Decoding Japanese Car License Plates in Vietnam

“Wow, what a lucky license plate!” Have you ever exclaimed something similar when spotting a striking license plate in Hanoi? License plates, especially those on Japanese cars, are more than just identifiers; they hold cultural significance and intriguing details.

Since their arrival in Vietnam, Japanese cars have gained popularity for durability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The format of Japanese license plates also sparks curiosity. Does every Japanese car have a “foreign” license plate?

Unraveling the Mystery of Japanese Car License Plates

The term “Japanese car license plate” typically refers to vehicles imported directly from Japan. These cars are easily recognizable by their white license plates with blue lettering, distinct from domestic Vietnamese plates.

Distinguishing Imported from Locally Assembled Cars

However, not all white license plates signify imported cars. Many mistakenly believe Japanese license plates are entirely different from Vietnamese ones. In reality, many Japanese car models are now assembled in Vietnam and carry the same white license plates as imported vehicles. So how can you tell the difference?

Comparing license plates of imported and locally assembled cars in Vietnam

The answer lies in the regional code. Imported car license plates usually feature a single letter representing the province or centrally-governed city where the car is registered, such as “A” for Hanoi or “B” for Ho Chi Minh City. Locally assembled cars, however, have two-letter regional codes, like “HN” for Hanoi and “SG” for Ho Chi Minh City.

The Spiritual Significance of License Plates

Vietnamese culture deeply values spirituality and feng shui. Choosing an auspicious license plate is a common practice, with some willing to pay hefty sums for the most expensive license plates in Vietnam to attract good fortune and prosperity.

Vietnamese praying for luck with their car license plates

Mr. Nguyen Van A., a feng shui expert in Hanoi, explains, “Each number holds a unique meaning. For example, the number 3 represents talent, 5 symbolizes the five elements, and 8 signifies prosperity. Harmoniously combining these numbers on a license plate can attract positive energy and bring good luck to the owner.”

Important Considerations When Buying or Selling a Japanese Car

Whether imported or locally assembled, always thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s documentation, especially its origin, before buying or selling a Japanese car. If you plan to change your car’s license plate after changing your residency, familiarize yourself with the legal regulations to avoid future complications. Additionally, checking vehicle information using the license plate number is crucial to understand the car’s history.

Understanding Japanese car license plates empowers you to make informed decisions and choose the right vehicle for your needs.

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