By Car
AccessHow to access Myoko by car
Each year more and more foreign visitors access Myoko via car. If you do happen to have your own transport or rent a car getting to Myoko is actually pretty easy. I would recommend using the highways, but bear in mind these are not free. They are all toll roads. If you are using google maps or another navigation tool make sure you turn on use toll roads. The highways are usually not busy once you are out of the major city areas so your journey should be pretty smooth. Make sure you keep an eye out for the correct junction. If you miss your turn you may have to travel 15-20 min before you can come off and turn around.
Guide to traveling to Myoko via car
From Tokyo
Route
- Tokyo to Nagano: Start your journey on the Kan-Etsu Expressway (E17) towards Niigata. Continue for approximately 140 kilometers until you reach the Fujioka Junction.
- Nagano to Myoko Kogen: At the Fujioka Junction, switch to the Joshin-Etsu Expressway (E18) and head towards Nagano. Follow the expressway for about 160 kilometers. Exit at the Myoko-Kogen Interchange and follow the signs to Myoko Kogen.
Tips
- Estimated Travel Time: Around 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Tolls: Be prepared for toll fees, which can be paid via ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) for quicker passage.
- Rest Stops: Utilize service areas along the Kan-Etsu and Joshin-Etsu expressways for breaks and refreshments.
From Nagoya
Route
- Nagoya to Nagano: Depart from Nagoya on the Chuo Expressway (E20) heading towards Matsumoto. Continue on this route for approximately 230 kilometers until you reach the Okaya Junction.
- Nagano to Myoko Kogen: At the Okaya Junction, merge onto the Nagano Expressway (E19) and proceed towards Nagano for about 60 kilometers. Transition to the Joshin-Etsu Expressway (E18) at Nagano and drive towards Myoko. Exit at the Myoko-Kogen Interchange and follow the signs to Myoko Kogen.
Tips
- Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours, varying with traffic conditions.
- Tolls: Ensure you have cash or an ETC card for toll payments along the Chuo and Nagano expressways.
- Scenic Routes: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the Chuo Expressway, especially around the Kiso Valley and the Japanese Alps.
From Osaka
Route
- Osaka to Nagoya: Begin your drive on the Meishin Expressway (E1) heading east towards Nagoya. Travel for roughly 170 kilometers until you reach the Komaki Junction.
- Nagoya to Nagano: From the Komaki Junction, transition to the Chuo Expressway (E20) and follow the same route as described from Nagoya, continuing to Nagano.
- Nagano to Myoko Kogen: Merge onto the Nagano Expressway (E19) at Okaya Junction, then onto the Joshin-Etsu Expressway (E18) towards Myoko. Exit at the Myoko-Kogen Interchange and follow the signs to Myoko Kogen.
Tips
- Estimated Travel Time: Around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and driving speed.
- Tolls: Prepare for multiple tolls along the Meishin, Chuo, and Nagano expressways. ETC cards are recommended for convenience.
- Rest Stops: Take advantage of service areas such as the Lake Biwa Service Area for breaks and to enjoy local specialties.
