Japanese Expressways

We have booked car for a week in Japan and will drive also Expressways. Are tolls paid by cash or do they accept credit cards? Operating with automats or meeting officers?

Tolls can be paid only by cash with the exception of "ETC" credit cards that are probably not worth obtaining unless you tend to live here.

Payment is done through either automats or meeting officers. It depends on the gate. Automats usually accept 1000 yen bills and will give you change.

However, there will be a lot of traffic on weekends, and exact amounts of coins are appreciated. There will be a coin tray in your car. The amount will be shown on an electronic board by the gate.

Btw, I hope you are aware that in the cities where there are plenty of public transportation Expressways are extremely tricky, although it is much easier to drive in the countryside.

Drive safely!

No, actually, the expressway tolls can be paid with major credit cards. I've done it with an american-issued Mastercard. Very convenient! Away from the major cities, the expressways are very easy to navigate. Be sure to stop at a rest stop or two to check out the food & souvenirs.