Toll cards in Japan ETCカード

Published on : 08/06/2016
by : J.R

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Traffic jams, tolls, ETC...

Japan's toll gates represent 30% of the causes of traffic congestion on highways. Thanks to ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) gates, they'll soon be nothing but a bad memory.

Japan Tourism figures soared in 2014, and it became necessary for major players in the area of Japanese traffic circulation to offer their services to tourists.

Recently there are more companies starting up who want to give foreigners access to services normally only used by Japanese tourists (due to the language barrier and terms of use). One of these services is the ETC card system.

The ETC system has multiple benefits: pollution and traffic reduction, convenience, and ecological advantages.

What is ETC?

It's a system with a device that you put in the car, and which, through its wireless transmitter, automatically pay the tolls without the driver having to stop the vehicle at a toll booth. Of course, it is necessary that each device is equipped with a valid payment card.

Now it is becoming common to see car rental companies offer a variety of options when renting, some of which include ETC cards preloaded with a certain amount. This way there's no need to own a car or do things the Japanese way.

Another great thing about this system: It's easy to switch the card inserted during the trip, so you can split the costs among travellers.

Safety and Security

Safety rules are generally made very clear, but here are a few reminders to be sure you can use the ETC system smoothly:

Ensure your speed is about 20 km/h when going through the gate, to make sure the contact works correctly with the terminals and you do not damage the safety barriers. Also, never brake suddenly because the traffic can be heavy around toll gates.
Respect the safety distances recommended by the Japanese government.
Be sure you have correctly inserted the card into the communication box: this simple check can save a lot of unnecessary frustration.
Remember to keep the card with you - it looks just like a credit card. Although the crime rate in Japan is low, the card could be tempting and easy to steal.
Motorway entrances regularly have signs marking the presence of payment by ETC. That said, it is still possible to pay with the ETC device by asking the agent in the toll booth.

How can you get one?

Most major banks issue ETC cards, and it is therefore possible to do so by going to one of their branches. For residents in Japan, it is also possible to combine your credit card and ETC card on a single card.

A warning: although it is easy to obtain the card from partner banks, they may request a meeting, either remotely or locally. It is still a credit card, and the security measures remain the same. It is strongly recommended that you contact your agency for these details.

It is also recommended to pay with the ETC card by asking Nissan Rent a Car at the following agencies: