Japan's New Year holiday is known for generating vast amounts of traffic on its highways, and the 2024-2025 season is no exception. With the holiday period running from December 28, 2024, to January 5, 2025, predictions by highway authorities indicate significant congestion during this span, particularly on January 3, 2025, which is expected to be the peak day for traffic jams.
NEXCO, which encompasses expressway operations from East Japan, Central Japan, and West Japan, as well as JB Honshu Expressway, anticipates serious congestion on several of its routes. Data suggests the most severe jam will occur around Kazo Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, with estimates predicting approximately 35 kilometers of vehicle backlogs around 5 PM on January 3. This expected rush stems from travelers returning home after the holiday break or heading to leisure destinations, taking advantage of the long break.
To facilitate smoother journeys, NEXCO has urged drivers to plan their travel times strategically. "We encourage travelers to adjust their travel schedules to avoid peak times," one official mentioned. They emphasized the importance of monitoring specific congestion hotspots and considering alternate routes or times, especially on known busy days which include not just January 3, but also December 28, 29, and January 2 for rush outflows and January 2, 3, and 4 for returns.
These peak days are based on traffic trends observed from previous years, where many people opt to travel by car, making highway usage surge dramatically. NEXCO reported high congestion levels expected on expressways such as the Kanetsu, where significant traffic can also build near major service areas. Anticipated congested areas include the Saitama region and the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line route, where traffic could be backed up for over 15 kilometers at busy times during the holidays.
Another important note for travelers is the announcement concerning expressway fees. According to JB Honshu Expressway, holiday rate discounts typically applied on weekends will not be available during this high-traffic period from December 28 to January 5. The exemption of these discounts is related to efforts to manage the overwhelming traffic demands faced during the holiday seasons, as the government continues to respond to the heavy congestion burden on these busy routes.
This decision aims to balance tourist demands and the highway system’s operational capacity effectively, adapting as necessary to the anticipated increase in travelers. Officials noted, "The holiday rate discounts will not be applied over the New Year period from December 28 to January 5." This means families and individuals planning to travel should be ready for not just long waits but also increased costs if using expressways during this time frame.
Considering all of these factors, travelers planning their New Year journeys should conduct thorough planning beforehand. With some adjustments and awareness of potential bottleneck zones, they can minimize the stress and delays often associated with this hectic time of year. The advice from NEXCO and the rates set by expressway companies serve as reminders of the need for thoughtful travel arrangements during this widely popular holiday season.
So, if you plan to hit the road this New Year, make sure to check real-time updates on traffic conditions, heed travel advice to migrate around peak times, and prepare for any expenses once you're on the road. Happy New Year, and safe travels!
