Are mopeds allowed to drive in exclusive lanes for buses under any circumstances?

Mopeds are categorized as light vehicles in Japan; however, they are not permitted to use exclusive bus lanes under any circumstances. The rules for designated lanes are primarily oriented towards ensuring the efficient and safe movement of public transportation, which includes various types of buses, and are intended for vehicles that have specific permissions to use those lanes.

Driving in bus-only lanes can interfere with public transport services if other vehicles, such as mopeds, are allowed to access them. These lanes are tailored for buses to operate without the obstruction that smaller or lighter vehicles could cause. Thus, rather than treating mopeds the same as other light vehicles in this context, the regulations clearly restrict their use in these lanes to protect the primary function of bus lanes—providing timely and uninterrupted transit for public transportation.

In summary, mopeds cannot drive in exclusive lanes for buses at any time, as this would counteract the defined purpose of those lanes.