Japan National Route 1, Primary national highway in central Honshu, Japan
Japan National Route 1 is a national highway through central Honshu, connecting eight prefectures between the eastern coast and Osaka Bay. The route crosses mountains and valleys, runs along coastlines, and passes through both densely built urban areas and rural plains.
This highway emerged during the Meiji era as a modern version of a link that travelers and merchants walked hundreds of years earlier. Posting points along the old route became towns and transport hubs.
This highway follows the old trading route between the eastern and western capitals. Travelers encounter different regional customs and dialects along the way.
Different sections have parallel routes, some following the coast and others running through mountainous terrain. Rest areas are distributed along the route and offer parking as well as basic facilities.
Parts of the route run directly beside sections of the old path, so modern cars pass next to preserved stone steps and trail markers. Some towns preserve old inns that once hosted walkers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
