Driving on toll roads is a common occurrence when travering to distant resorts by car.Most highways in japan are toll roads,so when you go out by car,you almost always pass through a toll booth.

Driving in an unfamiliar foreign country ,and on top of that, when you ride on a highway ,you may be worried about whether you can pay the toll smoothly, whether you can understand the signs property,and so on. But actually, the toll roads in japan are not that complicated. this  time, we will introduce the basic knowledge you need to know when using toll roads in japan. 

many of japan`s toll roads are roads with a speed limit of 80-100/h called highways,of course Honsyu - Hokkaido - Shikoku - Kyusyu internal networks, Honsyu - Shikoku, Honsyu - Awajishima - Shikoku, and Honsyu - Kyusyu.is tied in addition, there are many toll roads around major tourist spots and resort areas,enabling smooth access from urban areas. 

Most of the signs for toll roads in japan are green.

There are various signs on toll roads as well as general roads, but there are a few notations that you should especially remember. 

 

 

■ Expressway (Expressway, EXPWY) Intershange (IC) :

■ In most cases, there is a toll booth at the entrance to the toll roads

■junction (JCT) :An intersection wheremultiple toll roads meet

■Parking Area (PA) : There are parking lots,toilets,and places to eat.

■Service Area (SA) : Parking lots,toilets, gas stations, restaurants, etc. Larger rest area than PA

■Thru Traffic : Driving lane and Combined passing Lanes, excluding acceleration lanes, deceleration lanes, climbing lanes, shoulders, etc. 

 

Rest areas on toll roads range from parking lots and toilets to gas stations,souvenir shops, restaurants and shops. If you see a parking area or service area sign while driving ,check what kind of facilities are inside before deciding whether to stop by.

１ Parking Lot

２ Gas Station

３ Restaurant

４ Highway Information Terminai : You can check road information, sightseeing infom ation, and required time to your destination in the surrounding area.

５ light meal

 

1. Expressway Entrance

 

When entering an expressway, follow the signs carefully and choose the correct entrance. Some entrances have ETC-only lanes, while others allow all vehicles to enter.

 

2. Expressway Signs

 

Road signs provide important information about destinations, exits, junctions, speed limits, and lane directions.

 

If you are unfamiliar with driving in Japan, check the signs carefully and use a navigation system when necessary.

 

3. Toll Booths

 

Many expressways in Japan are toll roads. When using a toll road, you will need to pay the required toll.

 

As you approach a toll booth, check the signs and select the appropriate lane.

 

4. How to Pay

 

There are several ways to pay expressway tolls in Japan, including ETC, cash, and credit cards, depending on the toll booth.

 

If you do not have ETC, use a lane where cash or other payment methods are accepted.

 

5. ETC

 

ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) is a system that allows you to pay expressway tolls automatically.

 

If your vehicle is equipped with an ETC device and you have an ETC card, you can use the designated ETC lane without stopping to pay.

 

6. General Lanes

 

If you are not using ETC, use a lane marked 「一般」 (General) or another lane that accepts non-ETC payments.

 

Follow the instructions at the toll booth and pay the required toll.

 

7. Changing Lanes

 

When approaching an exit or junction, you may need to change lanes.

 

Check the road signs and navigation system in advance, and change lanes safely and gradually. Avoid making sudden lane changes.

 

8. Exits and Junctions

 

Pay close attention to signs when approaching an expressway exit or junction.

 

If you miss your exit, do not stop or reverse on the expressway. Continue driving and follow the signs to the next available exit.

 

9. Driving Safely on Expressways

 

Expressway traffic can be fast, so maintain a safe following distance and pay attention to vehicles around you.

 

Always follow the posted speed limits and traffic rules.

 

10. Important Tips for First-Time Drivers

 

If you are driving on a Japanese expressway for the first time:

 

Check your route before starting your journey.

Confirm which lane you need to use.

Pay attention to expressway signs.

Check your ETC card before entering an ETC lane.

Avoid sudden lane changes.

Keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Do not panic if you miss an exit.

 

Once you understand the basic rules and procedures, driving on Japanese expressways is much easier and more comfortable.