Tokyo's Shuto Expressway (首都高, "Shutoko") is part road, part rollercoaster. Elevated lanes twist between office towers, dive into tunnels, cross the bay on long bridges and split at junctions stacked three levels high. It's also where you'll find the Wangan, Rainbow Bridge and the road to Daikoku PA.
From 1 October 2026, Shuto Expressway tolls for a standard car with ETC run from ¥300 to ¥2,130 per trip, based on distance (a 20 km trip is about ¥880). Cars without ETC pay the maximum. Exits can be on the right, lanes are narrow, and you should never stop or reverse if you miss a turn.
How tolls work
Tolls are distance-based. Since 1 October 2026, a standard car with ETC pays between ¥300 and ¥2,130 per trip, depending on how far you go. A typical 20 km trip costs about ¥880.
Cars without ETC pay the maximum toll regardless of distance, so ETC is both cheaper and easier.
The October 2026 change raised the standard-car rate per kilometre by about 10%, to help pay for maintaining an ageing elevated network. The minimum toll stayed at ¥300.
What is ETC?
ETC is Japan's electronic toll system. A card sits in a reader inside the car; as you drive through the purple ETC lane at about 20 km/h, the barrier lifts and the toll is charged.
- Many rental cars have ETC readers; the card is usually rented or supplied separately.
- The Shuto Expressway has been converting entrances to ETC-only. Without ETC, some entrances may be unusable.
- Never stop in an ETC lane. If the barrier doesn't open, stop safely and follow staff instructions.
Driving tips
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Junction ahead | Read overhead signs early — exits can be on the right |
| Narrow lanes | Keep centred, especially in a wide car |
| Short merges | Match speed and merge smoothly; drivers usually let you in |
| Missed exit | Take the next one. Never stop or reverse |
| Tight curves | Respect the posted limit, typically 50–80 km/h |
Rest areas
Shuto Expressway parking areas (PAs) are small compared with intercity expressway service areas. Daikoku and Tatsumi are the famous ones for car culture. Some PAs are closed at night at times — see the Tatsumi PA guide.
On the ARTCARS night drive
All tolls are included in the price, and the guide picks the route, so you don't have to work any of this out. You just drive. Book the night drive.
Frequently asked questions
How much are Shuto Expressway tolls?
For a standard car with ETC, ¥300 to ¥2,130 per trip from October 2026, depending on distance. Without ETC, you pay the maximum.
Can I pay Shuto Expressway tolls in cash?
At entrances with cash booths, yes. Some entrances are ETC-only.
Is the Shuto Expressway the same as other Japanese expressways?
No. The Shuto Expressway covers Tokyo and Yokohama. Intercity expressways are run by other operators with their own tolls.
Is the Shuto Expressway dangerous?
It's demanding rather than dangerous. Narrow lanes and quick junctions need concentration, which is why a host beside you helps.