Japan National Route 20, National highway in Tokyo and Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Japan National Route 20 is a major arterial road stretching roughly 225 kilometers (140 miles) from central Tokyo to Shiojiri in Nagano Prefecture. It crosses Kanagawa and Yamanashi prefectures, linking urban centers with mountainous rural areas.
The road follows the path of the historic Kōshū Kaidō, a trade route from the Edo period linking Tokyo with Kōfu. In the 20th century the line was upgraded to a modern highway and now serves long-distance traffic between the capital and mountain regions.
The route passes through several old post towns where travelers once rested and which still serve as local centers today. Along the way you see traditional inns and smaller shrines that recall the times when merchants and pilgrims covered this stretch on foot.
The road crosses numerous expressways and national routes, making it accessible at different points. The section through Yamanashi runs through mountain terrain with tight curves, while the stretch in urban areas is wider and more heavily trafficked.
Parts of the stretch near Sakurada Gate by Tokyo Imperial Palace were temporarily included in marathon courses during major sporting events. The section thus offers a backdrop that combines athletic competition with urban infrastructure.
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