Beppu Bay on Route 10 highway Live Cam

History

Route 10, a vital highway running along the northeast coast of Kyushu in Japan, holds a rich history that reflects the evolution of transportation and infrastructure in the region. The road stretches through some of Japan’s most scenic coastal landscapes, connecting the city of Beppu with the broader regional network of highways that support both local travel and tourism. Route 10's development is closely tied to the broader modernization efforts that shaped the infrastructure of Japan, particularly in the post-World War II period, when rapid industrialization and urbanization prompted the expansion of the country’s transportation systems.

The history of Route 10 dates back to the Meiji era, when Japan was undergoing rapid industrial growth. Initially, the region around Beppu Bay was primarily served by smaller, less efficient roads that could not handle the increasing flow of goods and people. During the early 20th century, the need for a more efficient route to connect the port city of Beppu with surrounding areas, including Oita, was becoming apparent. Beppu had grown into a significant hub for both tourism, thanks to its famous hot springs, and trade, due to its strategic location along the coast.