Japan Opens New Ken-O Expressway Section to Boost Narita Airport Access

Japan has opened the Chiba Prefecture section of the Ken-O Expressway, connecting the Daiei Junction to the Matsuo Yokoziba Interchange [1, 3, 4].

This infrastructure expansion is critical for reducing traffic congestion in central urban areas and improving travel times to Narita Airport. By streamlining access, the government aims to enhance the airport's global competitiveness against other regional hubs [1, 4, 5].

The project, led by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and related local governments, is scheduled for full opening within the 2026 fiscal year [1, 4]. Some reports indicate that specific new interchanges opened as early as April 10, 2026 ^[2], while other sections were recently showcased to the press to mark the progress of the network ^[1].

The stretch from the Daiei Junction in Narita City to the Matsuo Yokoziba Interchange creates a more efficient loop around the Tokyo metropolitan area [1, 3, 4]. This prevents heavy transit traffic from needing to enter the dense city center, a move expected to lower emissions and travel delays for both commuters and international travelers.

Local officials said the project is a strategic investment in the region's logistics capabilities. The integration of the new interchanges allows for better distribution of traffic across Chiba Prefecture, reducing the burden on existing arterial roads [2, 4].

While some reporting differs on the exact phase of the rollout, the overarching goal remains the total completion of the line within the current fiscal year [1, 2]. The government continues to monitor traffic flow as the final segments integrate into the wider national highway system ^[1].