As the Golden Week approaches in Japan, NEXCO companies have released their traffic jam forecasts for the period spanning from April 25, 2025, to May 6, 2025. This 12-day holiday season, known for its heavy travel, is expected to witness significant congestion, particularly from May 3 to May 5, 2025. Travelers are being warned to prepare for long delays on the highways, especially during peak travel days.
This year, the Golden Week is characterized by a unique weekday arrangement: a pattern of 'first half consecutive holidays plus second half four consecutive holidays.' This scheduling is expected to lead to increased traffic congestion in both directions. According to NEXCO, the peak times for outbound traffic are anticipated to be on May 3 and May 4, while inbound traffic is expected to peak on May 3, 4, and 5.
NEXCO has predicted that there will be a total of 378 instances of traffic jams exceeding 10 kilometers throughout the holiday period. This figure includes those jams that exceed 30 kilometers, which are expected to be particularly prevalent during the high-traffic days. The forecast indicates that the longest traffic jams could reach up to 45 kilometers, especially on the outbound lanes during the peak travel days.
Travelers heading out during the Golden Week should be aware that holiday discounts for the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system will not apply during this time. This means that toll costs may be higher than usual, adding another layer of consideration for those planning road trips.
To avoid the worst of the congestion, NEXCO is advising drivers to check real-time traffic information and consider altering their travel times or routes. Various navigation apps and information websites can provide updates on current traffic conditions, allowing motorists to make informed decisions about their journeys.
On April 26, 2025, early indicators of congestion were already being noted. For instance, on the Tohoku Expressway, traffic jams are expected near Iwatsuki IC, with a 10-kilometer jam predicted between Kawaguchi JCT and Kuki Shiraoka JCT. Similarly, the Joban Expressway is expected to see congestion near Kashiwa IC, while the Kanetsu Expressway may experience a 20-kilometer jam near Takasaka SA.
In the Tokai region, the Tomei Expressway is projected to have significant delays, particularly near Okazaki Interchange in Aichi Prefecture, where a maximum jam of 30 kilometers is expected around 9 AM on May 3. NEXCO Central Japan has noted that this year's traffic is likely to be heavier than last year's, which was affected by adverse weather conditions.
Moreover, specific traffic conditions have been detailed for the upcoming days. For example, on April 26, 2025, the Tomei-Hanon Expressway near Kameyama PA is expected to see a maximum traffic jam of 10 kilometers between 9 AM and 1 PM. On the Isewangan Expressway, a 25-kilometer jam is anticipated near Yutaka-Kinomoto IC during the same timeframe.
Looking ahead to April 27, 2025, traffic on the Tomei Expressway near Toyoda JCT is expected to reach a maximum of 15 kilometers between 5 PM and 9 PM. The Shin-Tomei Expressway will also see congestion, with a 10-kilometer jam expected near Okazaki East IC.
In the Kyushu region, NEXCO West Japan has forecasted that the Kyushu Expressway will experience traffic jams up to 35 kilometers long during the Golden Week. The company has provided a detailed list of expected traffic conditions, advising travelers to plan their journeys accordingly.
As families and individuals prepare for their Golden Week getaways, the importance of planning ahead cannot be overstated. With numerous traffic jams expected across various expressways, travelers are encouraged to take advantage of real-time traffic updates to navigate around congested areas effectively.
In summary, the Golden Week of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest travel periods in recent years, with significant congestion expected on highways throughout Japan. By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can help ensure a smoother journey during this popular holiday season.
