Karisaka Tunnel, Road tunnel on National Route 140, Japan
The Karisaka Tunnel is a road tunnel on National Route 140 that stretches 6,625 meters through mountainous terrain. It connects the Chichibu region in Saitama Prefecture with Yamanashi Prefecture and significantly reduces travel time between these two areas.
Construction began in 1988 and breakthrough was achieved in 1994, leading to opening in 1998. The project was necessary to close a long-standing connection gap between the two prefectures.
The tunnel represents Japanese engineering capabilities in creating infrastructure solutions through challenging mountain terrain to connect different regions of the country.
Passage through the tunnel is subject to tolls that vary based on vehicle type. Cars and larger vehicles pay different rates, so drivers should be prepared for the fees based on what they are driving.
The tunnel employs the New Austrian Tunneling method, specifically designed to handle varying geological conditions throughout its length.
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