“Video: Car engulfed in intense flames and smoke on expressway; section between Urahoro IC and Honbetsu IC closed”
A car fire occurred near the Honbetsu Interchange on the Doto Expressway around 9:00 AM on July 10, 2025.
According to police, the burning vehicle appears to be a van or camper, and no injuries have been confirmed so far.
Due to the fire, both directions of the expressway between the Urahoro Interchange and Honbetsu Interchange are currently closed to traffic.
Honbetsu Interchange
The Honbetsu Interchange is a highway interchange located in Honbetsu, Hokkaido, Japan, serving as a key access point for the Tokachi Expressway. It facilitates transportation in the Tokachi region, connecting local agricultural areas to major cities. Opened in 1981, it supports regional economic activity by improving logistics and travel efficiency.
Doto Expressway
The Doto Expressway (道東自動車道) is a highway in Hokkaido, Japan, connecting the eastern regions of the island, including Kushiro and Abashiri. It was developed to improve transportation and economic connectivity in the remote Doto (Eastern Hokkaido) area, with construction progressing in phases since the late 20th century. The expressway provides vital access to scenic natural attractions, such as Kushiro Wetland and Shiretoko National Park, while supporting local industries and tourism.
Urahoro Interchange
The Urahoro Interchange is a highway interchange located in Urahoro, Hokkaido, Japan, serving as a key junction on the Dōtō Expressway. It connects the town to major regional routes, facilitating transportation in eastern Hokkaido. While it is primarily a modern infrastructure project, it plays an important role in supporting local travel and commerce in the area.
