easy storage and safety, contributing to community safety initiatives. For more information, visit
Charichari's official website.