As Japan approaches the Golden Week holiday, traffic predictions indicate significant congestion across major expressways, particularly on the Tohoku and Kanetsu Expressways. The anticipated jams are expected to peak between May 3 and May 5, 2025, with motorists urged to plan their travels accordingly.
According to reports from the Saitama Shimbun, the Tohoku Expressway near the Hanyu Parking Area (PA) is expected to experience a staggering 40 km traffic jam around 7 AM on May 3, 2025. Simultaneously, the Kanetsu Expressway near the Takasaka Service Area (SA) is predicted to have a 30 km backup at the same time. This congestion marks the beginning of a busy travel period as families and individuals take advantage of the extended holiday.
Following the initial peak on May 3, further delays are expected on May 4. The Kanetsu Expressway near the Sakado Smart Interchange (IC) is forecasted to see a 35 km jam around 5 PM. Then, on May 5, the same interchange is projected to witness a 40 km traffic jam around 3 PM. Additionally, the Tohoku Expressway near Kazo IC is expected to face a 30 km backup around 5 PM, as reported by Saitama Shimbun.
In light of these forecasts, authorities are calling for motorists to consider staggered travel times to mitigate congestion. With no holiday discounts available during Golden Week, travelers are encouraged to be strategic in their planning to avoid peak traffic periods.
The situation is not unique to the Kanto region. NEXCO West Japan has also released traffic predictions for the Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu areas on May 4, 2025. On the Nishi-Seto Expressway (Kobe Inland Sea Route), a 20 km congestion is expected between the Innoshima Kita IC and the Onomichi Ohashi IC. Meanwhile, the Sanyo Expressway is projected to experience a 20 km backup between Mine IC and Oasa IC.
Further delays are anticipated on the Kochi Expressway, where a 10 km jam is expected near Oasa-hara IC to Kawanoe Higashi JCT. On the Kyushu Expressway, congestion is predicted in both directions. Heading up, a 10 km backup is expected near Kurume IC to Chikushino IC, and a 15 km jam is predicted near Minami-Seki IC to Kurume IC. Heading down, motorists should prepare for a 20 km delay near Fukuoka IC to Tosu JCT.
NEXCO East Japan has also provided forecasts for May 5, 2025. On the Tohoku Expressway heading up, a 10 km congestion is expected near Fukushima JCT to Fukushima Matsukawa PA, and a 20 km jam is projected near Shirakawa IC to Nishi-Shirakawa Kogen SA. Further backups of 20 km are anticipated near Nishi-Shirakawa Kogen IC to Utsunomiya IC.
Travelers on the Kanetsu Expressway can expect a 40 km traffic jam near Fujioka JCT to Karasuyama IC. Other notable congestion points include a 15 km backup on the Joshin-etsu Expressway near Myogi-Matsuda IC to Shimonita IC and a 10 km delay on the Kita-Kanto Expressway near Itako IC to Tomobe JCT.
Motorists are reminded that the Golden Week is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan, characterized by high traffic volumes as families and friends embark on holiday trips. The government and highway authorities are urging drivers to remain patient and to consider alternative routes or travel times to ease the burden on the roads.
In addition to the traffic predictions, there are also warnings about the lack of holiday discounts during this period, which may affect travel decisions for many. As travelers prepare for their journeys, they are encouraged to stay informed about traffic conditions and to plan their routes ahead of time.
As the holiday approaches, it is essential for motorists to be mindful of these projections and to take necessary precautions. By doing so, they can help ensure a smoother travel experience during this busy season.
