Japan's expressway tolls are based on distance and operated by NEXCO. An ETC card (included with VanTripJapan rentals) gives you automatic 30% discounts and lets you pass through toll gates without stopping.
How It Works
- Enter the expressway through the gate
- ETC card is read automatically (no stopping needed)
- Exit through the gate — toll is charged automatically
- Discounts applied based on time of day
ETC Discount Schedule
| Time Period | Discount |
|---|---|
| Weekday off-peak (9pm-6am) | 30% off |
| Weekend/holidays | 30% off (rural sections) |
| Midnight (0am-4am) | Up to 50% off |
Alternative: Expressway Passes
Foreigners can buy the Kyushu Expressway Pass (KEP) for unlimited highway use. However, for most 5-7 day trips, using the ETC card with standard discounts is more cost-effective.
Non-Toll Routes
Japan has excellent national routes (kokudo) that are free. Routes 3, 10, and 57 cross Kyushu without tolls. They are slower but pass through charming towns and have more Michi-no-Eki stops.
ETC card included with every rental
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