Major Highways & Driving Tips in Hachiōji, Tōkyō, Japan
1. Chuo Expressway (Central Japan Expressway)
High-speed toll road connecting Tokyo to Nagoya, passing through Hachiōji. Offers a quick route for travelers heading west.
- Speed Limit: Maintains high speed limits, reducing travel time
- Toll Fees: Requires payment of toll fees at entry and exit points
- Rest Areas: Regularly placed rest areas for driver comfort and safety
2. Tomei Expressway (Tokyo-Osaka Expressway)
Connects Tokyo and Osaka via Hachiōji, offering a major east-west route for travelers.
- Speed Limit: Enforces speed limits to ensure road safety
- Toll Fees: Requires toll fees at entry and exit points
- Rest Areas: Provides facilities for dining, restrooms, and car maintenance
3. Ome Loop Line
A scenic route connecting Hachiōji with the cities of Ome and Okutama. Offers a picturesque drive through the mountains.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful mountainous landscapes and views
- Speed Limit: Lower speed limits due to winding roads and narrow lanes
- Rest Areas: Fewer rest areas along the route, but picnic spots available
4. National Route 20 (Hachiōji Bypass)
A local road bypassing Hachiōji City, offering an alternative route for drivers.
- Speed Limit: Lower speed limits due to urban areas and residential zones
- Traffic Congestion: Potential for traffic congestion during peak hours
- Local Attractions: Passes by local attractions like Tachikawa Air Base and Hachiōji City Park
5. Hachiōji City Park
A popular city park with walking trails, sports facilities, and a lake. Ideal for outdoor activities.
- Activities Offered: Offers various sports facilities like tennis courts and soccer fields
- Natural Scenery: Provides a peaceful environment amidst natural scenery
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with parking available
6. Hachiōji City Museum of Art
A museum showcasing traditional and contemporary Japanese art. Offers a cultural experience for travelers.
- Art Exhibits: Features rotating exhibitions of traditional and modern art
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with parking available
- Restrictions: May have entry fees and specific opening hours
7. Sagamiko Green Fountain Land
An amusement park with water attractions, offering fun and relaxation for families.
- Attractions: Offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and other attractions
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with parking available
- Entry Fees: Requires an entrance fee for park access
8. Okutama Campground
A camping site near Okutama City, offering a chance to connect with nature.
- Activities Offered: Offers activities like hiking, fishing, and canoeing
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access due to remote location
- Facilities: Provides camping facilities like restrooms, showers, and BBQ areas
9. Tachikawa Air Base
A Japanese Air Self-Defense Force base open to visitors for tours.
- Activities Offered: Offers guided tours of the facility and aircraft displays
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with parking available for visitors
- Schedule: Requires booking in advance and follows a specific tour schedule
10. Hachiōji City Sports Center
A sports complex with facilities for various activities like swimming, basketball, and tennis.
- Activities Offered: Offers a variety of sports facilities and classes
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with parking available
- Fees: May require fees for facility use and classes
11. Okutama Dam
A hydroelectric dam and popular tourist destination offering scenic views.
- Activities Offered: Offers hiking trails, boat tours, and fishing opportunities
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access due to remote location
- Operating Hours: May have specific visiting hours and days
12. Okutama Onsen Village
A traditional Japanese hot spring village offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Activities Offered: Offers various hot spring baths, massage services, and dining options
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access due to remote location
- Accommodation: Provides lodging options for overnight stays
13. Okutama Wildlife Park
A park dedicated to the conservation of local wildlife and offers educational tours.
- Activities Offered: Offers guided tours, animal exhibits, and interactive experiences
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access due to remote location
- Entry Fees: Requires an entrance fee for park access
14. Okutama Sightseeing Bus
A bus service connecting Okutama with major tourist attractions like the dam and onsen village.
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access to the bus station
- Tickets: Offers day passes and hop-on, hop-off service options
- Schedule: Follows a specific schedule with limited departures per day
15. Okutama Mountain Trail (Mt. Mitake Hiking Trail)
A challenging hiking trail that leads to Mt. Mitake, offering breathtaking views.
- Difficulty Level: Considered a difficult hike due to steep inclines and narrow paths
- Accessibility: Requires a car for access to the trailhead, as it's located in a remote area
- Equipment: May require hiking equipment like sturdy shoes and trekking poles