LoL, I didn't even think the two threads were related, but I know where you got that idea from.

The americans still have pay the JCI (Japanese Car Inspection) Tax. I'm guessing the "Y" is just for SOFA status individuals and I'm not one.

I wonder how a 'tourist' would go about buying a car? And when I left I would just trash/dump it? I was told that 'disposal fees' have been included in the JCI prices.

It would be nice to be able to drive on our own, but as you said, I'd hate to get in a wreck and be subject to japanese laws and who knows what kind of criminal negligence, etc.

Thanks for all the advice so far!