MotorwayJapan
2. Motorway
A motorway is a road specially designed and signposted for motor traffic. Motorways normally have separate carriageways for opposing traffic, controlled access through designated entrances and exits, no direct access to neighbouring properties, and no level crossings with other roads, railways or paths.
Special traffic rules apply on motorways. The permitted road users, speed limits, lane rules, tolls and emergency procedures vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • shota • CC BY-SA
How do people refer to an expressway in Japan?
The general Japanese term is 高速道路 (kōsoku dōro). The legal categories include national expressways and other motor-vehicle-only roads; the same unsigned speed rule does not apply to every road called an expressway.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced decree revision metadata
What speed limit applies to cars on an expressway in Japan?
For an ordinary car on a national expressway, the normal statutory maximum is 100 km/h. Selected sections are signed up to 120 km/h, while others are lower. Follow the actual signs; other expressway categories and vehicle classes can have different rules.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced decree revision metadata
What should I do if I miss an expressway exit in Japan?
Continue to the next exit. Never reverse, turn around or drive against the traffic on the expressway.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced decree revision metadata
What should I do if my vehicle breaks down on a Japanese expressway?
If possible, reach a safe stopping place off the traffic lanes and switch on hazard lights. If stranded on the carriageway or shoulder, warn following traffic with the prescribed stopping-warning equipment, placing it where it can be done safely. When safe to leave, move to a protected place away from traffic and report the breakdown. Do not remain in or beside a stranded vehicle where moving traffic can strike it.
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced Road Traffic Act, revision metadata and full text
🔗 laws.e-gov.go.jp • e-Gov — current enforced decree revision metadata

Traffic rules
Japan