KAMISATO, SAITAMA PREFECTURE, JAPAN – A new access road, the Kannagawa Riverside Road, officially opened to traffic on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM JST (12:00 AM UTC). The roadway is designed to improve access to the popular Upperri Service Area and surrounding areas in Kamisato Town, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
The Kannagawa Riverside Road stretches approximately 2.0 kilometers (1.24 miles), connecting the Kamisato Smart Interchange to Prefectural Route 355 (Fujooka-Honjo Line) and then onward to National Route 254. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion on local roads and enhance regional connectivity, according to an announcement from Kamisato Town officials.
The road features two lanes of traffic in each direction, along with a 2.5-meter (8.2 feet) wide pedestrian walkway on each side. The total width of the roadway is 9.5 meters (31.2 feet). This design prioritizes both vehicular flow and pedestrian safety, a key consideration for a route serving a major rest stop and potential tourist destination.
The Kamisato Town government has designated the Upperri Service Area as a “regional exchange base” within its urban planning master plan. Officials anticipate the new road will stimulate both tourism and logistical activity in the area. By channeling traffic onto the new route, the town also hopes to reduce vehicle volume on local residential streets, improving safety for pedestrians and residents.
Beyond its everyday convenience, the Kannagawa Riverside Road is also intended to serve as a crucial alternate route during times of disaster. The town explained that having multiple routes available will ensure continued access for emergency services and the efficient transport of relief supplies, even if one route is compromised by an event like an earthquake or severe weather. This redundancy is a key component of the region’s disaster preparedness strategy.
The opening ceremony for the road was held in Kamisato Town on March 20th, with participation from local officials and members of the Honjo Police Department, who led a ceremonial procession along the new route. The Honjo Keizai Biz reported on the opening ceremony, showcasing images of the police escort.
This infrastructure project represents a significant investment in the accessibility and resilience of the Kamisato region. The improved connectivity is expected to benefit both local residents and visitors, contributing to the economic vitality of the area. For travelers utilizing the Upperri Service Area, the new road promises a smoother and more efficient journey.
The next scheduled update from Kamisato Town regarding infrastructure projects is expected in late June, as part of the town’s mid-year progress report. Residents and visitors can identify further information on the Kamisato Town official website: https://www.town.kamisato.saitama.jp/5755.htm.
Archysport will continue to monitor developments in regional infrastructure projects and their potential impact on sporting events and travel logistics.
