Major Expressways Shut Down, Travelers Advised to Use Public Transport
Several major highways across the Kansai region, including key routes to Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, have been closed since the early morning of December 26th due to hazardous icy conditions on the road surfaces. The widespread closures are causing significant disruption, and authorities are urging travelers to avoid driving and seek alternative transportation.
Affected Areas and Current Situation
The West Nippon Expressway Company (NEXCO West) has confirmed closures on multiple sections of vital expressways. The main arteries affected include:
- The Hanshin Expressway network, which serves the greater Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area.
- Sections of the Meishin Expressway, a critical route connecting Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto to Nagoya.
These closures have resulted in severe traffic congestion on local roads as vehicles are forced to divert. NEXCO West is currently engaged in extensive de-icing operations, spraying anti-freezing agents on the roads. However, a firm timeline for reopening has not yet been announced, as the work is dependent on weather conditions.
Background: An Unusual Cold Snap
The Kansai region, particularly the plains of Osaka and Kobe, typically experiences mild winters with infrequent snow or ice. This event was caused by a sudden and strong cold wave that swept across western Japan, causing temperatures to plummet below freezing overnight. This rapid temperature drop, combined with moisture in the air, led to the formation of “black ice” – a thin, transparent layer of ice that is extremely dangerous as it is nearly invisible to drivers. Such extensive expressway closures due to icing are not a common occurrence in this part of Japan, catching many drivers unprepared.
Impact on Travelers and Future Outlook
The timing of these closures, during the busy year-end travel season, is expected to have a significant impact on tourism and transportation.
Access to Airports and Major Cities
Travelers heading to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM) by car or airport limousine bus should anticipate major delays or cancellations. Access to popular tourist destinations like Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara from Osaka is severely restricted by car. Journeys that would normally take an hour could be delayed indefinitely.
Recommendations for Visitors
It is strongly recommended that all visitors postpone travel by car until the expressways are confirmed to be safe. Fortunately, the Kansai region is served by one of the world’s most efficient and dense public transportation networks.
- Use the Train Network: JR, Hankyu, Hanshin, and Kintetsu railway lines connect all major cities and tourist spots. Trains are operating as usual and are the most reliable mode of transport under these circumstances. The Shinkansen (bullet train) also remains a dependable option for longer-distance travel.
- Check Official Information: Before planning your journey, please check the latest traffic information from official sources like the [NEXCO West website](https://www.w-nexco.co.jp/) or reliable traffic information apps.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation, but with cold temperatures expected to persist, travelers should prepare for potential disruptions to continue. Planning ahead and utilizing the region’s excellent train system will be key to navigating Kansai safely and efficiently.
