Freedom of movement

It is in the interests of cyclists that they take care of themselves.
‘Ride where-ever you can. Just don't do anything stupid.’ seems to be the ethos among cyclists in Japan.

Cyclists in Japan can plan their route according to what surfaces are physically available to ride on, as it unfolds before them.
Apart from not being permitted to ride on Expressways or to do right hand turns with vehicles at intersections, they are unimpeded in their choice of route.

Denying cyclists the choice of making use of footpaths, pedestrian crossings, free left hand turns and contra-flow rights in one-way streets all detract from the experience of cycling that cyclists should naturally enjoy.