Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common equivalent for 'expressway' is 高速道路 (kōsoku dōro), but the term 自動車道 (jidōshadō) is also used in specific names. This guide covers how to refer to expressways in general and in proper names, along with related vocabulary for toll roads and interchanges.
Referring to an expressway in general conversation or writing.
The standard word for 'expressway' or 'highway' in Japanese. It is widely understood and used in both spoken and written contexts.
高速道路で渋滞に巻き込まれた。
I got stuck in a traffic jam on the expressway.
次の高速道路の出口で降りてください。
Please get off at the next expressway exit.
An abbreviation of 高速道路, commonly used in casual conversation and in compound words like 高速バス (express bus).
高速に乗る前にガソリンを入れよう。
Let's get gas before getting on the expressway.
Referring to a specific named expressway, such as the Tomei Expressway.
Many named expressways in Japan use 自動車道 (literally 'motor vehicle road') in their official names. For example, 東名高速道路 is also called 東名自動車道.
東名自動車道は東京と名古屋を結んでいる。
The Tomei Expressway connects Tokyo and Nagoya.
Some expressways use 高速道路 in their official names, such as 首都高速道路 (Shuto Expressway). This pattern is also used when referring to expressways in general with a location name.
首都高速道路はいつも混んでいる。
The Shuto Expressway is always crowded.
Emphasizing that the expressway requires a toll.
Literally 'toll road'. While not all expressways are toll roads, most Japanese expressways are, so this term is often used interchangeably in context.
この先は有料道路になります。
This road becomes a toll road ahead.
Referring to the point where you enter or exit an expressway.
Commonly abbreviated as IC (アイシー). Used for expressway interchanges.
次のインターチェンジで降りてください。
Please get off at the next interchange.
General word for 'exit', used on expressways as well.
In casual conversation, 高速 (kōsoku) is often used instead of the full 高速道路 (kōsoku dōro). For example, 「高速で行く？」 (Shall we take the expressway?).
高速道路 is the generic term, while 自動車道 is typically part of a proper name. However, some expressways use 高速道路 in their names (e.g., 首都高速道路). When in doubt, use 高速道路 for the general concept.
I missed the expressway exit.