As of March 2025, about 95.3% of drivers using highways are utilizing the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) service. Although most people use ETC, registering for the “ETC Mileage Service” is necessary to maximize benefits.
The introduction of new rules for the “ETC Holiday Discount,” which was initially scheduled for March 2025, has been postponed until the end of July due to delays in system development. A further delay occurred due to a system issue at NEXCO Central Japan, meaning existing discounts remain unchanged for the summer travel season.
Gas prices have stabilized since May after the introduction of a subsidy, reducing costs to levels not seen since June to July 2023. Although geopolitical tensions in the Middle East pose a risk, the situation has temporarily calmed, avoiding a steep rise in crude oil prices.
While highway nighttime discounts have been under review, potential price increases were planned for this summer. The discount would still apply from midnight to 4 AM, but only for the distance actually traveled during those hours. However, implementation has been delayed, keeping current discounts.
The scope of “ETC Holiday Discounts” for leisure use has been increasingly limited, with major holiday periods like Golden Week, Obon, and New Year removed as eligible times, along with other noteworthy changes extending through 2025.
Additionally, “ETC Tour Passes,” allowing unlimited highway access, are facing similar restrictions. Overall, the ways to use highways cheaply have been narrowing each year.
by MagazineKey4532