Situated in the middle of Japan along the east-west stretch between Tokyo and the southwestern region, Nagoya is extremely well connected, and several big motorways converge on the city. The Tomei Expressway and Chuo Expressway both run from Tokyo westwards to Nagoya, while the Meishin Expressway takes you straight to Nagoya if you drive from Osaka or Kyoto.

The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) (tel: (03) 3436 2811 or 6833 9100; website: www.jaf.or.jp/e/index_e.htm), provides an English-language ‘Rules of the Road' booklet and JAF Road Service offers 24-hour breakdown assistance for both members and non-members. In the case of an accident, the police must be informed (tel: 110).

Emergency breakdown service:
JAF 8139

JR Bus Kanto (tel: (03) 3844 1950; website: www.jrbuskanto.co.jp/mn) operates regular coach services between Nagoya and Tokyo. JR Tokai (tel: (052) 563 0489; website: www.jrtbinm.co.jp) runs coach services to and from Kyoto, Osaka and several other cities. Meitetsu (tel: (052) 582 5151; website: www.meitetsu-bus.co.jp) buses run between Nagoya and Kanazawa and Takayama. The bus station in Nagoya is located adjacent to the main train station.