上信越道：坂城・戸倉・上山田IC→更埴JCT
Sakaki, Togura, Kamiyamada IC Sakaki is a picturesque town in Nagano Prefecture. Situated along the Chikuma River, it lies between the cities of Ueda and Chikuma, offering a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and industrial prowess. Sakaki is renowned as a “town of manufacturing,” with a strong industrial base centered around machinery and metal processing. Over 200 manufacturing companies operate here. Chikumagawa-Sakaki Parking The Chikuma River is the longest river in Japan, flowing through Nagano Prefecture before continuing as the Shinano River into Niigata Prefecture and eventually emptying into the Sea of Japan. Originating from the northeastern foothills of Mount Kobushi on the border of Saitama, Yamanashi, and Nagano Prefectures, the Chikuma River traverses the mountainous terrains of Nagano. It flows through cities like Ueda, Chikuma, and Nagano, before entering Niigata Prefecture, where it is known as the Shinano River. The river has inspired numerous poems and songs, reflecting its deep cultural resonance in Japan. Its scenic beauty, especially during the cherry blossom season, attracts many visitors. The Chikuma River valley offers various outdoor activities. The flat valley is ideal for cycling, with rental services available in towns like Kamiyamada. Activities such as rafting, canoeing, and stand-up paddling are popular along the river. On the other hand, the Chikuma River has been prone to flooding, necessitating extensive flood control measures. Efforts like the construction of diversion channels have been implemented to mitigate flood risks and protect surrounding communities. Now we are approaching Kōshoku Junction. Located in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture, this highway junction is a key interchange connecting the Jōshin-etsu Expressway (E18) with the Nagano Expressway (E19). It facilitates smooth travel across central Japan, linking areas like Ueda, Matsumoto, and Nagano. At this junction, we’ll merge onto the Nagano Expressway At this junction, we’ll merge onto the Nagano Expressway
heading toward Matsumoto IC. Koshoku JCT If we stay on the Jōshin-etsu Expressway and skip the Nagano Expressway at Kōshoku JCT, we’ll continue north through Nagano Prefecture toward the Sea of Japan coast in Niigata. The next major city is Nagano City, famous for Zenkoji Temple and the 1998 Olympics. From there, the road heads to Iiyama, known for rice fields, snow, and Nozawa Onsen. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Let’s save it for our next road trip! Now, we are on the Nagano Expressway. Thanks for watching!
Jōshin-etsu Expressway: Sakaki, Togura, Kamiyamada IC – Koshoku JCT
April, 2025
Join us on a short drive from Sakaki, Togura, Kamiyamada IC to Kōshoku Junction, cruising along the Chikuma River in central Nagano Prefecture.
This peaceful stretch of the Jōshin-etsu Expressway passes orchard-lined slopes and gentle hills, eventually reaching the pivotal Kōshoku JCT, where the route branches toward either Nagano City or Matsumoto via the Nagano Expressway.
This video is perfect for hobby drivers, virtual road trippers, and anyone looking for a relaxing escape into regional Japan.
Turn on closed captions for an English commentary tour about the location.
🛣️ Route: Jōshin-etsu Expressway: Sakaki, Togura, Kamiyamada IC → Kōshoku JCT
📍 Location: Nagano Prefecture, Japan
🎥 Filmed: April 2025
🎵 Ambient driving sounds (no music, no talking / ASMR-style)
📝 An English commentary tour is available throughout the video with closed captions.