Japan is bracing for substantial traffic congestion on its expressways as the year-end and New Year holidays approach. According to forecasts from NEXCO (Japan Expressway Holding and Shared Services), specific areas are predicted to experience heavy delays, especially on December 29, which is historically one of the busiest travel days of the year.
The rush associated with U-turn traffic—where holidaymakers return home after visiting family—has long been recognized as a contributing factor to this congestion. Notably affected routes include the Meishin Expressway, which is expected to see significant backups.
Predictions indicate the following areas are likely to encounter severe traffic jams:
- Meishin Expressway (upbound): Congestion is anticipated from Kyoto Minami IC to Otsu IC, spanning approximately 10 kilometers.
- Meishin Expressway (downbound): Expect delays from the Meishin starting point to Otsu IC, with potentially up to 20 kilometers of traffic jams.
- New Meishin Expressway (downbound): From Ishiyama IC to Uji Higashi IC near the Uji Tunnel, expected congestion is around 10 kilometers.
- Hanshin Expressway No. 3 Kobe Line (downbound): Heavy traffic is forecasted between Nishinomiya IC and Maya IC, with congestion up to 10 kilometers.
- Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway (downbound): From Nishiwaki Minami IC to Awaji Island Minami IC, extending approximately 10 kilometers near the Great Naruto Bridge.
- Chugoku Expressway (downbound): Anticipated jams near the Masuiyama Tunnel, covering roughly 10 kilometers of traffic.
The heavy congestion is not expected to alleviate until after January 3, when the majority of holiday travelers have returned home. Motorists are advised to plan their travel times accordingly, with many expected to leave early or late to avoid the peak hours.
Past traffic behavior indicates the highest surges typically coincide with the late afternoon and evening of December 29, when many families head back to their normal routines. Authorities recommend drivers check traffic updates regularly through the NEXCO website and utilize alternative routes where possible to avoid the worst of the delays.
Road safety measures have also been amplified as transport officials aim to manage the increased volume. Stricter oversight on high-traffic sessions will be implemented, along with designated rest stops being prepared to help ease fatigue among long-distance drivers.
Overall, the year-end travel rush poses historical challenges on Japan’s expressways, and as people prepare for family reunions and celebrations, the importance of staying informed about road conditions and planning is greater than ever.
