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Japan Self-Driving Guide | MapCode: Japan Navigation Map Search Tutorial, Essential App Recommendations

MapCode (マップコード) is a unique Japanese mapping system that uses a subdivided map to indicate the detailed location information of a location. This system, consisting of 9-10 digits, is the easiest way to enter location information using a satellite navigation device when traveling in Japan, besides a phone number.

Basic knowledge about self-driving travel in Japan: MapCode Japan geographical information system

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

Anyone planning a road trip to Japan, unfamiliar with the area, will inevitably rely on satellite navigation. And if you want to get the most out of your car's navigation system, you need to first learn about MapCode.

Generally speaking, when using a car's satellite navigation machine, the easiest way to enter the destination is to directly enter the phone number.If you are going to places like restaurants, of course, there is no problem, but you will choose places to go by car, which are often in the suburbs, and the phone number is not readily available. At this time, you need to choose the option to enter MapCode.

Hokkaido is a popular destination for self-drive tours in Japan, particularly in Biei and Furano. Public transportation is relatively scarce, and bus packages are limited, making self-driving the best transportation solution. If you're looking to drive to attractions like XX-no-Ki or OO-no-Oka, you won't be able to enter a phone number, so you'll need to rely on MapCode.

Car Navigation: MapCode can set destinations directly in the car navigation system, only for compatible in-car navigation models.
Simple setup: MapCode is only 6-12 digits long, making it easier to input and search than address, phone number, and other information.
Precise positioning: MapCode can accurately locate any location, especially any attractions without an address or phone number.

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Quick understanding: basic introduction to MapCode geographical information system

MapCode official website:https://www.denso-solution.com/mapcode/

MapCode is a geographic information system developed by Tenso, Japan. The standard version is composed of 10 numbers, and the high-resolution version is composed of 12 numbers. The design principle of MapCode is quite simple. In fact, the map of Japan is continuously cut and subdivided into smaller and smaller squares, and then each small square is represented by a number. The principle is similar to the postal code.

整個日本地圖先區分成為1,162個方塊區域，邊長27公里，就是用最前頭四位數字來代表；接著每個區域再劃分成30*30的900格區域，邊長900公尺，再用3個數字來標示；接著每格再進一步細分為30*30的900格區域，邊長30公尺，再用3個數字來標示，從而組成4+3+3=10個數字的標準版。

至於高解析度版呢？就是再進一步劃分囉，將標準版的每格地理區域劃分為3*3的9格區域，用1個數字代表；接著每格依然再劃分為3*3的9格區域，再用1位數字代表，就會構成標準版10+2=12個數字的高解析度版，每個單元邊長為3公尺。

In principle, if you are not going to Japan to be a pirate king or digging for treasures, but just looking for locations of tourist attractions, you can use the standard 10-digit number.It should be noted that not every scenic spot will have a complete 10-digit number. Depending on the region, the first four digits may be omitted into 0~3 digits, so the MapCode may be 6~10 digits.

MapCode 4 — ▲MapCode consists of three groups of numbers: area number, block number, and unit number. Later, the high-resolution S core number was further developed.

MapCode query tutorial: NaviBridge mobile app quick query

NaviBridge Download:App Store|Google Play

Using the Google Maps and NaviBridge apps, after searching for a location on Google Maps, use the share function to transfer the location to NaviBridge, and the MapCode information will be displayed immediately without having to use a computer to search.

MapCode query tutorial: Mapion map service query step tutorial

Mapion official website:https://www.mapion.co.jp/

Generally speaking, the built-in information of navigation machines in Japan is quite rich. Just enter the phone number to find the location and navigate. However, if you are planning to go to the natural scenic spots in the suburbs, if you don’t have a phone number, MapCode will send you this time. When it comes to use.

People who plan to travel by car to Japan often have to collect phone numbers and MapCode on the Internet first, or collect various DM promotional materials marked with MapCode in the local area. If this method is a bit confusing and unruly, here is a solemn introduction to Japan The query method provided by the Mapion map website allows you to query the navigation information you need.

Next, let’s explain step by step and introduce how to check the phone number and MapCode on the Japanese Mapion map website!

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Step1. Enter keywords on the homepage to search

connectedmapionOn the official website, the search function is provided at the top of the homepage. Use the general "normal search" function, enter the keywords of the place you want to find, and click "search" to search.

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Step2. Click on the most suitable search result

The search results will show a list of keywords that match the keywords. Under the title of each search result, properties such as sightseeing spots, traffic signs, snack restaurants, etc. will be indicated, which can be used to identify whether it is the correct search target.

Step3. Check basic information and click on the map

After you have selected and clicked an entry in the search result, you can see the basic information of the place, such as the introduction, telephone number, and address, and the MapCode information will also be listed on it.Then you can also click "Di図" to jump to view the map information.

Supplement (1): Map confirmation and quick query

After jumping to the map page, the "green arrow" will point out the location of the query location on the map, and also display the basic information of the location, as well as various advanced search and share record functions.After holding down the left mouse button on the map, you can move the map, move the "red cross" on the map to the position of the green arrow, and then press the right button to query the required MapCode data at any location.

Click "Local URL" to pop up a window to display the website address of the place you are looking for, and you can query the website record URL and MapCode of the place. A string of numbers at the bottom of the window is the MapCode data, which can be copied and recorded directly.

Supplementary note (2): The most convenient way to use telephone inquiries

Japanese navigation machines can be entered by phone or MapCode. Generally speaking, you only need to find the phone number of the location planned for the itinerary.However, if it is a suburban or outdoor scenic spot that does not have telephone information, such as Hokkaido's ╳╳noki and other places, the Mapion website will still have detailed information, so you have to click on the "confirmation" function to further inquire MapCode information.

Related Post: Mapion Japan Map Service: Inquire about local food, drink and fun and MapCode navigation information

MapCode query tutorial: Quick query of MapCode information website

Query website:https://japanmapcode.com/

The japanmapcode.com website combines Google Maps data with Japan MapCode location information. For locations listed in Google Maps, you can more easily find the MapCode. If you know exactly where your destination is on the map, simply click on it to instantly find the MapCode information. While keyword search may be weaker than Mapion, it's ideal for those familiar with maps because it's much simpler to use.

httpjapanmapcode.com 1 — ▲ Enter the web address in the browser, and enter the keyword in the upper left corner, you can use Google image data to query.

httpjapanmapcode.com 2 — ▲ After clicking on the queried target location, the MapCode of the destination will appear below, which is convenient and fast.

httpjapanmapcode.com 3 — ▲ Under the destination information, you can click ☆star. When you log in to your Google account, the location will be added to your favorites.

httpjapanmapcode.com 4 — ▲ Use the mouse to directly click on the map, and you can also query the MapCode immediately. The operation is very simple!

Also featured: MapCode navigation mobile application

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

Mapion and japanmapcode.com are suitable for pre-planning itineraries. When you use a computer to quickly inquire, you can plan your itinerary by the way.However, in the self-driving itinerary, if there is a need to query MapCode temporarily, in addition to the direct use of the car navigation machine, you can also use the mobile phone necessary for modern people to download the appropriate APP software in advance, and you can query at any time.

Next, let’s introduce 4 essential mobile apps that can be used to query MapCode for your reference.

NaviBridge APP

The NaviBridge APP is also produced by Denso. It was originally called NaviCon. It provides a complete traditional Chinese interface and instructions. It can be linked with Google Map and the physical navigation machine. After directly querying the data on the Google Map APP, you can directly send the destination data to NaviBridge and To obtain MapCode data, if the mobile phone and the navigator have established a Bluetooth connection, it can be directly transferred to the navigator by NaviBridge, which is very convenient.

NaviBridge(NaviCon) APP download page:App Store|Google Play

Mapion APP

The APP produced by the Mapion map service website is rich in map content and provides complete navigation functions. However, it only has a Japanese interface and must have a Japanese account to download.

Mapion APP download page:App Store|Google Play

MapCode+ APP

Personally developed MapCode quick query software, you can quickly query directly by clicking on the map, and there is also a favorite function, the function is simple and fast, but there will be advertisements at the bottom of the user interface.

MapCode+ APP download page:App Store｜Google Play

Drive! NIPPON APP

Denso Denso's own application program can directly click on the map to query, and directly display the address and latitude and longitude. After clicking the query MapCode, it can be further linked to NaviBridge (NaviCon) and directly send the MapCode to the car navigation machine. It is also provided Lots of travel information.

Drive! NIPPON APP download page:App Store|Google Play

Video introduction: Unboxing video of MapCode navigation

Preparation before traveling to Japan by car

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

For those who decide to travel by car in Japan, when planning the itinerary beforehand, it is recommended to list the scenic spots that they plan to visit first, and use various MapCode related websites to check the MapCode of each scenic spot, and then they can follow the table to teach.If you don’t have any queries before you leave, you can only find local tourist guide materials on the spot. Sometimes the MapCode of the scenic spots will be listed, otherwise you will just pull the map on the navigation device and slowly locate it!

After everyone understands the basic principles and knowledge of MapCode, when planning a self-driving tour itinerary, learn how to use the Mapion map website to obtain MapCode navigation information, which can easily create the navigation information needed for planning a self-driving itinerary.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Self-Driving Trip in Japan

What exactly is Mapcode? Why is it essential to know how to use it when driving in Japan?

Mapcode is a map positioning system developed by the Japanese company Denso. It divides the entire country of Japan into tiny squares and uses a string of 6 to 12 digits to represent a specific location. Compared to the cumbersome input of traditional Japanese addresses, Mapcode only requires inputting numbers for precise location. This is extremely convenient when driving, especially when wanting to go to natural attractions, observation decks, or country roads without house numbers. Mapcode can directly guide the navigation system to that point, with an accuracy far exceeding that of house number positioning. It is widely recognized as the simplest and most foolproof navigation input tool for car rental trips in Japan.

I already have Google Maps or the tourist attraction's phone number, do I still need a Mapcode?

This is a very practical question! While Google Maps is powerful, in-car navigation is the best choice when the signal is unstable in mountainous areas or remote tourist spots in Japan. Although searching by phone is also convenient, many newly opened shops, deserted nature parks, or even large-scale attractions like a specific tree in Biei simply don't have phone numbers available for input. This is where Mapcode's advantage becomes apparent. It can accurately pinpoint parking lot entrances, preventing you from being led astray to cliffs or narrow alleys behind attractions. The expert advice is: use your phone for popular attractions, and absolutely have Mapcode ready for hidden gems.

Where can I find the mapcode for tourist attractions? Are there any recommended tools?

Finding map codes is incredibly easy! Two tools are highly recommended: First, the Mapion website. After entering the map and selecting a location, click the "Convenience Tool" button in the upper right corner to see the map code. Second, JapanMapCode.com, specifically designed for Taiwanese tourists, allows you to directly obtain the code by searching for keywords. Additionally, many Japanese travel guides, blogs, and official websites of tourist attractions now proactively display map codes. Before your trip, it's advisable to compile all the codes for your destinations in an Excel spreadsheet or your phone's notes app. Setting them up on-site takes only a few seconds, saving you a significant amount of time searching for information on the street.

How do I input the Mapcode into the navigation system of a car rented in Japan?

While the navigation interfaces vary slightly from car to car, the logic is largely the same. First, find "Destination" in the menu, then look for "Mapcode," which is sometimes hidden under various search or map code options. Once inside, you'll see a numeric keypad; simply enter the code you've found. After entering the code, the screen will display the corresponding map location. Once you've confirmed it's correct, select "Start Navigation" or "Set as Destination." Most Japanese car navigation systems support multiple languages. When renting a car, you can ask the staff to switch to Traditional Chinese or English for you, making it easier to find the Mapcode input key!

What do the asterisk (*) and two digits after the Mapcode mean?

When searching for map codes, you'll often see combinations like 123 456 789*12. The two digits after the asterisk are called the high-resolution code. The first nine digits can pinpoint a location within approximately 30 meters, while adding the two digits after the asterisk can improve the accuracy to an astonishing 3 meters or less! These two digits are especially useful in urban areas or parking lots with multiple entrances and exits. If your car's navigation system supports inputting asterisks, be sure to enter the numbers after the asterisk as well. This will ensure that the navigation takes you directly to the parking lot entrance, not the adjacent street.

What should I do if the navigation cannot find the pre-found Mapcode?

Don't panic in this situation! There are usually two reasons: First, it might be an input error; please check if you've missed any numbers or clicked the wrong location. Second, the car's map version might be too old and unable to recognize newer codes. In this case, you can try entering the attraction's phone number as a backup. If you don't even have a phone number, the safest approach is to turn on Google Maps on your phone and mount it in the car. Additionally, it's recommended to download offline maps on your phone before setting off. In case you lose internet access in mountainous areas and the car's system can't recognize the codes, offline maps combined with GPS can still guide you back to the main roads, making it an essential safety precaution for road trips.

Is the Mapcode system updated regularly? Will older code become obsolete?

Mapcodes are based on geographic latitude and longitude, so the location itself remains constant. In other words, if an observation deck's latitude and longitude are fixed, its Mapcode will essentially remain unchanged. The only updates are to the POI (Point of Interest) names in the map database, or newly opened roads. Codes found online several years ago can still provide accurate navigation. However, to be on the safe side, for recently renovated popular facilities such as new rest stops or shopping malls, it's recommended to check the latest code again using tools like Mapion a week before your trip to ensure your itinerary is foolproof.

When driving in Okinawa or Hokkaido, is a map code particularly important?

That's right! These two places are the perfect stage for Mapcode to shine. Hokkaido is vast and sparsely populated, and many charming patchwork road attractions, such as the Ken and Mary Tree, don't have addresses or phone numbers, so navigation relies entirely on Mapcode. Okinawa, on the other hand, has many hidden beaches and secluded cafes tucked away in winding paths, where address navigation often goes wrong. When driving in these areas, Mapcode isn't just an aid, but the core of navigation. Many local car rental companies even provide a list of Mapcodes for popular attractions to prevent tourists from getting lost. If your destination is Hokkaido or Okinawa, be sure to thoroughly check all the Mapcodes.

Do all car rentals in Japan come with Mapcode navigation?

Currently, 99% of car rental companies in Japan, such as Toyota Rent-a-Car, Times, and Nissan, offer factory-installed navigation systems with Mapcode input functionality. This is standard equipment for in-car navigation systems in Japan. Unless you rent a very old or uncommon small car, you don't need to worry. When picking up the car, you can politely ask the staff to demonstrate: "Mapcode, please show me?" The staff will usually be very helpful in showing you how to access the interface. Remember, this is your right; learning to operate this little device will increase the ease of your self-driving trip in Japan by 200%.

What are some other professional considerations when using Mapcode for navigation?

Finally, a few reminders: While the map codes are very accurate, safety should always be the top priority. Please ensure the vehicle is stationary, in Park (P), and the handbrake is engaged when entering navigation information. Japanese law strictly prohibits operating the screen or looking at your phone while driving, and many car infotainment systems lock input while in motion. Also, if the route indicated by the code looks very narrow or unusual, trust your intuition and local road signs; do not blindly follow it. Finally, it's recommended to save the map codes for your hotel and airport car rental drop-off points as favorites so you don't make mistakes due to panic when rushing to catch your flight on the last day.

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Japan Driving Guide | MapCode: Japan Navigation Maps and Essential Apps

Basic knowledge about self-driving travel in Japan: MapCode Japan geographical information system

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

Quick understanding: basic introduction to MapCode geographical information system

MapCode official website:https://www.denso-solution.com/mapcode/

MapCode query tutorial: NaviBridge mobile app quick query

NaviBridge Download:App Store|Google Play

MapCode query tutorial: Mapion map service query step tutorial

Mapion official website:https://www.mapion.co.jp/

Step1. Enter keywords on the homepage to search

Step2. Click on the most suitable search result

Step3. Check basic information and click on the map

Supplement (1): Map confirmation and quick query

Supplementary note (2): The most convenient way to use telephone inquiries

MapCode query tutorial: Quick query of MapCode information website

Query website:https://japanmapcode.com/

Also featured: MapCode navigation mobile application

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

NaviBridge APP

Mapion APP

MapCode+ APP

Drive! NIPPON APP

Video introduction: Unboxing video of MapCode navigation

Preparation before traveling to Japan by car

Japan car rental reservation:ToCoo!|KKday|klook|Trip

Frequently Asked Questions about Self-Driving Trip in Japan

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