{"id":17091,"date":"2017-10-18T14:54:45","date_gmt":"2017-10-18T05:54:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/welcome.city.matsumoto.nagano.jp\/modules\/xpressme\/?p=17091"},"modified":"2017-10-18T14:54:45","modified_gmt":"2017-10-18T05:54:45","slug":"road-trip-special-passes-for-tourists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/blog.visitmatsumoto.com\/en\/transportation\/road-trip-special-passes-for-tourists\/","title":{"rendered":"Road Trip!! Special Passes for Tourists"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Shuto_expressway_oi_toll_booth\"<\/a>
Image Source<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Convenient access to some of Japan\u2019s more remote regions with the following ETC (tolls) discount passes.<\/p>\n

Central Nippon Expressway Pass (CEP)<\/h2>\n

Explore the central area of Japan\u2019s largest island.<\/p>\n

Requires:<\/strong>
\n– Non-Japanese passport if you are a visitor\/proof of permanent residence in another country if you are Japanese
\n– Driver\u2019s license that is valid in Japan\u00a0\u00a0(or International Driving Permit)<\/p>\n

Rates<\/strong>
\nThe pass can be purchased for a period of as little as 2 days (5,000 yen) and up to 14 days (16,000 yen). Other optional areas can also be added.<\/p>\n

For more information on rates, participating rental companies, routes, and more please visit the Central Nippon Expressway Company website.<\/a><\/p>\n

*NEW* Japan Expressway Pass (JEP)<\/h2>\n

The new, expanded special discount ETC pass allows tourists to explore Japan from top to bottom (Hokkaido pass sold separately).<\/p>\n

Requires:<\/strong>
\n– Non-Japanese passport if you are a visitor\/proof of permanent residence in another country if you are Japanese
\n– Driver\u2019s license that is valid in Japan (or International Driving Permit)<\/p>\n

Rates<\/strong>
\n7-day pass: 20,000 yen
\n14-day pass: 34,000 yen<\/p>\n

For more information on participating rental companies, routes, driving tips, and more please visit the national expressway information site DoRaPuRa (E-NEXCO Drive Plaza) website.<\/a><\/p>\n

Reservations<\/strong>
\nReservation must be made through participating rental companies listed on the above websites.
\n
\n*WINTER DRIVING* <\/strong>
\nPlease note that areas within Nagano Prefecture require winter tires or tires with chains. Your car will be inspected before you are allowed to drive on certain roads. Fortunately, rent-a-car locations in the area typically offer their rentals with winter tires or chains at no extra cost.<\/p>\n

In addition, certain mountain passes are also closed during winter months as a result of heavy snowfall.<\/p>\n