Tokyo Highways

The Tokyo Elevated Highway C1, also known as the Inner Circular Route or Shuto Expressway C1, is a vital expressway loop in central Tokyo that forms the heart of the city’s road network. Elevated above the bustling streets, it encircles major districts like Shinjuku, Ginza, Shibuya, and Marunouchi, offering drivers unique views of the urban landscape, especially at night when the city lights create a stunning backdrop. Designed to maximize efficiency in Tokyo’s limited space, the C1 features tight curves, multi-level interchanges, and narrow lanes, but its lack of an emergency lane poses a significant challenge. Because vehicles are not allowed to move, even after minor accidents, the highway often experiences heavy congestion and gridlock. Despite these challenges, the C1 remains a testament to Japanese urban engineering, connecting key areas of the city and serving as a crucial part of Tokyo’s transportation infrastructure.