About
Ebina Service Area (Nobori/Outbound), the busiest service area in Japan with approximately 60,000 visitors daily. Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Tomei Expressway (ๆฑๅ้ซ้้่ทฏ) is a national expressway on Honshu connecting Tokyo and Nagoya, operated by Central Nippon Expressway Company (NEXCO Central). For travelers heading from Tokyo to Fujikawaguchiko via the alternative southern route, the Tomei Expressway provides a distinctly different character from the more direct Chuo Expressway, with service areas showcasing Kanagawa and eastern Shizuoka cultures rather than Yamanashi's mountainous character. ๐
The Tomei route is one of Japan's most heavily traveled expressways, with some sections handling over 100,000 vehicles daily. Service areas are strategically placed approximately every 50 km, while smaller parking areas appear roughly every 15-20 km, ensuring comfortable breaks for long-distance travelers. ๐
Cultural & Historical Significance
Japanese service areas reflect the cultural value of "omotenashi" (selfless hospitality). Restroom cleanliness, facility maintenance, and attention to visitor needs exemplify this principle. International travelers consistently note the exceptional quality of Japanese highway facilities compared to global counterparts. ๐
Service areas serve as prime locations for purchasing "omiyage" (souvenirs) - an important aspect of Japanese gift-giving culture. Travelers traditionally bring local specialties back for family, friends, and colleagues. ๐
Several major service areas carry the "EXPASA" designation, a brand NEXCO Central introduced during large-scale renovations beginning in fiscal 2010. EXPASA represents a transformational concept shifting service areas from "transit facilities" to "stay destinations" - commercial complexes where travelers are encouraged to spend extended time enjoying diverse facilities, dining, shopping, and entertainment. ๐
Visiting Information
Complete Facility List: Tokyo to Gotemba
Major Service Areas:
- Ebina SA (EXPASA Ebina) - 31.5 miles (50 km) from Tokyo, 35.431556ยฐN 139.400139ยฐE
- Ashigara SA (EXPASA Ashigara) - Approximately 80 km from Tokyo
Parking Areas:
- Nakai PA - 21.7 km from Ebina
- Ayuzawa PA - 39.9 km from Ebina
- Komakado PA - Between Gotemba and Susono interchanges (exceptional Mount Fuji views)
Access: Directly accessible from Tomei Expressway (downbound/outbound direction from Tokyo) Hours: 24 hours daily (all major facilities) Route Context: Tokyo to Gotemba IC: ~100 km, 1h 13m - 1h 40m Current Status: All facilities fully operational
The Experience
Ebina Service Area (EXPASA Ebina)
Ebina Service Area holds the distinction of being Japan's busiest expressway service area, with approximately 60,000 visitors daily. It serves as the only service area in Kanagawa Prefecture, making it the first major stop when departing Tokyo. ๐
Distance from Tokyo: 31.5 miles (approximately 40-45 minutes)
Comprehensive Facilities:
- Large parking lot with spaces for both regular and large vehicles
- Multiple gas stations
- Restrooms with diaper-changing stations and multifunction toilets
- Free Wi-Fi, ATM, certified Tourist Information Center (JNTO Category 1)
- Duty-free shop
- Over 50 retail stores and restaurants
- 24-hour food court options
- "Platto Park" access point allowing entry from general roads
- EV quick charging stations
- Automated external defibrillators (AED)
Food Specialties:
- Melon Bread (ใกใญใณใใณ): Ebina SA's signature item - sweet bun with crispy cookie-dough-like crust
- Shrimp Ebiyaki: Popular local snack from Ebina Chaya
- Atsugi Pork: Dishes featuring local Usui Farm pork
- Tokyo Banana Soft Serve: Exclusive flavor not available elsewhere
- Yoshinoya and other national chain restaurants
- Regional souvenirs from Tokyo, Yokohama, Shizuoka, and Hakone
Visitor Experience: Due to its status as Japan's busiest service area, Ebina can experience significant crowds, especially during weekend mornings (9-11 AM), holiday periods, and meal times (12-1 PM, 6-7 PM). Despite crowds, the comprehensive facilities and diverse food options make it an excellent first stop when leaving Tokyo. The concierge station provides traffic updates, local recommendations, and sightseeing information, particularly useful for unfamiliar travelers. ๐
For less crowded experience, visit early morning (before 8 AM) or mid-afternoon (2-4 PM).
Ashigara Service Area (EXPASA Ashigara)
Ashigara Service Area facility offering Mount Fuji views and comprehensive amenities. Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ashigara Service Area transformed into EXPASA Ashigara following substantial renovations in 2010, embodying the "stay service area" concept. The facility is renowned for its Mount Fuji viewing opportunities and comprehensive amenities designed for extended visits. ๐
Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 80 km Special Access: Features Smart Interchange (ETC card required)
Comprehensive Facilities:
- Large parking lot
- Gas stations
- Observation deck with Mount Fuji views
- Multiple restaurants, some featuring Fuji-view dining
- Retail shops specializing in Hakone and Izu regional products
- Warm bath facility (onsen)
- Dog park for pet travelers
- "Platto Park" accessible via Ashigara Smart IC
- Standard amenities (restrooms, Wi-Fi, ATM, concierge, EV charging, AED)
Food Specialties:
- Local delicacies from Hakone and Izu regions
- Regional confectionery and specialty foods
- Restaurant options with Mount Fuji views
- Halal-certified dining options available
Mount Fuji Viewing: Ashigara SA is particularly celebrated for its Mount Fuji views on clear days. The observation deck provides unobstructed sightlines to Japan's iconic peak, making it a popular photography stop. October generally offers excellent visibility with clear autumn skies. ๐
Visitor Experience: Ashigara offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling Ebina SA. The "stay service area" design encourages travelers to spend time enjoying facilities rather than rushing through. The warm bath facility provides a rare opportunity to experience onsen without leaving the expressway, while the dog park accommodates pet owners on long journeys. ๐
The Smart Interchange connection means travelers can access Ashigara SA from local roads without entering the expressway (ETC card required), making it accessible to non-highway travelers as well. ๐
Komakado Parking Area
Location: Between Gotemba and Susono interchanges, Shizuoka Prefecture Opening Date: April 2017
Komakado PA stands out among parking areas for its exceptional Mount Fuji viewing opportunities. The facility was specifically designed with low lighting poles (5m height) using LED technology to preserve unobstructed mountain views. ๐
Facilities:
- Parking for 50 small vehicles and 35 large vehicles
- Restrooms
- Entry/exit access to local roads (National Route 246)
- Vending machines
On clear days, Komakado PA offers splendid views of Mount Fuji, making it a highly recommended photography stop despite its smaller size. The low-profile infrastructure ensures visitors enjoy uninterrupted mountain vistas. October typically provides excellent viewing conditions with clear autumn skies. ๐
Practical Visiting Tips
Timing Your Stops
Service Area Spacing: With major facilities approximately 50 km apart and parking areas every 15-20 km, plan breaks based on comfort rather than availability - facilities are plentiful.
Recommended Stop Duration:
- Quick break (restroom, vending): 10-15 minutes at parking areas
- Standard break (restroom, coffee, browse): 20-30 minutes at service areas
- Extended break (meal, shopping, observation): 45-60 minutes at EXPASA facilities
Route-Specific Recommendations
For One-Stop Strategy: Choose either Ebina SA (early break, 40-45 minutes from Tokyo) or Ashigara SA (later break, closer to Gotemba with Mount Fuji views). Ebina offers more comprehensive facilities and food options; Ashigara provides better mountain viewing and a more relaxed atmosphere.
For Two-Stop Strategy: Brief stop at Ebina SA (coffee, restroom, quick snack) + Extended break at Ashigara SA (meal, observation deck, photography). This approach balances early-journey refreshment with scenic enjoyment closer to the destination.
Alternative Viewing Stop: Consider Komakado PA for a quick Mount Fuji photography stop if skipping other facilities.
Best Photo Spots
Mount Fuji Photography:
- Ashigara SA observation deck - Comprehensive Fuji views
- Komakado PA - Intimate mountain perspectives with low infrastructure
- Best light: Morning (before 10 AM) provides best clarity and softer shadows
- October advantage: Excellent visibility with crisp autumn air
Family-Friendly Features
All service areas include:
- Diaper-changing stations (24-hour access)
- Baby bottle warmers with 70ยฐC+ hot water
- Multifunction toilets and wheelchair access
- Designated disabled parking spaces
Ashigara SA adds:
- Dog park for traveling with pets
- Warm bath facility for family relaxation
Money-Saving Options
Free Amenities:
- Wi-Fi at all major facilities
- Water fountains
- Rest areas and seating
- Observation decks
- AED and emergency services
Budget Dining:
- Vending machines at parking areas
- Yoshinoya and chain restaurants at major SAs
- Convenience store options
- Pack snacks from Tokyo if minimizing costs
Cultural Etiquette
Payment: Place cash/cards in the small tray at checkout counters (standard Japanese custom) Handling merchandise: Handle items with care; refold clothing after examining Politeness: Greet staff with "konnichiwa" and thank with "arigato gozaimasu" Noise levels: Maintain quiet voices; Japanese shopping culture values peaceful atmosphere
October Travel Considerations
Weather and Viewing Conditions
October represents an ideal time for this route:
- Temperature: 15-22ยฐC (59-72ยฐF) - Mild and comfortable
- Typhoon Season: Mostly concluded, leading to clearer skies
- Mount Fuji Visibility: Excellent viewing probability with crisp autumn air
- Autumn Foliage: Early-season colors beginning to appear in mountainous areas
Traffic Conditions
While October 23, 2025 (Thursday) should experience lighter weekday traffic, autumn foliage season can increase highway usage. Early morning departures help avoid congestion. Check NEXCO Central's website for current traffic conditions: https://www.c-nexco.co.jp/en/
Route Integration
Connection to Fujikawaguchiko
After continuing from service areas through Gotemba IC:
- Exit at Gotemba IC (end of Tomei Expressway segment)
- Continue via local roads (Route 138) to Fujikawaguchiko (30-40 minutes)
- Route passes through Gotemba city area
- Approach Fujikawaguchiko from the south, offering different Mount Fuji perspectives than Chuo route
Comparison with Chuo Expressway Service Areas
Tomei Route Service Area Characteristics:
- Showcase Kanagawa and eastern Shizuoka regional culture
- Coastal regional influences from Suruga Bay
- More heavily traveled expressway with comprehensive facilities
- EXPASA "stay destination" concept at major facilities
- Strong Mount Fuji viewing opportunities at Ashigara and Komakado
Chuo Route Service Area Characteristics:
- Reflect Yamanashi mountain culture
- Inland mountainous regional character
- Generally less crowded than Tomei facilities
- Different regional specialties and food offerings
Location:
Source: attractions/tokyo-to-fujikawaguchiko-alternative-route/tomei-expressway-service-areas.md