Is it permissible to allow school children to cross the road at an intersection without pedestrian crossing?

Allowing school children to cross the road at an intersection without a designated pedestrian crossing is permissible under certain circumstances in Japan. While it is always safest for pedestrians to use marked crossings, the traffic laws recognize that children, especially in school zones or during designated crossing times, may need to cross in locations that are not equipped with marked crosswalks.

In these situations, drivers are expected to be especially vigilant when children are in the vicinity and to yield the right of way to them. It is important, however, that the crossing is done safely and that there is an absence of oncoming traffic or vehicles to ensure the safety of the children.

Thus, the correct answer acknowledges the understanding that while marked crossings are the standard, there are instances where crossroad behavior by school children is accepted, provided appropriate caution is taken.