Major Highways & Driving Tips in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan
1. Seto-Ohashi Bridge
A iconic double-deck bridge connecting Takamatsu to Kagawa and Okayama. It's the longest combined road-railway bridge in the world.
- Scenic View: Offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
- Transport Hub: Connections between Shikoku and Honshu islands are facilitated here.
- Length Record: Stretches over 13 kilometers, making it an engineering marvel.
2. Kagawa Junction (Takamatsu IC)
A major intersection connecting the Kagawa Expressway with other national highways. It serves as a gateway to various attractions in Takamatsu.
- Convenient Location: Easy access to popular destinations like Ritsurin Garden and Takamatsu Port.
- Traffic Management: Effective traffic control systems ensure smooth flow of vehicles.
- Information Center: Provides tourist information and assistance for travelers.
3. National Route 11 (Takamatsu-Naruto Expressway)
A fast, tolled expressway connecting Takamatsu with Naruto Strait and the rest of Honshu. It offers a quick route to major cities like Osaka and Tokyo.
- Speed: Allows for high-speed travel due to its well-maintained, limited access design.
- Toll Fees: Requires payment of toll fees at designated points along the route.
- Time Savings: Significantly reduces travel time compared to regular national routes.
4. Route 32
A major national highway connecting Takamatsu with Kochi and Matsuyama. It offers scenic views of the Shikoku countryside.
- Scenic Drive: Offers beautiful vistas of mountains, rivers, and rural villages.
- Alternative Route: Provides an alternative to the expressway for those who prefer a more leisurely drive.
- Local Experiences: Allows travelers to experience local food, culture, and attractions along the way.
5. Takamatsu Port
A significant ferry port connecting Takamatsu with other islands in the Seto Inland Sea and mainland Honshu.
- Ferry Connections: Offers ferry services to destinations like Uno, Naoshima, and Teshima.
- Cruise Ships: Accommodates cruise ships during their voyages around the Inland Sea.
- Marine Activities: Provides opportunities for fishing, sailing, and other marine activities.
6. Naruto Strait Bridge
A massive suspension bridge crossing the Naruto Strait, famous for its whirlpools. It connects Tokushima and Kagawa prefectures.
- Scenic View: Offers a unique view of the natural phenomenon known as 'naruto' whirlpools.
- Transport Link: Connects Tokushima and Kagawa prefectures, facilitating travel between them.
- Engineering Marvel: Is the second-longest suspension bridge in Japan and a testament to modern engineering.
7. Tsushima Ferry Terminal
A ferry terminal connecting Takamatsu with Tsushima Island and the rest of Kyushu.
- Ferry Connections: Offers ferry services to destinations like Fukuoka and Kitakyushu.
- Island Experiences: Allows travelers to experience the unique culture, food, and attractions of Tsushima Island.
- Marine Activities: Provides opportunities for fishing, sailing, and other marine activities.
8. National Route 56 (Takamatsu-Marugame Expressway)
A tolled expressway connecting Takamatsu with Marugame and the rest of Kagawa Prefecture.
- Speed: Allows for high-speed travel due to its well-maintained, limited access design.
- Toll Fees: Requires payment of toll fees at designated points along the route.
- Time Savings: Significantly reduces travel time compared to regular national routes.
9. Marugame Port
A port city in Kagawa Prefecture, offering ferry services to other islands in the Seto Inland Sea and mainland Honshu.
- Ferry Connections: Offers ferry services to destinations like Takamatsu, Uno, and Imabari.
- Cruise Ships: Accommodates cruise ships during their voyages around the Inland Sea.
- Marine Activities: Provides opportunities for fishing, sailing, and other marine activities.
10. Road Safety Tips (Speed Limits)
Ensure adherence to speed limits on national highways and expressways for the safety of all road users.
- Safety First: Speed limits are designed to minimize accidents and ensure safe travel.
- Fines and Penalties: Exceeding the speed limit may result in fines, points on your driving record, or even imprisonment.
- Respect for Others: Driving within the speed limit shows consideration and respect for other road users.
11. Road Safety Tips (Seatbelts)
Always wear seatbelts to protect yourself and your passengers in case of an accident.
- Safety First: Wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the risk of serious injury or death during a crash.
- Legal Requirements: Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants under Japanese law.
- Responsibility: Wearing a seatbelt demonstrates personal responsibility and care for your passengers.
12. Road Safety Tips (Drinking and Driving)
Never drink alcohol and drive. Designate a sober driver or use public transportation when celebrating.
- Safety First: Drunk driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
- Legal Consequences: Drunk driving can result in fines, imprisonment, and loss of your driver's license.
- Responsibility: Drinking responsibly is essential for ensuring safety on the road.
13. Road Safety Tips (Distractions)
Avoid distractions while driving to focus on the road and ensure safe travel.
- Safety First: Distractions can cause accidents by diverting your attention from the road.
- Legal Consequences: Using mobile devices or other distractions while driving can result in fines and points on your driving record.
- Responsibility: Driving responsibly is essential for the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users.
14. Road Safety Tips (Vehicle Condition)
Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before setting out on long drives.
- Safety First: A well-maintained vehicle reduces the risk of breakdowns and accidents.
- Reliability: Regular maintenance ensures that your vehicle is reliable during travel.
- Efficiency: A well-maintained vehicle is more fuel-efficient, saving you money on gas.
15. Road Safety Tips (Emergency Kits)
Carry an emergency kit containing essential items like a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and warning triangles.
- Safety First: Emergency kits can help you handle unexpected situations on the road.
- Preparedness: Being prepared for emergencies ensures that you can respond effectively in a crisis.
- Peace of Mind: Having an emergency kit provides peace of mind during your journey.