Akita Expressway
From Akita Wiki
National Route 7 (国道番号７) is an important road in Tohoku stretching from Niigata City to Aomori City. The highway follows along the Sea of Japan for most of its route, except the last leg from Noshiro to Aomori City.
Route Data
- Length: 475.7 km (295.6 mi)
- Origin: Niigata City
- Terminus: Aomori City
- Cities and Towns in Akita: Nikaho City, Yurihonjo City, Akita City, Katagami City, Ikawa Town, Gojome Town, Hachirogata Town, Mitane Town, Noshiro City, Kita Akita City, Odate City.
History
From Niigata City to Akita City, Route 7 follows the same route as the Ushu Kaido of the Edo Period. From Akita City to Aomori City, it follows the route of the Hokkoku Kaido, also from the Edo Period.
The Expressway Alternatives
Through much of Yurihonjo City, Route 7 runs parallel to portions of the Nihonkai-Tohoku Expressway. This expressway is eventually supposed to work its way through Nikaho City and parallel Route 7 there as well. The Akita Expressway also parallels Route 7 from northern Akita City to Futatsui. These expressways are much faster options to Route 7, which is usually a two-lane road frequented by K-trucks by day, and semi-trucks by night. Nevertheless, the expressways are toll roads which are extortionately expensive, so take your pick.
