Japan National Route 8, National highway in central Japan
This route runs 574 kilometers through six prefectures, linking Niigata on the Sea of Japan coast to parts of Kyoto Prefecture. It passes through flat rice paddies, coastal towns and mountain passes between Toyama and Fukui.
The Ministry of Transport created the road in 1952, following old trading paths from the Edo period. Later improvements linked it to the country's growing expressway network.
Farmers' markets along the route sell rice, seafood and handmade ceramics from the coastal and mountain regions. Visitors often stop at small temples and shrines that have stood beside the route for centuries.
Drivers planning the full route should allow ten to twelve hours without long stops. Winter driving requires snow chains and extra time, especially through mountainous sections.
During a winter storm in 2018 in Fukui, hundreds of cars sat trapped in snow for over two full days. Residents brought hot meals and blankets to the stranded travelers.
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