best road trips japan

10 Best Road Trips in Japan

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you .

There are car rides that are so scenic that the trip to get to your end-point is nearly as good as the actual destination. Sometimes, driving a certain road is even a destination in itself. Japan doesn’t have a lack of amazing drives, being a mountainous country with plenty of unspoiled nature . Why not take a relaxing drive on one of these 10 best road trips in Japan? We are sure that once you get a taste, you will want to go again!

1. Izu Skyline in Shizuoka

2. mount aso in kyushu, 3. nikko national park in tochigi, 4. shikoku karst in ehime (kochi), 5. venus line in nagano, 6. akashi-kaikyo bridge, 7. bandai-azuma skyline in fukushima, 8. sapporo to roller coaster road and patchwork road in hokkaido, 9. tsunoshima ohashi bridge in yamaguchi, 10. hakone hill turnpike in kanagawa, traveling in japan, japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might enjoy.

If you fancy great views of Mt Fuji on your road trip, the Izu Skyline in Shizuoka may be just what you are looking for. This 40.6 km long toll road leads from hot spring city Atami in the north of the Izu Peninsula to the highlands of Amagi Kogen in the middle of the peninsula. Besides Mt Fuji, you will have nice views of the ocean on the eastern side, and the route is especially nice in spring with the blossoms and during the fall foliage season .

The best way to enjoy the fertile volcanic landscape surrounding Mt. Aso on the southern island Kyushu is to drive the Milk Road slowly while taking in the nice vistas. With grassy plains that stretch into the distance, there are multiple parking areas where you can stop to admire the views from up close. Make sure to go all the way up to the Daikanbo lookout, which is the highlight of the drive. Please note that the road may be closed due to icy conditions in the winter and that the crater of the volcano is only accessible when it is not too active.

Nikko is a very popular destination for local as well as international tourists. Only 1.5 hours away from the north of Tokyo , visitors flock there to see the impressive Toshogu shrine and temples surrounding the shrine area. The nature around Nikko is also very beautiful boasting waterfalls , forests, and a large lake , and the road that you can’t miss on your trip is called the Irohazaka Winding Road. Named after the Japanese alphabet that consists of 48 syllables, this curvy road has 48 hairpin turns and offers amazing views on the way up and down. At the top, don’t forget to visit the scenic Kegon Falls that you can go down to with an elevator.

Ehime prefecture on pilgrim’s island of Shikoku is especially famous for Dogo Onsen , one of the most picturesque onsen towns in Japan. Driving in Shikoku is also a pleasure, as it is the least populated island of the 4 main islands of Japan, the roads tend to be fairly quiet. To get there you can either depart from Kochi or Matsuyama, and the drive will take around 2 hours. The karst is a geological formation with wide grasslands interspersed with white limestone mounds and sinkholes. The area is surrounded by mountains and is located at an elevation of around 1400 meters. There are various hiking trails, and every season there is something to enjoy. If you stick around until nightfall, you can see starry skies undisturbed by any artificial light.

Nagano is one of Japan’s most mountainous regions, so it is no wonder that there are some scenic routes in this prefecture in the middle of Japan’s Honshu island. The Venus Line that runs between Chino and Ueda is a mountain road that leads you past highlands where there are various wildflowers blooming, two scenic lakes, and a plateau at a nearly 2 km altitude that offers sprawling views over the area including Mt Fuji. Many drivers like to stay the night in one of the onsen hotels in the area, which is a perfect way to relax at the end of the day. Please note that parts of the road are closed when there is snow, so it is best to drive the Venus Line between the late spring and early autumn .

The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge that spans between Kobe and Awaji Island near Shikoku is the second longest suspension bridge in the world at 4 km long. Besides driving over this bridge to enjoy the view, it is fun to stop at the Kobe side and walk the Maiko Marine Platform that offers you views from the inside and the ocean and the Bridge Information Center where you can learn more about suspension bridges. Goshiki Beach on Awaji Island is also worth a stop, especially around sunset time. If you continue on until Shikoku you can see the famous Naruto whirlpools , a rare natural phenomenon that is especially pronounced at this location.

If you are in the mood for a long road trip between late spring and late autumn, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima is a perfect destination. As the name Skyline already suggests, the road is located at a higher altitude of up to 1622 meters. You will sometimes drive through the clouds and will pass by various landscapes that include forests that are especially spectacular in autumn, as well as volcanic landscapes. The Fudosawa Bridge has amazing views, and if you want to hike near an active volcano you should make a stop at Mt. Issai Kyosan.

While you’re up in Fukushima, we highly recommend joining our Fukushima 2-Day Nuclear Power Plant Tour . This is a once in a lifetime tour that allows you to get some insight into the disaster, the current situation and progress that has been made, as well as exclusive access into the Nuclear Power Plant!

The northern island Hokkaido is famous for its wild natural beauty, and is therefore a much-loved destination for nature photographers. One of the best and easiest ways to get around the island is by car, and if you are looking for cool road trip destinations from Sapporo , Roller Coast Road and Patchwork Road are some of the best. Rollercoaster Road in the famous Furano and Biei area is a 2.5 km stretch of straight road that goes up and down like a rollercoaster. The wide views with the Tokachi-dake mountain range in the distance make it a thrilling ride! The Patchwork Road between National Routes 237 and 452 is also located in Biei and features country roads divided by colorful fields.

On the southwestern coast of Honshu in Yamaguchi prefecture you can find the Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge that leads to the small but scenic island Tsunoshima . The views of the cobalt-blue and emerald green ocean are not unlike those in Okinawa , and on the other side of the bridge you can enjoy several white sandy beaches. The bridge is 1.5 km long so you will have plenty of time to admire the beautiful views.

Only a little over one hour away from Tokyo is hot spring resort town Hakone that is also famous for its lake views with Mt. Fuji in the background. The Hakone Hill Turnpike is a favorite among drivers of sports cars because of the many sharp turns and the very nice views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay. You can even see marks on the road to show you what is the best line to take. The road ascends more than 1000 meters, and it will take you past forests, tunnels and bridges so there is plenty to take in while enjoying the drive.

There is so much to experience in Japan that it is sometimes hard to know where to start when you are planning your trip. Especially if you only have a few precious weeks here, you will want to make the most of every day. In that case, we can definitely recommend one of our fun and educational private tours! We offer tours in many cities in Japan including Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka , and Kobe .

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

▶ Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

Follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  TikTok  for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!

Happy traveling!

Stay informed of the best travel tips to Japan, the most exciting things to do and see, and the top experiences to have with the Japan Wonder Travel Newsletter. Once every two weeks we will introduce you to our latest content.

• Popular destinations
• Hidden places in Japan
• Tours and workshop
• Food and drink in Japan
• Itinerary in Japan
• Places to visit in Tokyo
• Food and drink in Tokyo
• Seasonal events
• Tours & workshops
• Tokyo This Week
• Day trip from Tokyo
• Itinerary in Tokyo
• Places to visit in Kyoto
• Food and drink in Kyoto
• Itinerary in Kyoto
• Day trip from Kyoto
• Travel tips
• Accommodation
• Cultural tips
• Transportation
• Tokyo Tours
• Kyoto Tours
• Kimono Rental
• Fukushima Tours
• Mount Fuji Tours
• Tour Package
• Media Kit（English/日本語)

The Ultimate Japanese Road Trips

Editorial Manager

Taking a road trip across Japan is a unique experience. The country has a rapid and efficient train network servicing all of the major cities, so head for those really tricky-to-reach destinations to justify your trip. Here’s our guide to getting behind the wheel and discovering the best Japan has to offer.

The rail system in Japan is so good, most visitors opt for public transport to get around, and we’re big fans of it, too. The fast, efficient, clean and safe option makes getting around a simple pleasure. But there are still some remote areas where four wheels are best – with stunning scenery and comfortable roads to enjoy en route.

Things to know before your road trip

Driving in Japan is a surprisingly straightforward affair, and hiring a car is just as easy, too. Foreigners looking to hire a vehicle will need to have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), but this is becoming a basic requirement in most countries now.

Typically all cars are graded by size and put into classes. The Kei (light) option is fine for city commuting and short jaunts, but you wouldn’t really want to tackle any of the expressways in these economic vehicles. The Standard Class will suit most road-trip requirements; if you have the time, you could even plan longer routes that take more than a month, as packing your luggage into the boot won’t be a problem. Green vehicles are increasingly popular here, too, while for the ultimate show-offs there are luxury and sports options. And if you’re travelling as a family or in a larger group, how about a minivan?

The most important thing is to know what to expect. Mountain trails are very different to coastal routes, and the right car can make the experience more enjoyable. Speed limits are relatively low in Japan, and as such many Japanese drivers tend to take their time, even on the expressways.

A couple of other things to note. If you’re planning to cover any great distance, you will almost inevitably use a toll road. So check out expressway passes and ETC cards that can save you money and time. Finally, most vehicles come with satnav as standard – but be sure it’s set to your language before starting off.

The best road trips in Japan

So you’ve sorted out your vehicle and are all set, but where to go? Here are some of our top picks.

Roller Coaster Road, Hokkaido

The breathtaking northernmost island in Japan is worth driving around for a few days. Sapporo, the capital, hosts an annual snow festival and has previously hosted the Winter Olympics. The best feature for drivers, however, is the undulating carriageway in Furano, which has earned the nickname of the Roller Coaster Road. A road trip and theme-park ride all in one go!

Kyoto to Tsunoshima

The starting point here is Kyoto , one of Japan’s most popular cultural destinations where you can enjoy a few relaxing nights before hitting the road. Tsunoshima, a remote island in the Japan Sea and part of the Yamaguchi prefecture, is the perfect destination for a short road trip from Kyoto, as the approach from the mainland is a spectacular bridge over the ocean.

Osaka to Chiba

You have to be a fan of urban driving for this one – and potential traffic jams – but if you time it right, you’ll get a fantastic driving experience though the tunnels of Tokyo. Hit the capital after dark, when the Bayshore Route of the Shuto Expressway becomes a futuristic playground. The route, known as the Wangan, takes you around Tokyo Bay through long tunnels and over bridges. The rest of the route isn’t as exciting, but it is a scenic way to cut through Tokyo to the underrated Chiba.

Mount Fuji to Mount Aso

Mount Fuji is so popular, it’s relatively easy to get to by rail or road, but the ultimate destination is Mount Aso, the country’s most active volcano, on Kyushu, Japan’s third largest island. The road here is picturesque, and there’s little to worry about in terms of volcanic activity, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. For the best views of Mount Fuji, take the Mikuni Pass, although it might be a slight detour at the start of your trip.

Hakone Hill Turnpike, Kanagawa

Let your inner boy racer takeover on this hill climb through the trees in Hakone. Just north of Tokyo, this area, known as a geopark, has plenty of hot springs to enjoy and calming ryokans to stay in. On your way you might end up driving through turnpikes. The roads here are usually quiet, so you won’t be expected to drift round corners as your tyres light up, but it’s still a thrill.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Introducing culture trip's rail trips.

Rediscover Japan with its Borders Fully Open

The Ultimate Guide to Getting around Japan

Top Tips for Travelling in Japan

Tomamu: a secret skiing spot in the heart of Hokkaido

How modern art revitalised the city of Towada, Japan

How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost?

The Best Solo Trips to Take in Your 30s

How to Experience Off-the-Beaten-Track Japan by Bullet Train

Film & TV

The best japanese movies to watch on the bullet train.

See & Do

The best places to visit with culture trip this autumn.

The Best Rail Trips to Book this Year

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1001798964
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

The Best Japan Road Trips

January 2, 2024 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

There’s never a bad time for a Japan road trip. The seven jaunts I’m about to describe (which, by the way, merely scratch the surface of Japan road trips) will definitely make you want to get behind the wheel.

I’d like to think I cover all the bases, too, from stunning beaches and verdant mountains, and from the sunny summer to the rosy haze of the cherry blossom spring. The most difficult part will be choosing just one Japan road trip route, or maybe two! ( Renting a car in Japan is easy though—don’t worry.)

The Truth About Driving in Japan

Before I get into the specifics of my favorite Japan road trips, I want to speak more generally about the topic of driving in Japan. Quite frankly, it can be miserable. Japan’s speed limits are frustratingly low—on many “highways,” the maximum speed is 70 km/h. Moreover, most Japanese don’t speed, law-abiding people that they are. It can easily take hours to travel a distance within Japan that would take minutes in another country!

There are also some intricacies to renting a car in Japan, namely the necessity for an international driving permit or IDP. I’ve explained all of them fully in this article , which I’d highly encourage before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle in Japan. It’s a cynical read, but that’s deliberate. Rather than discouraging you from driving in Japan outright, I simply want to make you think twice (or thrice or four times) before doing so.

My Favorite Road Trips in Japan

Hokkaido in summer.

A Hokkaido summer road trip is one of the most satisfying ways to explore Japan’s northernmost island. From the lavender fields of Naka-Furano to the “blue pond” of Biei , and from the shores of volcanic Lake Toya to the Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa , Hokkaido is at its most accessible in summer. (Want to plan a Japan road trip itinerary around Hokkaido in winter? Good luck! Many companies won’t rent to foreigners during this time due to dangerous road conditions.)

Tokyo to Shimoda

Another one of my favorite Japan road trips takes you from Tokyo to Shimoda , a historical town on the Izu Peninsula that’s also near some of Japan’s best beaches. Although the straight shot takes only a few hours, I recommend making the journey over a full day. By the time you reach Shimoda, having stopped en route in ancient Kamakura , the hot springs capital of Hakone and underrated Atami , you’ll be watching the sun set into the water—and you’ll be good and tired for a full day of fun in the sun.

Yoshino’s Sakura Kingdom

Is there a better idea for a Japan road trip than through the heart of cherry blossom country in the middle of sakura season ? I certainly don’t think so. If you happen to be in the Kansai region in early April, ride the Kintetsu Railway to Yamato-Yagi Station, where you can pick up your car and begin exploring Yoshino , where literally hundreds of thousands of cherry trees will be in full bloom. From here, your options are limitless. The best hanami viewpoints are at Hanayagura Observatory above Yoshinoyama town, and at Takami-no-Sato Sky Garden . Other worthwhile destinations include Tsubosaka Temple , and the ancient town of Asuka , which—if you can believe it—was ever-so-briefly the capital of Japan.

The Noto Peninsula

The Noto Peninsula features some of the most subtly epic scenery in all of Japan, from pastoral inland intersections that look straight out of Ghibli, to coastal vistas that look like classical Japanese paintings ( Ganmon and Hagoto Iwa ), with jagged rocks and twisted pine trees. Add to this a smattering of unique culture and cuisine—I hope you like beef!—and Noto-hantō is one of the most unique Japan road trips you can take. It’s ideal to start in either Kanazawa or Toyama ; it’s best to take two days, although you can do it in one.

Ishigaki: Adventures in Paradise

You wouldn’t know it based on the number of Japanese who flock to Hawaii each year, but Japan has some truly stunning beaches. This is especially evident on Ishigaki island, located at the center of the Yaeyama archipelago in Okinawa. To take a Japan road trip in Ishigaki, pick your car up before you leave the airport, driving north along the east coast and circumnavigating the island in a counter-clockwise fashion. Whether you relish in views of fluorescent Kabira Bay , or the panorama on offer from Hirakubozaki Lighthouse , this is a journey you won’t soon forget.

Yamaguchi Loop

A key advantage of Japan road trips, as opposed to traveling by train, is the freedom to go where you want—and to go on your own schedule. Yamaguchi prefecture provides fertile ground for testing this theory, as you drive first from Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Beppu Benten “blue pond,” and then onward to stunning Kanmon Bridge . From here, you’ll continue to iconic Motonosumi Inari Shrine , watching sunset over Yuya Terraced Rice Fields before ending in Shimonoseki .

To Mt. Fuji and Back

This might just be the most picturesque road trip Japan has to offer, although I have to begin with a caveat. Specifically, if the weather forecast is not perfect (or near-perfect), don’t bother. That’s because whether you’re at Churei-to pagoda in the Fuji Five Lakes region, amid the tea fields of Obuchi Sasaba, at the “Fuji Shinkansen ” tracks in Higashitaganoura or at Miho Beach in Shimizu city, this road trip is nothing without sweeping views of Mt. Fuji . Note that winter provides a high chance of clear skies, as can “shoulder” periods in early May or late October. As far as where you begin and end? While you can do this trip from and back to Tokyo, I personally love renting my car in Shizuoka city.

Kunisaki to Satsuma

This is one of my favorite Kyushu road trips. Rent your car in the hot springs city of Beppu , where you can drive northward to the Kunisaki Peninsula , namely the castle town of Kitusuki and Usa Shrine . Drive back through Beppu to Mt. Aso , where you’ll spend a night en route to Kumamoto . Leaving Kumamoto, stop at Takachicho Gorge and/or sacred Amakusa and then, after a night in Kagoshima , spend a day on the stunning Satsuma Peninsula .

Awesome Hiking Trips in Japan

The only thing better than taking a Japan road trip? Getting around on your own two feet! Here are my favorite hikes in Japan:

• Walking the historical Nakasendo Way
• Hiking elsewhere in the Japanese Alps
• Visiting Mt. Koya or trekking along the Kumano Kodo
• Traipsing amid the snow monsters of Mt. Zao (in winter)

FAQs About Japan Road Trips

Can tourists drive in japan.

Tourists can drive in Japan, so long as they have a valid IDP, or international driving permit . Beyond this, individual car rental companies may have their own policies, which you should research and verify before you turn up to collect your vehicle.

Is it easy to drive around Japan?

Whether within cities or on Japan road trips, it is easy to drive in Japan, at least ostensibly. It can also be frustrating, however, given extremely low speed limits and the unwillingness of most Japanese drivers to go even a few km/h faster than them. Your road trip in Japan will be memorable, but it won’t always be enjoyable in the moment!

Is it worth driving in Japan?

Driving in Japan is worthwhile primarily in rural regions, where the frequency and slow speed of trains makes the Japan Rail Pass an un-advantageous investment. Cost-wise, however, driving is an expensive proposition, especially for solo travelers. Of course if you want to take a road trip, Japan is an awesome country for it, cost notwithstanding.

The Bottom Line

I hope you feel inspired by these ideas for the best road trips in Japan. From easy weekend jaunts like the one from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji or the Izu peninsula, to more involved road trips on secondary islands like Kyushu and Hokkaido , Japan is even more enjoyable when you’re able to explore without adhering to a train schedule. This is not to say, of course, that driving in Japan doesn’t have its downsides—it does, namely the low speed limits on Japanese highways and the slow driving of Japanese motorists. Regardless of where in Japan you want to drive or when you decide you’re ready to go, I hope you’ll consider hiring me to plan your road trip for you .

Plan Your Japan Trip

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2018-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

Top 10 Unforgettable Road Trips to Experience in Japan

Welcome to Japan, the 'Land of the Rising Sun.' A place where the bustle of high-tech cities hums in perfect harmony with the tranquil hum of nature, where the old-world charm of historic temples sits comfortably alongside the ultra-modern skyline. This fascinating blend of tradition and modernity creates a tapestry of experiences that captivate every visitor. However, the essence of Japan stretches far beyond the metropolitan lights of Tokyo or Osaka; it lies in the scenic routes that navigate the length and breadth of the country. From the dramatic coastlines of the Noto Peninsula to the breathtaking autumn foliage of the Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima, each road trip in Japan unfolds like a beautifully illustrated storybook.

In this article, we're about to embark on a voyage across some of Japan's most memorable road trips. Each journey, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, is unique, revealing a different facet of this remarkable country. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie seeking your next adventure, a history buff eager to delve into the rich heritage, or a nature lover yearning for serene landscapes, these Japanese routes promise a travel experience beyond your wildest dreams. So, buckle up and get ready for a captivating exploration through the diverse terrains of Japan, each promising an unforgettable road trip that will leave you yearning for more.

1. Coast-to-Coast Hokkaido: Where Nature Unfolds its Majesty

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey across Hokkaido , Japan's northernmost island, where the beauty of nature takes center stage. Spanning over 900 kilometers (560 miles) from one end to the other, this epic coast-to-coast road trip is a testament to Hokkaido's remarkable landscapes and diverse ecosystems. From the snow-capped peaks of the Daisetsuzan mountain range to the crystal-clear lakes and primeval forests, each kilometer traversed reveals a new facet of Hokkaido's natural majesty.

Along the way, encounter breathtaking sights such as the untouched wilderness of the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting unparalleled biodiversity. Marvel at the vibrant lavender fields of Furano and the ethereal beauty of the Blue Pond in Biei. Discover the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches of the Shakotan Peninsula, and immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of Otaru's canal district. With an abundance of hot springs, picturesque towns, and unique wildlife encounters, this remarkable road trip through Hokkaido is a testament to the island's status as a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Visit Hakodate, a must-see in Hokkaido.

2. Seto Inland Sea Marvels: Shimanami Kaidō Expedition

Experience a road trip like no other as you traverse the Seto Inland Sea along the Shimanami Kaidō, a series of bridges that connect the islands between Honshu and Shikoku. This iconic route stretches approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) and offers breathtaking views of the picturesque islands, serene coastal landscapes, and azure waters of the Seto Inland Sea. As you drive or cycle along this scenic highway, you'll encounter a harmonious blend of modern engineering marvels and natural wonders. 

The Seto Inland Sea is renowned for its mild climate, making it an ideal destination year-round. Along the way, explore the charming islands of Ikuchijima, Innoshima, and Omishima, known for their historic temples, scenic viewpoints, and local art and cuisine. Admire the striking Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, one of the world's longest suspension bridges, and revel in the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. The Shimanami Kaidō not only offers a remarkable road trip experience but also showcases the unique cultural and natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea region.

See the majestic views while cycling.

3. Izu Peninsula to Hakone: Hot Springs and Coastal Splendor

Immerse yourself in a captivating journey that takes you from the captivating Izu Peninsula to the tranquil beauty of Hakone , where an enchanting blend of rejuvenating hot springs and breathtaking coastal landscapes await. Situated along Japan's eastern coast, the Izu Peninsula offers a scenic drive through picturesque seaside towns, pristine beaches, and awe-inspiring cliffs. Indulge in the region's renowned hot springs, such as Shimoda's soothing onsen baths and Atami's therapeutic waters. 

As you continue your road trip, Hakone unveils its natural splendor with stunning vistas of Mount Fuji reflected in the serene waters of Lake Ashi. Discover the mystical Owakudani valley, where volcanic activity creates a surreal landscape, and immerse yourself in the serenity of Hakone's hot spring resorts. Whether you seek relaxation, natural wonders, or cultural experiences, the journey from the Izu Peninsula to Hakone promises a harmonious blend of invigorating hot springs and captivating coastal beauty that will leave you spellbound.

Visit a hellish valley with sulphurous fumes.

4. The Noto Peninsula Route: Takaoka to Kanazawa Expedition

Discover the captivating beauty of the Noto Peninsula as you embark on a memorable road trip from Takaoka to Kanazawa . Spanning approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles), this scenic route takes you through a diverse landscape of rugged coastlines, serene beaches, and charming rural vistas. Along the way, marvel at the awe-inspiring Senmaida terraced rice fields, a UNESCO-designated Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. 

Image Credit: Howard Stanbury

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Wajima, renowned for its traditional lacquerware and vibrant morning market, offering a tantalizing array of fresh seafood. Experience the unique sensation of driving along the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, a rare sandy beach where the waves crash alongside your vehicle. Arriving in Kanazawa, be captivated by the city's historical treasures, including the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden and the atmospheric samurai district of Nagamachi. The Noto Peninsula Drive offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore this picturesque region, showcasing the harmony of nature and culture at every turn.

5. Coastal Wakayama: Temples, Ocean Breezes, and Seafood Feasts

Experience the captivating allure of coastal Wakayama as you journey through a landscape adorned with ancient temples, invigorating ocean breezes, and delectable seafood feasts. Situated along the picturesque Kii Peninsula, this road trip offers a harmonious blend of cultural exploration and natural splendor. Delight in the serenity of Koyasan , a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting over 100 temples, where you can embrace the tranquility of Buddhist traditions amidst lush forested paths. 

Traverse the coastline and be enthralled by the majestic cliffs and sweeping vistas of the Nachi-Katsuura area, home to Nachi Falls, one of Japan's tallest waterfalls. Savor the renowned seafood delicacies of Kumano-gawa, where an abundance of fresh catches awaits, including succulent tuna and mouth watering eel. Unwind on the sandy shores of Shirahama, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing swim. The coastal Wakayama road trip invites you to immerse yourself in the region's rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring landscapes, and culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds.

6. Discovering Central Western Japan: From Shimane to Kyōtango

Uncover the charms of Central Western Japan as you journey along the scenic route from Shimane to Kyōtango. This captivating road trip showcases a region abundant in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. Begin your adventure in Shimane, where you can witness the ancient allure of Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and holiest Shinto shrines. Discover tranquility at Matsue Castle, known as the "Black Castle," and enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Matsue Horikawa canals. 

Continue your expedition to the awe-inspiring San'in Kaigan Geopark, where rugged coastal cliffs and captivating rock formations create a breathtaking scene. Pause at Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan's largest sand dune system, to try sandboarding or embark on a memorable camel ride. Further south, immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Himeji, home to the iconic Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Izumo Taisha and Matsue Castle are included in this tour.

7. Kyūshū's Splendors: From Mt. Aso to Cape Sata

Kyūshū, the southwesternmost island of Japan, beckons adventurers to explore its wonders along the journey from Mt. Aso to Cape Sata. This remarkable road trip showcases the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures of Kyūshū. Begin your expedition at Mt. Aso, an active volcano boasting one of the world's largest calderas, where you can witness the raw power of nature and marvel at panoramic views. 

As you traverse the island, encounter the historic city of Kumamoto, home to the iconic Kumamoto Castle with its impressive stone walls. Journey further south to Kagoshima , where the majestic Sakurajima volcano looms over the cityscape, offering a dramatic backdrop. Finally, arrive at Cape Sata, the southernmost point of Kyūshū, where you can stand at the edge of Japan and gaze out into the vast Pacific Ocean. Along the way, savor Kyūshū's renowned cuisine, relax in rejuvenating hot springs, and immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of the region. 

Recommended for Mt. Aso visitors.

8. Tōhoku: Nature's Masterpiece Beckons

Escape into the captivating landscapes of Tōhoku, a region in the northern part of Honshu, Japan's main island, where nature's masterpieces await. Tōhoku is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, encompassing majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and picturesque coastal vistas. Explore the mesmerizing Oirase Gorge, where a gentle stream meanders through a verdant forest, creating a tranquil atmosphere. 

Image Credit: gunnsteinlye

Visit the iconic Matsushima Bay, known for its scenic islands adorned with pine trees, hailed as one of Japan's Three Views. Experience the mystical allure of the Hachimantai Plateau, where hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant autumn foliage converge. Journey to Towada-Hachimantai National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Lake Towada, a caldera lake enveloped by lush forests. Tōhoku's natural wonders are not limited to its terrestrial landscapes; the region's coastline is adorned with pristine beaches and rugged cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

9. Shikoku's Sacred Pilgrimage: 88 Temples Road Trip

Spanning the picturesque island of Shikoku, this sacred road trip offers a unique blend of cultural exploration, introspection, and physical endurance. Following in the footsteps of the revered Buddhist monk, Kūkai, also known as Kōbō Daishi, this pilgrimage takes you through the serene countryside, quaint villages, and tranquil forests. 

Each of the 88 temples symbolizes a stage of spiritual awakening, inviting you to experience the warmth of local communities, engage in ancient rituals, and find moments of contemplation amidst peaceful surroundings. From the revered Ryozenji Temple to the grandeur of Kōya-san, the final temple, this journey unveils the significance and historical charm of each sacred site. The Shikoku's 88 Temples Pilgrimage is a transformative quest that allows you to connect with Japanese spirituality and embrace the island's rich cultural heritage.

Explore what Shikoku can offer.

10. Tsushima: Where History and Nature Converge

Situated in the Korea Strait between Japan and Korea, Tsushima is a hidden gem renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in the island's intriguing history as you visit sites like the Tsushima History Museum and the ruins of Komoda Castle, offering glimpses into its samurai past. Marvel at the beauty of Tsushima's pristine beaches, dramatic coastlines, and lush mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. ‍

Delve into the island's vibrant wildlife, as Tsushima is home to unique species like the Tsushima leopard cat. Indulge in the local cuisine, known for its fresh seafood and delectable specialties like salted sea cucumber. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, embarking on nature hikes, or simply basking in the island's tranquil beauty, Tsushima is a destination that promises a memorable convergence of history and nature.

Essential Tips for a Memorable Road Trip in Japan

Road trips in Japan offer a fantastic way to explore the country's diverse landscapes, experience local culture, and create lasting memories. To ensure a memorable journey, consider these essential tips:

Plan your route: Research and plan your itinerary in advance, considering the attractions, scenic routes, and accommodations along the way. Take into account the driving distance and estimated travel time to avoid rushing through destinations.

Obtain an international driving permit: If you plan to drive in Japan, make sure to obtain an international driving permit before your trip. This permit, along with your valid driver's license, will allow you to legally drive in the country.

Familiarize yourself with traffic rules: Get acquainted with Japan's traffic rules and regulations to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Remember to drive on the left side of the road and familiarize yourself with road signs and signals‍

Consider seasonal factors: Japan's seasons offer unique experiences. Whether you want to witness cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, or enjoy winter sports, plan your road trip accordingly to make the most of each season's offerings.

Embrace local cuisine: One of the highlights of a road trip in Japan is the opportunity to savor the country's diverse culinary delights. Try regional specialties and local street food along your route to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

Pack essentials: Pack essentials such as a GPS or navigation device, a paper map as a backup, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Consider packing a portable Wi-Fi device for convenient internet access during your journey.

Road trips in Japan offer a remarkable way to uncover the country's beauty, culture, and hidden treasures. From the captivating coastlines of Hokkaido to the sacred temples of Shikoku, and the scenic routes of the Seto Inland Sea to the historical landmarks of Tsushima, Japan's road trip destinations are as diverse as they are enchanting. By following essential tips such as planning your route, embracing local cuisine , and respecting customs, you can ensure a memorable and immersive journey. 

Whether you choose to explore the rugged mountains, picturesque countryside, or vibrant cities, a road trip in Japan promises breathtaking scenery, unique experiences, and the freedom to create your own adventure. So, get behind the wheel, take the open road, and embark on an unforgettable exploration of Japan's rich landscapes , cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Your road trip in Japan is waiting to be written in the pages of your travel memoirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Japan good for a road trip?

A: Absolutely! Japan is a fantastic country for road trips. It offers diverse landscapes, picturesque coastal drives, scenic mountain routes, and charming rural areas waiting to be explored. With well-maintained roads, efficient infrastructure, and stunning attractions along the way, a road trip in Japan provides the freedom to discover hidden gems, immerse yourself in local culture, and create unforgettable memories.

Q: What is the longest road trip in Japan?

A: The longest road trip in Japan is the journey from Cape Soya in Hokkaido to Cape Sata in Kyūshū, covering a distance of approximately 3,500 kilometers (2,175 miles). This iconic route, known as the "Japan Longitudinal Road," allows travelers to traverse the length of Japan, experiencing diverse landscapes, cultural landmarks, and regional cuisine along the way.

Q: How long would it take to drive around Japan?

A: The duration of driving around Japan depends on several factors, such as the route taken, stops along the way, and the desired pace of travel. A complete circumnavigation of Japan, covering all major islands, can take several weeks to a month or more. However, it's important to plan your itinerary and consider the distances between destinations to estimate travel time accurately.

Q: Is it easy to travel around Japan alone?

A: Yes, traveling around Japan alone is generally easy and safe. The country boasts an efficient transportation system, including well-connected highways, extensive train networks, and comprehensive signage in English. Japan is known for its hospitality, and locals are often willing to assist visitors. However, having some knowledge of basic Japanese phrases and customs can enhance your experience and make communication smoother.

Q: What is the most famous road crossing in Japan?

A: The famous road crossing in Japan is the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo. It is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, known for its organized chaos, and the mesmerizing sight of crowds crossing from all directions when the lights change. This iconic intersection is a symbol of modern Tokyo and has been featured in numerous films and media, making it a popular attraction for visitors to experience the energy and vibrancy of the city.

Join the crowds in the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.

A. Coast-to-Coast Hokkaido: Where Nature Unfolds its Majesty

    2. Roadside Gems: Must-Visit Attractions Along the Way

B. The Seto Inland Sea along the Shimanami Kaidō: Bridges to Heavenly Beauty

    2. Island Delights: Unforgettable Stops on the Road Trip

C. Izu Peninsula to Hakone: Hot Springs and Coastal Splendor

    2. En Route to Majestic Views: Notable Sights and Experiences

D. The Noto Peninsula Drive: Takaoka to Kanazawa

    2. Culinary Adventures and Cultural Gems: Highlights of the Trip

E. Coastal Wakayama: Temples, Ocean Breezes, and Seafood Feasts

        2. Divine Encounters and Gastronomic Delights: Unmissable Experiences

F. Central Western Japan: Shimane to Kyōtango

    2. Timeless Marvels: Gems to Discover Along the Route

G. Kyūshū: Mt. Aso to Cape Sata

    2. Hidden Treasures and Unforgettable Encounters: Recommended Stops‍

H. Tōhoku: Nature's Masterpiece Beckons

    2. Time Travel and Cultural Immersion: Must-See Highlights

I. Shikoku’s 88 Temples Pilgrimage: A Sacred Road Trip

    2. Temple Wonders and Serene Landscapes: Essential Stops on the Route‍

J. Tsushima: Where History and Nature Converge

    2. Immersed in History: Unraveling the Island's Fascinating Tales

IV. Essential Tips for a Memorable Road Trip in Japan

II. Noto Peninsula (Noto Hantō)

III. Bandai-Azuma Skyline, Fukushima

IV. The Romantic Road (Romantik Rōdo)

V. Shimanami Kaido, Hiroshima

VI. Irohazaka Winding Road, Nikko

VII. Hokkaido

VIII. The Fruit Line in Yamanashi

1. Coast-to-Coast Hokkaido

2. The Seto Inland Sea along the Shimanami Kaidō

3. Izu Peninsula to Hakone

4. The Noto Peninsula Drive: Takaoka to Kanazawa

5. Coastal Wakayama

6. Central Western Japan: Shimane to Kyōtango

7. Kyūshū: Mt. Aso to Cape Sata

9. Shikoku’s 88 Temples Pilgrimage

10. Tsushima

Continue reading

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Japan Road Trips: 10 Picturesque Routes For Long Drives In 2024

15 Nov 2021

Japan is an incredible East Asian country, surrounded by Pacific Ocean. The dramatic landscapes of the country is a result of its geographical location. The volcanic mountains, unique forests, ocean, karst, grasslands, rocky terrains, everything together constitutes the amazing landscape of this ‘land of rising Sun’. And the best way to explore its natural vistas is by taking a Japan road trip through some of its most splectacular routes.

Top 10 Routes For Japan Road Trips

Here are the 10 most popular routes for Japan road trips that you must surely explore on your next vacation in the island nation.

1. Roller Coaster Road, Hokkaido

Image Source

Hokkaido has one of the most bizarre routes for Japan road trips . No doubt, this Northernmost island of the country has an abundance of charming natural views. But it is also home to one of the most strangest roads in the world. The ‘Roller Coaster Road’ located in the Furano city of Hokkaido totally lives up to its name. The 2.5-kilometer long road has several steep up and down slopes. Enjoy this

Must Read: 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan That Make It Look Right Out Of A Storybook

2. Metasequoia Tree Road, Shiga

Metasequoia Tree Road is a picturesque route in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan. The 2.4-kilometer long stretch of the road is lines with 500 Sequoia trees. The average height of each tree is about 35-meters. Driving through this shaded road is a blissful experience. The visual effect of the drive varies depending on the season you are taking this road trip. You would see lush green Sequoias if you are traveling during Spring or Summer seasons. And the Autumn or Winter makes the tree leaves turn spectacularly golden.

Suggested Read: Travelers Will Now Have To Pay A Sayonara Tax When Leaving Japan

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

3. Tsunoshima Bridge, Yamaguchi

Tsunoshima Bridge is a great example of architectural advancements. Take this one of the most thrilling Japan road trips and drive over the ocean. This bridge is constructed to link the mainland and a mini remote island in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Driving on this 1,780-meter long bridge is a rare experience for sure. But the excitement doesn’t end there. The gorgeous island on the other side awaits you with its white sand beaches and azure water for an exotic tour.

4. Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, Ishikawa

Japan is home to some of the most surprising experiences. And now that we exploring the best Japan road trips , Chirihama Nagisa Driveway will add some amazement to the list. This is your rarest chance to drive along a seashore. Chirihama Nagisa Driveway is world’s one of the only 3 public driveways on the beach. And this is the only one in Japan. This is an 8-kilometer long road that runs on the beach.

Suggested Read: Japan Beats Singapore As Having The World’s Most Powerful Passport!

5. Venus Line, Nagano

Venus Line offers opportunities for one of the most romantic Japan road trips. The drive passes through the vast and green highlands of Nagano Prefecture. Connecting Chino to the Utsukushi Ga Hara, this 70-kilometer long road will make you high on superb views of nature and unlimited fresh air. Drive along the Venus Line with your partner or a bunch of your favourite friends.

Suggested Read: This Library Hostel In Japan Is The Perfect Cocoon That Every Bookworm Dreams Of!

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.

Ramya Narrates The Story Of 6 Girls On An Extraordinary Trip To Thailand

Bangkok. Phi Phi. Krabi. Why should guys have all the fun?

Sandeep Illustrates On The Best Activities For A Family Trip To Mauritius

Water sports. Cocktail parties. And unlimited fun at Casela.

Nisarg Can't Stop Praising His Honeymoon Trip To Maldives

There was snorkeling, sightseeing, luxury, comfort, & much more!

Sabyacsachi's Romantic Trip Proves Europe To Be The Mother Of All Vacations

For Art, Culture, Luxury, & more...

Srishti Talks Of Her Amazing Trip To Singapore With Her Mother & Niece

A fun-filled destination for ages indeed!

67-Year Old Sridhar Tells How He Beat The Odds & Took A Solo Trip To Dubai

Desert safari. Burj Khalifa. Welcoming locals. Tell me more!

Not Adventure Lovers? Saurabh's Family Trip Proves Hong Kong To Still Be Full Of Fun

Your kids will love Disney Land & Ocean Park!

Ravi's Tale Of A Sri Lanka Family Tour Is All You Need To Know About Ramayana Tour

For the love of Ramayana & Travel!

6. Izu Skyline, Shizuoka

Izu Skyline promises one of the most thrilling Japan road trips . This 40.6 km long toll road in Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture does give you the best skyline views of the surroundings. Running from South to North of the region, a drive through it will stun you with the spellbinding views of the iconic Mount Fuji, along with other mountains, the highlands and Sagami Bay coast line.

Suggested Read: Cherry Blossoms Are In Full Bloom & So Is The All New Spring Flower Cruise In Japan

7. Patchwork Road, Biei

Biei is one of the most scenic locations in Japan. Situated in the heart of Hokkaido, this tiny town is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Your driving route will pass through lush green crop fields and hills. This place has attracted several commercial ad agencies and is a popular shooting location in Japan. If you are planning to take a drive through the Patchwork Road in Biei, the best time is summer. This is the time when you would see the real “patchwork” on the fields, done with a variety of crops.

8. Aso, Kumamoto

This is one of the most unbelievably stunning Japan road trips . Aso is a city in Kumamoto Prefecture, located on Kyushu Island. Driving in this region takes you through the mind-blowing landscapes, including the lush greenery and the volcanic mountains. Kyushu is the third largest island in Japan. It home to the active Mount Nakadake Volcano and the largest caldera in the world. During the drive, you can stop to take a dip in the natural hot springs and visit the Nakadake Crater during the lower risk times.

Suggested Read: Getting A Japan Visa Will Now Be Easier Than Buying A Movie Ticket!

9. Shikoku Karst, Ehime & Kochi

Located in the Shikoku region of Japan, Shikoku Karst is the biggest karst in the country. ‘Karst’ refers to a kind of topography which has been formed as a result of dissolving of soluble rocks. It is generally limestone, gypsum or dolomite rock. This happens over a period of many years and leads to the creation of dramatic rock formations. The Shikoku Karst is spread across the Ehime and Kochi Prefectures of Indonesia. The driving road along this region is located at an altitude ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 meters. Through this breathtaking Japan road trip, you will witness some exclusive views of mountains ranges and grasslands.

Suggested Read: Camping In Japan: 5 Super Gorgeous Spots For All Future Campers!

10. Bandai-Azuma Skyline, Fukushima

The average altitude of Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima is 1,350 meters above the sea level. The perks of driving at this height are the mind-blowing scenic views of the surrounding. And in this case, it not just mountains, but the famous volcanic mountain, Azuma. Mount Azuma-Kofuji is an active volcano in Fukushima Prefecture and Yamagata Prefecture of Japan. The term, ‘Kofuji’ refers to its shape that resembles Mount Fuji. The best time to take this one of the most fascinating Japan road trips is during Autumn to witness the charming Bandai-Azuma skyline.

Further Read: Spas In Japan: 5 Handpicked Places Which Will Be Ideal For A Relaxing Spa-cation!

Has taking a road trip with your partner, friends or family always been on your wishlist? The above-listed routes ensure absoluetly unique and splendid experiences. So, plan a trip to Japan and explore this wonderful country with your loved ones. Also, use this chance to take all these Japan road trips.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Japan Road Trips

Can tourists drive in Japan?

Yes, tourists can drive in Japan if they have the proper legal documents and permits for the same. Otherwise, driving in Japan can be quite complicated and expensive. Tourists without a legal license can face legal actions like fines, get arrested, and even deported. Tourists need an International Driving Permit to drive in Japan. Americans with only a U.S. driver’s license cannot drive in Japan.

Is it safe to rent a car in Japan?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to rent a car and drive around in Japan with the proper permits for driving with an international license. To facilitate one-way road trips, rental companies in Japan also allow you to return the vehicle at a different branch. One would, however, not require to rent a car, especially in Tokyo, because the city is well connected through trains & buses. These means of transportation are considered to be safe, quick, and cheap.

Is driving in Japan hard?

No, driving in Japan is quite simple. The driver’s seat and the steering wheel are on the right side and the cars drive on the left side of the road. Traffic rules and road signs follow international standards.

How many days should I spend in Japan?

You need about 5 to 6 days to fully explore Japan. Out of these, it is advised to spend 2 to 3 days in Tokyo and the rest of the days in other destinations.

How expensive is a trip to Japan?

It would cost you around $100 USD per day per person for hotel accommodation, food, purchasing a rail pass, and visiting a few local attractions. You can, however, save money by staying like a local in Japan.

What is the cheapest month to travel to Japan?

Summer months are the most popular for visiting Japan. However, the cheapest months are the winter months – from mid-January until March when the weather is cold & dry.

When should you not visit Japan?

You should not visit Japan from June to August as that is the time of monsoon season and you may encounter torrential rains.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

People Also Read:

Spain Road Trips American Road Trips Switzerland Road Trips

Recent Posts

10 Captivating Reasons To Visit Japan: Unveiling The Land Of Endless Wonders

A Comprehensive Guide To Bangalore To Gokarna Road Trip In 2023

Chennai To Pondicherry Road Trip: All You Need To Know For Your Next Vacay

Manali To Leh Road Trip: A Comprehensive Guide For Your Next Adventure

Bangalore to Goa Road Trip: A Comprehensive Guide For Your Next Getaway

14 Exciting Things To Do In Summer In Japan On Your Holiday In 2023!

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Japan »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

Japan road trip itinerary from Tokyo to Osaka

From the hypnotising neon lights of Tokyo, to the traditional temples and shrines of Kyoto, Japan is a country where history seamlessly coexists with modernity, meaning there's no end of things to discover during a Japan road trip.

Our Japan road trip itinerary celebrates the best of the famous Golden Route, travelling west from Tokyo past Mount Fuji to Hakone and Shizuoka, before continuing on to Kyoto and Osaka.

Although the amazing bullet trains and metro systems mean it may not be conventional to travel Japan by car, the roads are relatively easy to navigate and you'll be able to head off the beaten path a little more, making driving in Japan totally worth it.

From sacred shrines and traditional tea ceremonies, to robot restaurants and futuristic skyscrapers, read on for our definitive Japan road trip guide.

Day 1: Tokyo - visit the Meiji Shrine, relax in Kiyosumi Garden & have a traditional kaiseki meal

After flying into Tokyo you'll probably be needing some time to shake off the jet lag before diving into the high-energy, neon-lit side of the city, so spend the rest of day 1 on a more relaxed tour of some more traditional Japanese sights.

You don't need to pick up your hire car until you're ready to leave Tokyo on day 3, so check into your hotel, freshen up after your flight and head out for you first taste of Japan.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Hotels in Tokyo can be really expensive or somewhat basic so finding the right balance is key.

The Conrad Tokyo hotel is a fantastic choice and is really well located for your stay.

The rooms are perfectly decorated with modern lighting and luxury fittings. The location is perfect for getting about the city with the monorail and Shimbashi and Ginza metro stations a short walk away.

It is half the price of other similar quality hotels in central Tokyo and you really get amazing value for your money.

Explore the Meiji Shrine and surrounding Yoyogi Park

Dedicated to the spirits of the Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan, and the Empress Shoken in 1920, this beautiful Shinto shrine is one of the most popular in Japan and is a great way to kick off your Tokyo itinerary.

The torii gate, which marks the entrance to the shrine and a transition from the mundane to the sacred, transports you from the busy city into an oasis of natural beauty and calm - exactly what you'll be after having just stepped off the plane.

The main complex of the shrine is a pleasant ten-minute stroll from the southern entrance through a tranquil forest of around 100,000 trees donated from across the country, and is made up of beautiful Japanese architecture to explore.

Have a look around the shrine and take part in some traditional Shinto activities including making offerings in the main hall and writing your wish on a wooden ema to leave in the shrine to be granted.

If you're lucky, you might even catch a traditional Shinto wedding taking place here, making your visit even more magical.

The shrine complex also contains the Meiji Jingu Treasure House where belongings of the Emperor and Empress are on display, as well as the beautiful Inner Garden, thought to be an area of strong spirituality that's particularly scenic in June when the irises are in bloom.

Entry to the shrine is free, however there is a small fee of 500 JPY (Japanese yen) to visit the Inner Garden.

Once you're done at the shrine have a stroll through surrounding Yoyogi Park and head back to the metro to move on to your next stop.

Take the metro to Kiyosumi Garden

Continue with the nature theme and head to Kiyosumi Garden for the rest of the afternoon.

By the time you get there you'll probably be after a quick bite to eat, so grab some food at the tea-house style restaurant Ryotei before you look around (you'll need to reserve a table in advance).

Once you've eaten, spend some time exploring the grounds. This landscaped garden is very carefully designed, with a glittering pond, lush trees, quaint bridges, and the traditional tea house to enjoy as you do the circular walk around the grounds.

Although it's all stunning, one thing to pay particular attention to is the large stones dotted around the garden. Landscape stones are considered extremely valuable in Japan, and here you'll find examples sourced from all over the country.

Be sure to hop along the stepping stone paths and spot the fish and turtles in the water as you go around, and stop regularly to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the garden as the afternoon draws to a close.

Entry to the garden costs 150 JPY.

Go for a traditional kaiseki meal at Ao to celebrate the start of your trip

Head back to your hotel and put your feet up for a while, then make your way to Ao for a kaiseki meal.

In keeping with your relaxed, authentic day, this type of meal is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner made up of beautifully presented dishes that celebrate the taste, texture, and colours of seasonal ingredients.

There are loads of different places where you can enjoy a kaiseki meal in Tokyo, however we'd recommend you book a table at Ao, an unassuming restaurant close to Shibuya which offers a six course meal for 3,400 JPY (a steal when it comes to kaiseki).

They base their dishes on fresh, seasonal Japanese ingredients, but draw on techniques from lots of other cuisines to create unique and delicious flavour combinations.

The dishes on offer change monthly so it's impossible for us to predict what you'll eat during your visit, but we're pretty confident you won't be disappointed.

Enjoy your food, toast the start of your trip with a glass of sake, then head back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Day 2: Tokyo - have sushi for breakfast, visit the teamLab Borderless Museum, go shopping, & walk the world's busiest street crossing

Day 2 is all about experiencing the side of Tokyo you've seen in the pictures, AKA the crazy museums, bustling streets, neon lights, and high-end shopping; you're in for a busy day!

Kick off day 2 with a sushi breakfast at Toyosu Fish Market

Yep, sushi for breakfast is most definitely a thing in Japan, especially at the fresh fish markets where the catch of the day arrives in the early hours of the morning, meaning it's expertly prepped and sliced just in time for your morning meal.

One of the best places to get your sushi fix is at Toyosu Fish Market (the new location of former Tsukiji Fish Market), where popular Sushi Dai and Daiwa Sushi serve up the freshest nigiri and sashimi from 5.30am.

Unfortunately if you want to beat the queues you have to get there when it opens at the absolute latest, but don't worry, it'll mean you arrive in time to witness the famous tuna auction, and give you time to wander round the market without eating into the rest of today's itinerary.

If you can't face getting up that early there are plenty of other food options that don't tend to have such long waiting times, including soba noodle restaurants and coffee shops.

Head to nearby teamLab Borderless Museum

By the time you've queued for your breakfast, watched the auction, and had a potter around the market it'll probably be the ideal time to head to the teamLab Borderless Museum (officially the Mori Building Digital Art Museum Epson teamLab Borderless) for its 10am opening.

This quirky digital art museum pretty much sums up the modern side of Tokyo, and is a multi-sensory experience made up of breathtaking light shows that adapt and change as you walk around; you won't see the same thing on a loop here.

From hundreds of colourful flowers projected on the walls and ceilings, to rooms full of LED lights made to seem never-ending with mirrors and polished floors, this art stimulates all the senses and offers a truly unforgettable experience.

You can even stop for a cup of green tea containing digital flowers that bloom right in front of your eyes - magical.

Tickets cost 3,200 JPY and should be bought online in advance.

Grab a quick lunch then do some shopping

A trip to Tokyo wouldn't be complete without a shopping spree, so grab a quick bite to eat after you leave the museum (street food is always a good idea), and set off in search of some retail therapy.

The shopping options in Tokyo are pretty diverse, ranging from high-end malls, to vintage boutiques, to traditional markets, so where you choose to go should definitely depend on how you're feeling on the day.

We've got a few varied suggestions for you to choose from which cover the best of Tokyo's shopping:

For high end (window) shopping head to the modern Ginza district. Dotted with upmarket boutiques and department stores, this is the place to go if you're after some designer souvenirs to take home. You'll also find some traditional craft shops nestled amongst the glamour, so you shouldn't feel too far removed from authentic Japanese culture as you browse.

For vintage shops and quirky boutiques Shimo-Kitazawa is the place to go. Located a little outside of the commercial centre, expect to find the coolest record stores, one-of-a-kind vintage clothes shops, and casual eateries all buzzing with trendy art students and bohemian locals. This is a great place to discover another of Tokyo's many personalities.

If you'd rather shop for traditional Japanese trinkets then Nakamise Shopping Street is the best option. The street is one of the oldest shopping areas in the whole of Japan, and is located on the approach to the Sensoji Temple, so the setting is just as authentic as the shops themselves. From delicate folding fans to traditional snacks, the Nakamise Shopping Street celebrates the best of Tokyo's historic shopping scene.

Relax in one of Tokyo's quirky cafes

In our opinion shopping always has to be followed by coffee, and Tokyo isn't short of cafes to choose from.

In the last decade the city has become one of the world's leading hubs for coffee lovers, with countless trendy coffee roasters and specialist shops popping up in every neighbourhood.

We could easily give you a list of 20 amazing spots to hit up, but we've whittled it down to three suggestions to make your choice a little easier.

The Roastery by Nozy Coffee - The coffee roaster takes centre stage at this trendy cafe (literally - it sits in the middle of the room), so you can expect fresh beans roasted to perfection here. With two types of beans to choose from everyday, the friendly English-speaking staff are on hand to help you decide which to go for, and they also sell amazing coffee flavoured soft-serve ice cream if you fancy a sweet treat on the side.

Roar Coffee House - For something a little quirky Roar Coffee House is a great spot. They specialise in multi-coloured coffees, serving up mini works of art to each customer. The coffee connoisseurs among you are probably cringing at the thought of Instagram-worthy rainbow lattes, but they're careful to use the best coffee and roast it in-house, so the flavours are just as good as the visuals.

Tokyo Saryo - Our third option isn't actually a coffee shop but a green tea house - after all, this nutritious infusion is Japan's original brew. Tokyo Saryo offers single-origin green tea hand dripped through their own tea drippers to bring out the best flavour from the leaves. The cafe is clean and minimalist, making it a really calming retreat from the busy shopping districts. Opt for the tasting selection (1300 JPY), choose one tea to try (800 JPY), or grab an iced tea to take away (450 JPY).

If three options isn't enough, our guide to the best neighbourhood cafes in Tokyo will give you some more inspiration and information on what to expect from your Japanese brew.

Have a leisurely coffee then head back to your hotel to relax and freshen up before evening falls.

Walk the world's busiest street crossing in Shibuya and have dinner at the Robot Restaurant

Once the neon lights have switched on, head out to Shibuya before dinner to walk across the world's busiest street crossing just outside of Shibuya metro station - this is the Tokyo you've seen in the pictures.

During rush hour, as many as 2,500 people can cross each time the signal changes, bringing the road to life.

Ordinarily, stepping into the thick of any city's rush hour would be the last thing we'd suggest, but this crossing is made iconic by the crowds, so it's definitely worth braving the bustle this time.

Once you've experienced the crossing make your way to the famous Robot Restaurant to top off your Tokyo itinerary.

Although the food here isn't the best you'll find in Tokyo, the accompanying show, which we can only describe as somewhere between a cabaret and a popular culture explosion, is so wacky and wonderful we doubt you'll even notice.

Expect burlesque dancers fighting reptiles, dancing bunnies playing glittery drums, out of control sharks raging across the stage, and totally in control ninjas battling invaders. And robots, duh.

Put simply: it's complete and utter carefully choreographed chaos.

The whole experience is a little pricey at 8,000 JPY, but it's an unmistakable rite of passage that makes it worth every penny.

Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone via Mount Fuji - take a scenic drive around Lake Kawaguchi to see Mount Fuji on your way to Hakone

Have a lie in on day 2 (you might need it after the Robot Restaurant), then pick up your hire car ready to set off in the late morning - today's focus is a scenic drive to get the best views of epic Mount Fuji.

Before we delve in, a quick note on driving in Japan. On the route that this itinerary follows driving should be fairly hassle free, with wide, well-paved roads connecting the country's major cities.

You'll encounter toll roads on some of the expressways and more scenic routes (such as the Chuo Expressway you'll take today), and in and around the cities can get quite congested, but other than that drivers are generally very safe and considerate, making driving in Japan a breeze.

Drive west out of Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchi

Some of the best views of Mount Fuji can be found at Lake Kawaguchi, so rather than heading south straight to Hakone, take a scenic detour west towards the lake.

It should take you around an hour and a half to get there, cruising along Lake Sagami and through stunning verdant mountains and lakes along the way.

You'll probably follow the Chuo Expressway most of the way (don't worry it's still really scenic), but there's also a smaller, toll-free road that runs parallel along the lake if you'd prefer to come off the main road.

Once you've reached Lake Kawaguchi, you'll want to drive to the north side of the lake, park the car (there are various car parks including one near Nagasaki Park), then walk down to the water to admire the view.

You won't be disappointed - on a clear day you'll get a picture-perfect view of the snow-capped mountain reflected on the water, so make sure you have your camera at the ready, and spend some time taking it all in.

Have a late lunch at Lake Bake Cafe

Once you've spent enough time gazing at the view head to Lake Bake Cafe a little further west from the car park for a late lunch.

The walls of this cosy cafe are lined with baskets of delicious baked goods, ranging from pizza-esque flatbreads to crusty loaves and decadent cakes that you can enjoy on their terrace overlooking the lake and Mount Fuji.

Owing to the fact that you're a little off the beaten path the menu is all in Japanese, so this lunch will be more of a point-at-something-that-looks-tasty affair - a great way to discover something new!

Drive on to Hakone

Continue west and do a full circuit of the lake before heading south to Hakone.

The road hugs the water most of the way, making it a really lovely stretch to drive, particularly on the south side where you'll have a beautiful view of the green mountains you've just driven through.

From there drive the remaining 35 miles to get to Hakone, enjoying even more mountain roads and scenic views as you go.

Eat soba noodles at Nakamura

By the time you arrive in Hakone you probably won't have much of the day left, so just check into your hotel, put your feet up for a few minutes then go for another classic Japanese dinner.

Tonight we're sending you to Soba Nakamura, a simple restaurant specialising in traditional Japanese soba noodles. Made of buckwheat flour, these noodles are both nutritious and delicious and come in a variety of different dishes.

They can be enjoyed either hot in a soup or cold with a dipping sauce, and we'd recommend you choose the latter as it's probably unlike any dish you've had before (and you'll probably eat a lot of ramen throughout the trip that's quite similar).

You'll essentially be served a plate of cold noodles with a soy-based dipping sauce and some wasabi and spring onions on the side. The idea is that you mix the onions and wasabi into the sauce then dunk mouthfuls of the noodles into it as you eat.

It's simple yet very delicious, and it's even better if you opt for the side of crispy tempura prawns and vegetables to go with it.

Wash the noodles down with some more sake, then head back to your hotel and call it a night - you'll be up early on day 4 to squeeze in as much as possible before leaving for Shizuoka.

Day 4: Hakone to Shizuoka - go sightseeing in Hakone & drive to Shizuoka

The mountain town of Hakone in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known for its bubbling hot springs and stunning natural beauty, meaning there's loads of great activities to get stuck into, so wake up early and make the most of your day here.

Start the day with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway

A great way to get a feel for Hakone is to hop on the Ropeway, a cable car which offers amazing views of the steaming hot springs, lush hills, and dramatic Mount Fuji.

The line runs from Sounzan Station in the east to Togendai Station in the west, with stops at Owakudani and Ubako in between.

If you wanted to see as much as possible, you could ride the whole line which pretty much covers the length of Hakone.

However, given the fact that you only have a day to see everything, we'd suggest you simply use the Ropeway as a way to get to your first stop, Owakudani.

We'd advise you check out of your hotel and take the car with you so that you can quickly get between sights later on, so parking the car at Togendai Station and getting on the Ropeway from there is a good option.

A return ticket to Owakudani from here costs 2000 JPY and will take around 20 minutes, and the first gondola departs at 9am.

Explore the hot springs and eat a black boiled egg

Before you've even stepped off the gondola it'll be clear you've reached the geothermal valley of Owakudani.

With white smoke rising from the earth and the unmistakable smell of sulphur drifting across the hills, Owakudani is one of the more atmospheric stop offs on your Japan road trip, even if it does have the age-old nickname 'Valley of Hell'.

Aside from having a wander and snapping a few pictures of the views, one thing you need to do whilst you're in Owakudani is eat a black egg (kuro-tamago).

We're aware this sounds as hellish as the valley's nickname, however they're actually just regular hens' eggs boiled in the natural water of the hot springs that are turned black by the sulphur and iron in the water.

It's just the shell that turns black and the egg inside tastes pretty much the same as a regular boiled egg, except these are thought to add seven years to your life, so probably worth devouring one ASAP.

We'd recommend taking the short 15 minute hike from the station to the egg boiling site where you can watch them being made before trying one for yourself, but it's also possible to buy them from the souvenir shops near the station if you don't fancy the walk.

If standing on top of a mountain eating a black boiled egg all sounds a bit odd, you could always opt for a bean jam bun or cookie fashioned to look like one of the famed eggs - a tasty compromise that's not, well, a black boiled egg…

Drive to Hakone Shrine

Once you're done in Owakudani, take the Ropeway back to Togendai Station and drive five minutes down the road to Hakone Shrine.

Tucked away in a dense forest, you'll only be able to tell the shrine is there by its huge torii gates, two of which are located on the approach from the road on the north side of the complex, and the iconic gate on the edge of the lake in the south.

You'll probably end up approaching from the south because there's lots of parking available, so have a wander down to the water to see the gate before heading up the steps to the main shrine buildings.

The beauty of this shrine is that it's glorious in all weather; whether the sun is filtering through the trees, drops of rain are running off the curved roof, or a blanket of cool mist has settled across the site, the shrine is always a lovely, calming place to spend some time.

Have a late lunch then make your way to the Hakone Open-Air Museum

After you've explored the shrine and you feel suitably serene, go back to the car and drive to Hakone Open-Air Museum.

You'll definitely need a bite to eat before you get stuck into the museum, so leave your car in the car park and go to one of the nearby restaurants for a quick refuel.

The Gyoza Center, which is just around the corner, is a great spot for a quick plate of gyoza - delicate Japanese dumplings filled with fish, meat or vegetables - that should keep you going until dinner later.

After lunch spend the rest of the afternoon at the museum. Japan's first open-air museum, this attraction contains artwork by world-renowned artists, including Picasso and Henry Moore, and was opened in 1969 to try and boost interest in art.

The museum covers around 70,000 square metres against the backdrop of the mountains, allowing visitors to see artwork in a new light away from the confines of a gallery.

You'll want to drive to Shizuoka before it gets dark, so see as much as you can of the museum before you have to set off.

A few particular highlights to look out for include the Symphonic Sculpture made of beautiful stained glass which you can climb inside, the La Pleureuse sculpture of a woman's head, and the extensive Picasso Exhibition Hall.

There's also lots of fun interactive exhibits and an on-site foot spa that add to the uniqueness of this unforgettable museum.

Admission costs 1600 JPY.

Drive to Shizuoka and relax for the evening

After browsing the art, head back to the car and drive on to Shizuoka 60 miles away.

You've had a pretty busy day so just check into your hotel, find somewhere to eat dinner and spend the rest of the evening putting your feet up.

Day 5: Shizuoka to Kyoto - go sightseeing in Shizuoka city, attend a tea ceremony at Gyokuro No Sato Hyogetsu-tei, & drive to Kyoto

Wake up early and visit sunpu castle.

You'll be straight back to big city life once you've arrived in Shizuoka, and you should have just enough time for a whistle-stop tour of the best sights before setting off for Kyoto in the afternoon.

Start your day early with a trip to Sunpu Castle. This important historical sight is thought to have been the centre of the Shizuoka and the point from which the rest of the city expanded, as well as being the retirement home for the famous shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.

The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history, including a final dismantling of the fortification in the 1860s when the Tokugawa family was stripped of its power.

This means that the parts of the castle you can visit today are restored replicas of the original, carefully built according to original construction plans so they're as close to the real deal as possible.

The East Gate is the main building you can explore, and it contains some really interesting exhibits about the castle's history. The grounds are also worth a visit, with the beautiful Sunpu Park and moat adding to the surroundings.

Arguably the star of the show is, however, the intricate Momijiyama Japanese Garden in the park's northeastern corner.

This carefully landscaped space contains a pond, a mound representing Mount Fuji, azaleas representing tea leaves, and pebbles to represent nearby Miho Beach.

Entry to the castle and garden costs 360 JPY.

Eat sakura shrimp for lunch

Two of Shizuoka's most famous products are tea leaves and Sakura shrimp, so once you've finished exploring the castle and garden dedicate the rest of your time here to sampling these delicacies.

First up, shrimp for lunch.

Sakura shrimp are a type of small pink shrimp which are only caught in Suruga Bay bordering the city and in Taiwan, thanks to the fresh water running off the surrounding mountains and creating the perfect water conditions for them to thrive.

As they're plucked fresh from the sea so close to the city, this is the only place where they are fresh enough to try raw, making for a pretty unique lunch experience.

If raw shrimp doesn't take your fancy, it's also traditional to eat them fried, boiled, or dried in the sun like a pink cherry blossom, so you'll have plenty of options.

For the best shrimp we'd recommend hopping in the car or catching the train to Yui, a town just north of the city known as 'The City of Sakura Shrimp', to go to Hama no Kakiageya where you'll be able to try these pink morsels at their best.

Note : for conservation reasons the shrimp are only harvested twice a year, between March - June and October - December, so to eat them fresh try to travel in these months.

Drive to Kyoto, stopping off at Gyokuro No Sato Hyogetsu-tei for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony

The best way to explore Shizuoka's tea heritage is to drive to Gyokuro No Sato Hyogetsu-tei, a tea house about half an hour outside of the city on the way to Kyoto, to experience a traditional tea ceremony known as sadou or chadou .

Seeing as Shizuoka prefecture alone contains around 40% of Japan's tea plantations, it's the perfect place to catch your first ceremony of the trip and learn more about treasured matcha green tea.

As with most tea houses in Japan, Hyogetsu-tei is situated in a stunning, tranquil setting in a leafy valley within a picturesque garden. Follow the stepping stone path to the entrance to the tea house, and look out over the pond as you sip your tea.

The tea house itself is really beautiful and traditional, with tatami flooring (made of woven straw), shoji (paper sliding doors) covering the windows, and hosts wearing classic kimonos as they serve.

The tea, which is made from powdered matcha green tea using authentic techniques, is served up with wagashi , a traditional Japanese dessert which offsets the bitterness of the brew, and you'll be shown how to correctly drink it and pay your respects to the ceremony.

The experience costs 510 JPY and is a great stop off to get you ready for the traditional charm that awaits you in Kyoto.

Drive the rest of the way to Kyoto and relax for the evening

After the ceremony continue on to Kyoto. The drive is likely to take around three hours so you probably won't arrive in Kyoto until the early evening.

Check into your hotel and spend tonight having a walk around, grabbing some food, and generally just getting a feel for the city's charm ahead of your full day exploring on day 6.

Day 6: Kyoto - visit some shrines, have lunch at Nishiki Market, celebrate the season, & discover the Gion district

Often dubbed 'the spiritual heart of Japan', Kyoto is awash with old Japanese charm, standing proud as a historical archive amongst Japan's modern skyscrapers.

This leg of the journey is, then, all about the traditional - think temples, tea and geishas.

Spend the morning temple and shrine hopping in Kyoto

If there's one thing synonymous with Kyoto it's temples and shrines, so have breakfast at your hotel then head out for a morning of zen.

There are over 2,000 temples and shrines in Kyoto, so you could literally spend weeks here trying to see them all. Instead, check out a few of our favourites to prioritise during your trip.

The places in our selection aren't located within walking distance of one another so be aware you'll have to travel between them if you do fancy a tour of all of them, but picking just one or two is equally as good and will give you more time to visit them in detail.

Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

The top two floors of this famous Zen temple in northern Kyoto are completely covered in gold leaf to represent the extravagant Kitayama culture of when it was first built.

Each floor represents a different architectural style, making it a really unique and interesting temple to visit.

View the pavilion across the pond and try and have a peek through the open windows; although the building isn't open to the public, the inside is just as decorative as the outside, and the windows are often left open to allow people a glimpse into this opulent temple.

There's also a beautiful garden, a tea house, and various souvenir shops located in the temple complex. Admission costs 400 JPY.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

This Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto is famous for its tunnels of torii gates straddling hiking trails behind the main complex - we're talking thousands of the iconic red archways.

Each gate has been donated by an individual or company, and if you look closely you'll find the donor's name written on one of the posts.

Do the hike if you're feeling energetic (the trip to the top of the mountain and back takes around three hours), or just walk a small stretch of the trail and have a look around the shrine itself.

Admission is free, however if you go into the shrine you should make a small offering.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

As one of the most famous sights in the whole city, this ancient temple was first built in 798 with later additions made from 1633.

Aside from the beauty of the buildings and grounds, there are many traditions you can partake in to grant you a happy and prosperous future.

For example, it is believed that visitors who drink the sacred water from the Otowa-no-taki waterfall will be blessed with health and longevity, and those that spin the rock in the darkness of the Tainai-meguri get to make a wish.

Admission costs 400 JPY.

Note: due to renovations, the outside of the main hall will be covered up until 2020. It's still possible to visit the inside during this time.

Have lunch at Nishiki Market

When the hunger pangs kick in make your way to central Nishiki Market for some lunch.

Known as 'Kyoto's kitchen', this long shopping street is lined with over a hundred shops and restaurants selling all things food-related. You can buy everything here, from the sharpest Japanese knives, to fresh seafood, fruit and veg, dried seasonings, and ready-to-eat bites.

Have a browse, buy some souvenirs, and pick up a couple of skewers of freshly made street food (each stall tends to specialise in a different dish so we'd recommend hitting up a few). Don't expect a sit down meal here, it's all about fast, grab-and-go dining.

Celebrate the best of the season in the afternoon

Once you've refuelled, we've got a few options of what to do next based on the season you're travelling in.

Winter - soak in an onsen

If you're travelling in the cold season, you'll probably be wanting a warming activity after your outdoor morning of temple hopping, and visiting an onsen, (a public bath fed by a hot spring) is a great option.

Not only will it warm you up, the water in these baths is said to have healing properties and be full of minerals that are great for your skin and circulation, as well as being incredibly relaxing.

Whilst you'll find quite a few indoor baths in the centre of Kyoto, we'd recommend you head slightly out of town to Kurama Onsen to soak in the outdoor pool amongst the snowy trees and mountains.

It really is as idyllic as it sounds, but we must warn you - it's birthday suits only in the pools.

Although this sounds pretty daunting, don't let it put you off! This is a daily ritual for the Japanese so they're unlikely to bat an eyelid, and you'll be so relaxed after a few minutes you'll forget to worry too.

It's also worth noting that you must wash before you get in, wrap long hair in a towel to avoid it going in the water, and that you're forbidden from entering the pools if you have tattoos.

Spring - host your own hanami cherry blossom party

If you're travelling in Japan in spring you will have been basking in flurries of blossoms for five days already, however there's no better place to celebrate these photogenic flowers than in historic Kyoto.

Traditionally to welcome the start of spring, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties consist of people gathering beneath the blossom for food, drinks, music (read: karaoke), and conversation.

Pack your own picnic and throw your own hanami, or make friends with some locals and join in their party.

Travel tip: anywhere is great for one of these get-togethers, however a particularly beautiful spot is the Kyoto Botanical Garden, which is at its best in early April.

Summer - visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Granted, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is an iconic Kyoto sight in any season, however we think it's particularly beautiful in the summer.

This famed pathway through towering bamboo trees is like stepping into another world, and is a calming, unique experience that comes into its own when the summer sun is filtering through the branches as they softly sway in the breeze.

It's also a great place to seek some shade on a particularly hot day and get away from the city for an hour or two.

The summer is also the perfect time to watch traditional cormorant fishing on nearby Hozu River, so you could always head there once you're done at the Grove. You'll be able to catch this technique every day in July and August in the early evening.

Autumn - ride the Sagano Scenic Railway

The fall foliage in Kyoto is just as impressive as the cherry blossom, and if you're travelling in autumn we'd recommend going for a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway (also known as the Sagano Romantic Train or Sagano Torokko).

This picturesque train line runs a slow 25-minute route over a 12-kilometre stretch through forested hills which are at their best when the leaves turn in the autumn.

Hop on the train at Saga-Arashiyama Station in the west of the city and ride the line to Torokko Kameoka Station, taking in the views and snapping some pictures.

The trains themselves are also pretty scenic and traditional, and feature four enclosed cars and one fully open-air car that's best for the photographers among you. Book in advance at a JR ticket office to make sure you get the seat you want.

Once you get to Torokko Kameoka you can either get the train back or take a Hozugawa River Cruise back to Arashiyama, both are great for making the most of the orangey leaves.

Tickets cost 620 JPY one way and there are no discounts for round trips.

Spend the evening in the Gion district

Round off your time in Kyoto with an evening in the Gion District, Kyoto's famous geisha quarter and the top entertainment area of the city.

Although a great place to visit at any time, Gion is at its best in the early evening when dusk begins to fall and lanterns are lit along the traditional streets, illuminating the tea houses, authentic eateries, and wooden machiya merchant houses.

If you're lucky you may also see a maiko (apprentice geisha) disappearing around a corner on her way to an appointment, although if you do try not to stare or take too many pictures - they're people not tourist attractions!

Explore the area, wander into one of the many restaurants for dinner (or do some research and book in advance), and enjoy a spot of entertainment if you've got some energy left.

Private geisha performances are really expensive and often pretty hard to come by, so if you fancy seeing these impressive performers in action we'd recommend heading to Gion Corner instead.

This venue puts on hour-long traditional performances which feature seven kinds of Japanese arts including kyo-mai dance performed by maiko dancers, and Kyogen, a form of comical theatre.

Tickets to a show cost 3,150 JPY, and reservation isn't necessary unless you're travelling in a large group.

Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka - drive to Osaka, do some sightseeing & go on a street food tour

The drive from Kyoto to Osaka should take less than an hour, so set off after breakfast to get there around mid-morning ready to kick off the final full day of your Japan road trip.

Although as modern and striking as Tokyo, Japan's third largest city Osaka has a different vibe to the capital.

The city was nicknamed 'the nation's kitchen' during the Edo period when it was a centre for Japanese rice trading, and this label persists today, making the city one of Japan's main foodie hubs.

But more on the food later, first hit up a few of the city's best sights to get you better acquainted with this part of the country.

Purchase an Osaka Amazing Pass and head to some of the best sights in the city

A great way to soak up Osaka's sights is to buy an Osaka Amazing Pass.

This is essentially your golden ticket to around 35 different attractions, plus unlimited travel on buses and city trains for 2,500 JPY for the day. A holiday free of ticket-buying and individual admission fees definitely has our vote.

We'd recommend leaving the car at the hotel and choosing three sights (with a break for lunch in between) to make the most of the pass and get a feel for the city.

Our top three sights included in the pass are:

1. Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan due to its role in the unification of the country in the 16th century, and proudly stands out against the backdrop of Osaka's modern skyscrapers.

However don't be fooled, although built to the original Edo-era designs, the castle that stands today is actually a concrete reproduction built in the 1990s (the original was destroyed multiple times throughout history).

Today it houses an informative museum detailing the castle's history, as well as an observation deck on the top floor where you can look out across the city.

2. The Umeda Sky Building

For even more incredible views make your way to the Umeda Sky Building.

This striking skyscraper consists of two towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.

In the basement there's also a food hall built to replicate a town from the Showa Period - a great place to stop for some lunch to break up the sightseeing.

3. Nagai Botanical Garden

Top off your sightseeing with a walk around the beautiful Nagai Botanical Garden.

Located in the corner of Nagai Park, this lovely green space is home to colourful seasonal flowers, around 1,000 species of trees, local wildlife, and a large pond.

This is the ideal place for a relaxing sit down after your busy few hours in Osaka, and is home to the Osaka Museum of Natural History (also included in the Amazing Pass) if you fancy browsing some artefacts before the afternoon draws to a close.

Spend the evening doing a self-guided street food tour

The arrival of the evening means it's time for food, so have a quick freshen up at your hotel then hit the town for a street food tour. We hope you're hungry - there's a lot to squeeze in!

Eating should, without a doubt, be central to any trip to Osaka to honour the city's unofficial slogan 'kuidaore' meaning 'eat until you drop'.

This saying is best associated with the Dotonbori area of the city which runs along the Dotonbori river and is packed full of eateries ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food vendors.

This strip of eateries lights up at night with hundreds of neon billboards and restaurant signs competing to win your attention, and coupled with the incredible smells drifting through the air the area is unmistakable.

You probably don't need our help in where to go as you're likely to get tempted by the look and smell of dishes as you walk through, however we thought we'd offer our favourite suggestions just in case you're having difficulty choosing.

Kick off your tour with some takoyaki

A great dish to begin your tour is takoyaki , balls of batter filled with octopus, bits of crispy tempura and ginger, drizzled with mayonnaise and topped with flakes of salty dried bonito fish.

These little mouthfuls of joy are perfectly balanced in flavour and are usually devoured by locals as an afternoon snack, making them the perfect appetisers for your street food tour.

They're as mesmerising to watch being made as they are delicious to eat, and a great place to pick some up is Takoyaki Dotonbori Kukuru which sells some of the best takoyaki in the area. To find it just look out for the huge octopus sign (you can't miss it).

Next up, okonomiyaki

Another absolute staple street food in Osaka is okonomiyaki , a kind of Japanese pancake made from batter mixed with shredded cabbage, which is often topped with pork and a rich, sticky sauce.

Warai is undoubtedly the place to go for great okonomiyaki in Dotonbori. This restaurant has loads of different flavours to choose from (including veggie options), as well as lots of other great Japanese dishes if you fancy some accompaniments.

This is more of a sit down affair than the other foods you'll try during your tour as the okonomiyaki is brought to a large hot plate in the centre of your table for you to finish cooking for yourself, all adding to the experience of eating this tasty dish.

Finish your meal by slurping some ramen

There's always room for ramen, so make one more stop before you call it a day on the food.

This world-famous noodle soup is an absolute classic we couldn't leave out of our food tour, so head to Kinryu - a chain with four restaurants in Dotonbori - for the best.

Go for the tonkatsu (pork bone broth) which is their signature dish, and slurp to your heart's content.

Note: contrary to popular belief you don't have to slurp your noodles to show that you're enjoying them. The way you eat your ramen is totally up to you - silence and slurping are both welcome.

Head to a bar to toast your trip (if you can manage it after all that food), then make your way back to your hotel and relax for your final night in Japan.

Day 8: Osaka - see any last minute sights and fly home

We're leaving your day 8 itinerary up to you to shape around your flight time, so just see any sights you missed out on on day 7, have a final taste of your favourite street food, grab one last cup of green tea, then make your way to the airport.

Sayonara! We hope you've enjoyed your Japan road trip!

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

8 favorite scenic spots on road trip routes in Japan

Drive along japan's famous roads winding through beautiful seasonal scenery.

There's nothing quite like a road trip, by automobile or motorcycle, to take in the magnificent scenery of Japan. From Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, join us as we drive along some of Japan's most famous and remarkable roads. There's plenty of variation to appreciate throughout Japan's 4 distinct seasons, from the vivid greenery of springtime and the sea under bright blue skies in summer, to the red and golden leaves of autumn and snow-capped peaks in wintertime. Whether traveling alone or with family or friends, you're sure to have the trip of a lifetime.

Yamanami Highway

Views of mountains and undulating mountain pass connecting yufuin and aso.

The 60-kilometre-long Prefectural Road No. 11 (Beppu Aso Ichinomiya Line) runs through the mountainous area connecting Yufuin and Aso. Nicknamed Yamanami Highway ("Mountain Range Highway"), this is the most famous driving route in Kyushu. The scenery from the pass overlooking the Kuju mountain range is exceptional. Take a break at Asahidai Observatory (once visited by Emperor Showa) to view the vast panorama from an altitude of 1,000 meters. There's also a restaurant nearby where you can enjoy local flavors. The climax is Chojahara, where Mt. Iou appears in front of you. This phenomenal scenery is unmissable. You can also enjoy a walk from Chojabaru to Tadewara Wetland.

Chirihama Nagisa Driveway

Enjoy a luxurious drive along a sandy beach beside the sea of japan.

This is a rare find: a driveway along a sandy beach next to the Sea of Japan, about a 40-minute drive north of Kanazawa. You don't need a beach buggy or anything like that, either. Ordinary automobiles, motorcycles, buses, and bicycles are all free to travel here. This is a really cool way to enjoy the sea breeze and spectacular ocean views. In the early evening, the bright red sunset lights up the sea, creating a fantastic atmosphere. There are souvenir shops and restaurants nearby, so after a drive, why not take a break and try some delicious seafood? There's even a soothing footbath at the roadside station here.

10 Interesting Villages and Sights near Osaka

10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Kanazawa

10 Revered Buddhas in Japan

Setouchi shimanami kaido, a seaside cycling route up there with the world's best.

This cycling route starts from Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture in Honshu and from Imabari, Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku. Now the envy of cyclists around the world, the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido experience is great for experienced cyclists, as it offers a ride that covers a minimum distance of 70 kilometers. The highlight is being able to see the scenery unique to Seto Inland Sea from the top of the bridge. If you want to break up your journey a bit, make sure you stop by the islands, beaches and restaurants for some relaxation, or take a quick excursion by boat or bus. There are many places where you can rent a bicycle, and you can return your bicycle at drop-off points along the way.

Irabu-Ohashi Bridge

The longest toll-free bridge in japan is now open.

The 3,540-metre-long Irabu Ohashi Bridge, which opened in 2015, connects Miyakojima and Irabujima in Okinawa Prefecture, making it possible to drive to enjoy island tourism that was previously limited to boats. This is the longest bridge in Japan that you can cross free of charge. The 15-minute drive gives spectacular views of the beautiful clear sea with its coral reefs as well as the bridge itself. The view from Makiyama Observatory on Irabu Island is a particular standout. This is the perfect spot overlooking the islands of Okinawa in the sea known as "Miyako Blue". Photo opps abound, so get ready to shoot.

Roads leading to heaven (Hokkaido)

These long, straight roads are symbolic of hokkaido.

Passing through Shiretoko Shari, the increasingly popular national highways 244 and 334 are also known as "roads leading to heaven". The seemingly endless straight road (actually about 27.5 kilometers long) gives a really strange feeling of driving up to heaven. The real charm of travel in Hokkaido is on full show here, with the natural environment of Shiretoko, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the setting sun on the horizon in front of you. This is a drive like no other, an unforgettable experience for all.

Take a drive from the foot of Mt. Yatsugatake through Utsukushigahara

This famous route takes in sightseeing spots in Nagano Prefecture, Tateshina Onsen, Lake Shirakaba, Kirigamine Plateau, Utsukushigahara Plateau, and more. The idyllic scenery is that of a seemingly endless mountain road. Head to the Mitsumine Observatory for a panoramic view of the mountains from high altitude. At the highest point, the Utsukushigahara Plateau, there's a 360-degree panoramic view where you'll see calves grazing on ranches. Oh and don't forget to visit Utsukushigahara Kogen Museum for some artistic exploration.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

A nature-rich mountain road running from tateyama to kurobe dam.

From Tateyama to Murodo, the highest point, this drive takes you up through Bijodaira Forest, which is lined with giant trees, and the 350-metre-high Shomyo Falls. In summertime you can enjoy stunning views of Mikurigaike, a lake in which the mountains of the Northern Alps are clearly reflected on the surface of the water, while in the wintertime there's a "Snow Corridor" with 20-metre-high snow walls running over 500 meters. From the Daikanbo mountain you can see Lake Kurobe and the Ushiro-Tateyama mountain range, and the autumn leaves here are particularly beautiful. The water discharged from Kurobe Dam (also known as "Kuroyon") is another impressive sight. You'll definitely get a sense of sweat and tears that went into constructing this dam.

Roller Coaster Road

This straight road full of ups and downs is a must-visit in furano and biei.

This farm road is flanked by beautiful Hokkaido scenery and has been certified as one of the 8 most picturesque sights in Kamifurano. It gets its name from the fact that there are some hair-raising ups and downs over a stretch of about 2.5 kilometers. But of course you won't be going at roller coaster speeds, so take your time to check out the colorful patchwork fields of Biei and Furano with their beautiful rows of flowers and vegetables. And in the background you'll see the majestic Mount Tokachi. For a summer drive by automobile (or a motorcycle ride) through Hokkaido, this is hard to beat.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

Start planning your trip

Related stories.

10 Best Things to Do in Beppu

10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Fukuoka

10 Things to Do in Kyoto on a Small Budget

8 Best Things to Do for Couples in Okinawa

3 Cool Things to Do in Nara at Night

Keep exploring.

• Hyogo Prefecture
• Hokkaido Prefecture
• Okinawa Island
• Hong Kong SAR
• Philippines
• South Korea

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and central america, middle east, north america, south america, top destinations.

• Hotels in Las Vegas
• Hotels in New York
• Hotels in Chicago
• Hotels in Orlando
• Hotels in New Orleans
• Hotels in San Diego
• Hotels in Nashville
• Hotels in San Francisco
• Hotels in Los Angeles
• Hotels in Miami
• Hotels in Paris
• Hotels in Denver
• Hotels in Washington
• Hotels in Austin
• Hotels in Atlanta
• Hotels in San Antonio
• Hotels in Boston
• Hotels in Atlantic City
• Hotels in Key West
• Hotels in London
• Hotels in Virginia Beach
• Hotels in Seattle
• Hotels in Anaheim
• Hotels in Dallas

Top Countries & Regions

• Hotels in Aruba
• Hotels in Turks and Caicos
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Bermuda
• Hotels in Malta
• Hotels in Jersey Shore
• Hotels in Maui
• Hotels in Puerto Rico Island
• Hotels in Kauai
• Hotels in Oahu
• Hotels in Cape Cod

Support & FAQs

Website feedback.

• Review a property

For Suppliers, Affiliates, and the Media

• Affiliate with us
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Promote with us
• Travel agents

User terms & Privacy

• Terms & Conditions
• Do not sell my personal information
• About our ads
• Legal Information

List your property

• Hotels near me
• Travel Guides
• Vacation Rentals

* Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Details on site.

© 2024 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

• Transportation

Japan Road Trip: 10 Scenic Driving Roads in Japan

Most Beautiful Driving Roads for Road Trip in Japan

Road trip in Japan is simply awesome. Japan has amazing scenic spots and driving roads across the country, and some of them are difficult to reach by public transport especially outside of cities, and recommended to access by car. Road trip allows you to go wherever and whenever you like and this can make your trip much more smooth and exciting. Driving in Japan is much easier than you think. Let me introduce you some of most amazing scenic driving roads in Japan which I’ve been and for sure you will be wanting to do a road trip in Japan after reading this!! 🙂

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

>> Book your rental car in Japan with the cheapest rate!! (English Website)<<

1. Roller Coaster Road, in Furano, Hokkaido

Hokkaido is arguably the best place for road trip in Japan and has lots of scenic driving routes with their tremendous field to enjoy driving with panoramic views. The “Roller Coaster Road (ローラーコースターロード)” is located in a center of the land, Furano city. The 2.5 km straight road has repeated up and down slopes which make you feel like riding on a roller coaster.

Map: http://bit.ly/2VHHjaf

2. Patchwork Road in Biei, Hokkaido

Patchwork Road (パッチワークロード) allows you to drive through the tremendous crop field and hills of Hokkaido. Biei is a small town located in a center of Hokkaido, and numbers of commercial advertises were shoot at many locations here. Biei’s scenery attracts thousands of tourist every year. Best time to visit is summer time.

Map: http://bit.ly/2Hwiq7u

3. Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima

Average altitude of 1,350 meters. Drive with the panoramic view of the volcanic mountain, Azuma which is located at the boarder of Fukushima and Yamagata prefecture. The scenery at Bandai-Azuma Skyline (磐梯吾妻スカイライン) is spectacular especially early autumn with foliage.

Map: http://bit.ly/2JO4b0y

4. Izu Skyline in Shizuoka

Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka is a nature treasure. A 40.6 km long toll road ” Izu Skyline (伊豆スカイライン) ” is situated in eastern Izu peninsula which runs from south to north with a magnificent view of Mt Fuji, the highlands, the mountain and the beautiful coast line of Sagami Bay.

Map: http://bit.ly/2LQfHv0

5. Venus Line in Nagano

Scenic drive through the great highlands in Nagano Prefecture. The 70 km long road “ Venus Line (ヴィーナスライン) ” connecting Chino and the Utsukushi Ga Hara is a perfect place for road trip during summer with cool fresh breeze.

Map: http://bit.ly/2w437xj

6. Chirihama Nagisa Driveway in Ishikawa

Have you imagined driving on the beach?? Chirihama Nagisa Driveway (千里浜なぎさドライブウェイ) is the only beach allowed to drive vehicles in Japan. (apparently there are only 3 public drive ways on the beach in the world!!) The 8km long road is one of the most appealing tourists destinations in Japan.

Map: http://bit.ly/2Ho2DJ2

7. Metasequoia Tree Road in Shiga

Over 500 sequoia trees are lined along the 2.4 km straight road and each of them are over 35 m tall. In spring and summer, the view of fresh green sequoias can be enjoyed and if you wish to see lines of golden sequoias, visit there in autumn and winter.

Map: http://bit.ly/2W3N55l

8. Shikoku Karst in Ehime & Kochi

The biggest Karst in Japan is located in Shikoku region across Ehime and Kochi prefectures. The Shikoku Karst (四国カルスト) ‘s driving road is located at 1,200~1,400 m altitude with 25 km long. The scenic view of mountain ranges, grass field and grazing cattle is just breathtaking.

Map: http://bit.ly/2W3IHDr

9. Tsunoshima Bridge in Yamaguchi

One of the best scenic views in Japan. Tsunoshima Bridge (角島大橋) connects the mainland and a small remote island in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Crossing this 1,780 m long bridge is like driving on top of ocean. Once you reach the island, enjoy their beautiful beaches with clear blue water and white sand.

Map: http://bit.ly/2JIzBFq

10. Aso in Kumamoto

Drive with the super scenic view of volcanic mountains with a world largest caldera and green grass fields. Aso (阿蘇) is actually my favourite on this list as it’s very unique and untouched. Although the area is partially closed due to its volcanic activity and the damage from earthquake, the dynamic view of the great nature of Aso can be enjoyed all year round.

Map: http://bit.ly/2w43l7D

Hope you’ve enjoyed my review of Japanese scenic driving roads! For more information about Japan, check these articles below!!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. If you continue to browse, you accept the use of cookies on our site. See our Cookie Policy for more information.

JAPAN by Japan​

• Destinations
• Things to Do
• Plan Your Trip

• Four Itineraries to Explore Japan’s Diverse Charms
• Discover Another Japan San’in

Quiz on Driving Rules of Japan

Know before you hit the road.

• Your Beautiful Road Trip in Japan Photo Contest

Online Event

• Hit the road to Japan’s secret spots

Always wanted to discover and explore Japan’s secluded spots? With a rental car, head out on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip to some of Japan’s most iconic hidden gems and various sites that certainly become much conveniently accessible while driving.​

Watch the video Hit the road to Japan’s secret spots (Nagano edition)

Recommended road trip itineraries to explore.

Japan’s diverse charms

From breezy coastal drives and picturesque mountain roads to stunning routes through Japan’s magnificent seasonal scenery, enjoy road trips through Toyama, Nagano, Fukushima, and Hokkaido to witness the different charms the land of the rising sun has to offer.

Toyama and Ishikawa

Hit the road on an incredible coastal drive

Stunning drive through autumn foliage

A road trip through the clouds

Drive through a picturesque flower-themed route

DISCOVER ANOTHER JAPAN

Go through the road traffic rules of Japan to have a better understanding and find out the differences between that and those of Singapore’s, so as to have a pleasant, fun and safe driving journey. Hit full score at the quiz to receive 500 member points!

Driving in Japan is likely to be at least a little different from what you are normally used to, so here are some tips and suggestions to help you plan and ease you on your journey.

What you need to know when driving in Japan’s snowy areas​

​Things to know before going on a road trip in Japan​

Rental cars in Japan​​

​Fun road trips for the family​

Move around easily with various ways to travel in Okinawa​

Enjoy summer in Kyushu driving around in a rental car​​

Your Beautiful Road Trip in Japan

Photo Contest

Share your favourite road trip experiences and journeys in Japan via Instagram posts with #jbyjroadtrip and win amazing prizes, including travel vouchers!

Hit the Road to San’in’s Secret Spots

Saturday, 23 July 2022 2 - 3 pm (SGT)

Be a JbyJ member now!

Sign up for JbyJ newsletters packed with the latest information of Japan.

Get advisory information regarding COVID-19 situation in Japan

The Ultimate Itinerary for a Trip to Japan: Unforgettable 7, 10 and 14 Day Journeys (Updated 2024)

Some destinations reward spontaneity – in Europe, cheap flights and rail passes give  you the freedom to wake up in the morning and choose your next destination on a whim. Japan, on the other hand, rewards forward planning.

The country’s abundance of both natural and manmade attractions, combined with its high standard of living and general efficiency, make it a fairly pricey destination. The more you plan, the better you can mitigate the damage to your wallet, and get the most out your trip – no matter how long you plan to stay.

These itineraries are designed to inspire you to build your own trip. Based around a few key highlights that represent both modern and ancient, they’re crafted to give you a rich and satisfying experience of Japan in 7, 10 or 14 days. Let’s jump right in!

Psst: want more tips for planning a trip to Japan? Check our rail pass guide  and cheap eating tips .

• 1 Getting Around
• 2 7 Day Itinerary: Tokyo and Mt Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes)
• 3 7 Day Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto and Nara
• 4 10 Day Itinerary: Tokyo, Mt Fuji and Kyoto
• 5 10 Day Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima
• 6 14 Day Itinerary: Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima

Getting Around

Before we get to the itineraries, there's one important piece of planning to keep in mind – whether or not to get a JR pass . A Japan Rail (JR) pass is exclusively available to tourists, and grants you unlimited travel on JR trains within Japan, including the world-famous bullet trains. Depending on your itinerary, this will save you time and money vs buying individual train tickets within Japan. But importantly,  you must purchase the pass before you arrive in Japan . We recommend ordering from Klook for their low prices and 10-day global delivery.

We've marked the itineraries that we recommend the JR pass for below, but for a more in-depth guide, be sure to read our full guide The Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth The Cost?

7 Day Itinerary: Tokyo and Mt Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes)

Get the essentials of urban and rural Japan with four days in the unforgettable capital, followed by three days of reflection and recovery under the shadow of Mt Fuji.

Tokyo: 4 Days

• Highlights: Go crazy in Japan’s frenetic, eclectic and incomparable capital. Live out a manga fantasy in Akihabara , drink shoulder to shoulder with locals in Roppongi , and see the world’s largest metropolis in 360 degrees from the top of the Tokyo Tower . And for an immersive digital art experience, check out the popular teamLab Planets TOKYO Museum .
• Where to stay: Public transport is comprehensive, so search far afield. Roppongi neighborhood if you like nightlife, Shinjuku to be close to the beating heart. Use TripAdvisor to compare hotel and hostel deals across all booking sites along with thousands of reviews.
• What to eat : Chains like Sushiro ($1 / plate train sushi) and the ubiquitous Gyudon houses like Yoshinoya can get you a delicious local meal for a budget price. Check out a Maid Cafe for an authentic (if risque) local experience!

Mt Fuji: 3 Days

Tip: If you don't have 3 days to spend in Fuji, you can book a  full day tour from Tokyo .

• Highlights: See why this 3776 meter high mountain has inspired artists, writers and pilgrims for countless centuries. Soak up the volcanic waters in the Five Lakes District , a major tourist destination since the 1920s, it’s still possible to get away from the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.
• Where to stay:  The Five Lakes Region contains a wealth of hotels and resorts. If you’re striking out, try a bit further away from (but still in plain view of) the mountain in Hakone district. Compare across booking sites with TripAdvisor's hotel search.
• What to eat: Try the regional speciality: udon noodles, often served cold in a delicate, flavorful sauce.

7 Day Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto and Nara

Osaka: 3 Days

• Highlights: Japan’s second biggest city is a microcosm of everything that magnetizes visitors to the country. Gaze in awe at giant plastic sea creatures and effusive street vendors in Dōtonbori , wander among the tuna merchants at the fish market, and connect with history at the 16th century Osaka Castle . Get to know Osaka like a local with a highly-rated walking tour .
• Where to stay: Try AirBNB and trust the train network if you find a good option a little outside of town. For hotels and hostels, compare across booking sites using TripAdvisor .
• What to eat : The same budget chains in Tokyo will serve you well here (I practically moved in to my nearest Sushiro!), but you really must try the street food on Dōtonbori .

Kyoto: 2 days

• Highlights: After the urban grunge of Osaka, it’s time to embrace the Japan’s spiritual side at the ancient seat of empire. It’s still possible to see Geisha in the historic Higashiyama District, which you can even explore by rickshaw , and the subtle beauty of temples like Kinkaku-ji is simply too much to put into words. Make sure you catch everything there is to see with a custom-made walking tour with a local . Go!
• Where to stay: Downtown Kyoto is the most convenient spot for sightseeing and will allow you to cover much of the historic town on foot. Try Airbnb or compare hotels and hostels across booking sites with TripAdvisor .
• What to eat : Restaurant prices can be steep so take a trick from the locals and stock up on tasty (and filling) instant meals at chain stores like the ubiquitous 7/11

Nara: 2 days

• Highlights: Stick with the theme of history but swap the Geisha for sacred deer in Nara , Japan’s capital from AD 710 to 794. In Nara park you can sip green tea in a traditional “Chaya” tea house and watch the deer frolic over 700 year old ground. Hire a local guide to make sure you catch it all!
• Where to stay. While it’s possible to day trip from Osaka, the town is well worth staying overnight – guest houses are abundant and there are even hotels in the historical park! You can compare all your options and find the best price using TripAdvisor .
• What to eat . Vegetarian food and pickled delicacies are the local specialities, due to the surrounding mountains and buddhist communities.

10 Day Itinerary: Tokyo, Mt Fuji and Kyoto

Got 10 days? Let’s do it right. Take a deep dive into the capital, cleanse yourself with nature in Mt Fuji and the surrounding 5 Lake District, and transport yourself back in time in Kyoto – a rich overview that will leave you feeling refreshed, satisfied and exhilarated.

For this itinerary, we recommend a JR pass . It will save you precious travel time on the bullet train, and save you money on train fares between, and within, Tokyo and Kyoto. Remember to order your pass BEFORE you enter Japan (we recommend Klook ). If you're still unsure, be sure to check out our in-depth guide on whether the JR pass is worth it .

• Highlights: Lose yourself among the neon lights of Shibuya and have a drink at the Monster Cafe . Watch locals transform themselves into Manga characters on an anime/gaming tour in Akihabara , drink hot sake with locals in Roppongi, and let digital art completely immerse your senses in  Japan’s unforgettable capital.
• Where to stay: Public transport is comprehensive so search far afield. Roppongi neighborhood if you like nightlife, Shinjuku to be close to the beating heart.
• What to eat : Tokyo has unlimited dining options – if you’re on a budget, try Gyudon and brave the budget chains where it’s still possible to order with ancient vending machine located by the kitchen!

• Highlights: Make all your instagram followers jealous as you soak up the steamy volcanic waters under the shadow of Japan’s largest and most famous mountain.
• Where to stay:  The Five Lakes Region near the mountain contains a wealth of hotels and resorts. If you’re striking out, try a bit further away from (but still in plain view of) the mountain in Hakone district.

Kyoto: 3 days

• Highlights: The twin temples Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji  (gold pavilion and silver pavilion) have been carrying out an architectural and spiritual debate for centuries. It’s still possible to see Geisha in the historic Higashiyama District, which you can even explore by rickshaw . Make sure you catch everything there is to see with a custom-made walking tour with a local .
• Where to stay: Downtown Kyoto is the most convenient spot for sightseeing and will allow you to cover much of the historic town on foot.
• What to eat : Live out a warrior fantasy at the Samurai Restaurant . It’s a bit kitsch and definitely designed for the tourists, but so what – you’re on holiday!

10 Day Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima

Get the best of Japan today and yesterday in racey Osaka, tranquil Kyoto and serene Nara, before coming face to face with perhaps the darkest period of Japan’s history at Hiroshima.

For this itinerary, we recommend a JR pass . It will save you tons of travel time on the bullet train to Hiroshima, and save money on train fares within the Osaka/Kyoto/Nara area. You need to order your pass BEFORE you enter Japan (we recommend Klook ). If you're still unsure, be sure to check out our in-depth guide on whether the JR pass is worth it .

• Highlights: “Forget Tokyo,” I was told when I planned my first trip to Japan, “Go to Osaka!” While the capital is awesome, Japan’s second city more than holds its own. Here you can gaze in awe at giant plastic sea creatures and effusive street vendors in Dōtonbori, wander among the tuna merchants at the fish market, and connect with history at the 16th century Osaka Castle. Get to know Osaka like a local with a highly-rated walking tour .
• Where to stay: Try AirBNB and trust the train network if you find a good option a little outside of town.
• What to eat : Try the street food on Dōtonbori! A nightfood tour will help you find the best spots and eat where the locals eat!
• Highlights: Say goodbye to the furious pace of modern Japanese city life, and embrace the tranquil, spiritual and ancient in Kyoto. Believe it or not, but it's still possible to see Geisha in the historic Higashiyama District, even from a rickshaw . The gentle beauty of temples like Kinkaku-ji is simply too much to put into words. Make sure you catch everything there is to see with a custom-made walking tour with a local . Go!

• Highlights: In Nara park you can sip green tea in a traditional “Chaya” tea house and watch the deer frolic over 700 year old ground. Hire a local guide to make sure you catch it all!
• Where to stay. While it’s possible to day trip from Osaka, the town is well worth staying overnight – guest houses are abundant and there are even hotels in the historical park!
• What to eat . Thank the Buddhist communities in the surrounding mountains for the abundance of local vegetarian food.

Hiroshima: 2 days

• Highlights : Infamous for its more recent history (which you can learn from a local on a cycling tour ), the rebirth of Hiroshima from ashes into a vibrant modern city is reason to visit in itself. In addition to haunting museums and poignant relics to the nuclear attacks, Hiroshima is the gateway to rural Chūgoku , a chance to tip your toes into Japan’s unspoiled wilderness.
• Where to stay : Hiroshima is drenched in hotels. Stay near the train station for convenient access to the city center and surrounding attractions.
• What to eat : Try the local okonomiyaki, a delicious, savory grilled pancake smothered in sauces and toppings.

14 Day Itinerary: Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima

This is an itinerary for people who want it all! You’ve got two weeks, you’ve got your rail pass , and you’re going to jolly-well make the most out of your time. Well, if you’ve got the energy, then here’s how it could be done. It’s everything you see above, rolled into one epic itinerary for the bold and brave.

For this itinerary, we definitely recommend a JR pass . With the distance being covered from the east to the west of country, the amount of time and money this will save is a no-brainer. You must order your pass BEFORE you enter Japan (we recommend Klook ). But if you're still unsure, be sure to check out our in-depth guide on whether the JR pass is worth it .

• Highlights: Start with the blast of energy, neon, weirdness and glamour that is Japan’s capital. Opportunities for entertainment are virtually unlimited – feel the awe of the emperor at the imperial palace, indulge in a retail fantasy in Ginza, and finish the day with a well needed pint of Asahi in Roppongi.
• Where to stay: Public transport is comprehensive so search far afield. Roppongi neighborhood if you like nightlife, Shinjuku to be close to the beating heart. Use TripAdvisor to compare hotel and hostel deals across all booking sites along with thousands of reviews.
• What to eat : The real question is what NOT to eat. You could go to a different restaurant in Tokyo everyday for 20 years and still not run out of options. If you’re on a budget, look to the local fast food chains – if you’re on a tight budget, trust to the 7/11!

Mt Fuji: 2 Days

• Highlights: Hear a rumble? Fuji-san isn’t just a stunning, snow capped mountain, it’s still an active volcano! Soak up the volcanic waters and watch Fuji’s towering form from the Five Lakes District , a popular spot for locals and and travelers.
• Where to stay:  The Five Lakes Region contains a wealth of hotels and resorts. If you’re striking out, try a bit further away from (but still in plain view of) the mountain in Hakone district. Compare across booking sites with TripAdvisor's hotel search.
• What to eat: Try the regional speciality: udon noodles, often served cold in a delicate, flavorful sauce. 

Osaka: 2 Days

• Highlights: Japan’s second biggest city is a microcosm of everything that magnetizes visitors to the country. Gaze in awe at giant plastic sea creatures and effusive street vendors in Dōtonbori , wander among the tuna merchants at the fish market, and connect with history at the 16th century Osaka Castle .Get to know Osaka like a local with a highly-rated walking tour .
• Where to stay: Try AirBNB  or TripAdvisor and trust the train network if you find a good option a little outside of town.
• What to eat : The same budget chains in Tokyo will serve you well here (I practically moved in to my nearest Sushiro!) but you really must try the street food on Dōtonbori .
• Where to stay: Downtown Kyoto is the most convenient spot for sightseeing and will allow you to cover much of the historic town on foot. Try  Airbnb  or compare hotels and hostels across booking sites with  TripAdvisor .

• Where to stay. While it’s possible to day trip from Osaka, the town is well worth staying overnight – guest houses are abundant and there are even hotels in the historical park! You can compare all your options and find the best price using  TripAdvisor .
• Where to stay : Hiroshima is drenched in hotels. Stay near the train station for convenient access to the city center and surrounding attractions. Check both Airbnb and TripAdvisor for the best prices.

With the abundance of incredible places to visit in Japan, the only trouble you'll have with planning a trip here is which itinerary to follow. Tell us, what are your must-visit's on a trip to Japan?

INIGO CIA DA RIVA / Stocksy United

Japan is truly timeless, a place where ancient traditions fuse with modern life, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Japan. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Fuji Five Lakes

Fuji-san is among Japan's most revered and timeless attractions, the inspiration for generations of poets and the focus of countless artworks. Hundreds of…

Tokyo National Museum

Ueno & Yanesen

If you visit only one museum in Tokyo, make it the Tokyo National Museum. Here you'll find the world's largest collection of Japanese art, including…

A still, serene and deeply moving place, Nagasaki's Peace Park commemorates the atomic bombing of the city on August 9, 1945, which reduced the…

Nishiki Market

Downtown Kyoto

The covered Nishiki Market (Nishiki-kōji Ichiba) is one of Kyoto’s real highlights, especially if you have an interest in cooking and dining. Commonly…

Ghibli Museum

This museum is the heart of the Studio Ghibli world, a beloved (even 'adored') film studio responsible for classic, critically-acclaimed animated titles…

Shinjuku & Northwest Tokyo

Golden Gai – a Shinjuku institution for over half a century – is a collection of tiny bars, often literally no bigger than a closet and seating maybe a…

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya & Shimo-Kitazawa

Rumoured to be the busiest intersection in the world (and definitely in Japan), Shibuya Crossing is like a giant beating heart, sending people in all…

Cup Noodles Museum

This impressively slick attraction is dedicated to, you guessed it, cup noodles. But in reality, its focus is more broad, with numerous exhibitions…

Top picks from our travel experts

24 of the best experiences in japan.

Shirara-hama

Kii Peninsula

Shirahama's main beach is famous for its white sand – though what's there now was imported from Perth in the '90s, as the original sand was lost to…

Southern Higashiyama

Michelin-starred chef Murata serves some of the finest kaiseki in the city. Located in a hidden nook near Maruyama-kōen, this restaurant has everything…

This is one of Tokyo's better kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi restaurants), with fish sourced daily from the fish market in Numazu (south of Tokyo on…

Toyosu Market

Odaiba & Tokyo Bay

In 2018, Tokyo's central wholesale market moved from its iconic Tsukiji location to this new facility in Toyosu, a structure clearly dreamed up by…

Matsuo-jinja

Hiroshima Region

A Shintō shrine dedicated to the god of sake. Sake is brewed here every year in the lead-up to Saijō Sake Matsuri. It's a five-minute walk north of Saijo…

Tsukiji Market

Ginza & Tsukiji

Tokyo's main wholesale market may have moved to Toyosu, but there are many reasons to visit its old home. The tightly packed rows of vendors (which once…

Izumo Taisha

Western Honshū

Izumo Taisha, also known as Izumo Ōyashiro, is perhaps the oldest Shintō shrine in Japan. This shrine, dedicated to Ōkuninushi, god of marriage and…

Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Kyoto Station & South Kyoto

With seemingly endless arcades of vermilion torii (shrine gates) spread across a thickly wooded mountain, this vast shrine complex is a world unto its own…

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Nagano Region

Pleasant in winter when shrouded in snow but less appealing when seasonally bare, Jigokudani Monkey Park is wildly popular. Made famous by the 1992 film…

Art House Project

In Honmura, half a dozen traditional buildings have been turned over to contemporary artists to use as the setting for creative installations, often…

Tokyo Character Street

From Doraemon to Hello Kitty and Pikachu, Japan knows kawaii (cute) and how to merchandise it. In the basement on the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station, some 15…

Northwest Kyoto

You’ve probably seen a picture of the rock garden here – it’s one of the symbols of Kyoto and one of Japan’s better-known sights. Ryōan-ji belongs to the…

Dazaifu Tenman-gū

Among the countless visitors to the grand, sprawling Tenman-gū – shrine and burial place of poet-scholar Tenman Tenjin – are students making offerings and…

Kyoto's famed 'Golden Pavilion', Kinkaku-ji is one of Japan's best-known sights. The main hall, covered in brilliant gold leaf, shining above its…

Gion is the famous entertainment and geisha quarter on the eastern bank of the Kamo-gawa. While Gion’s true origins were in teahouses catering to weary…

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The main building of Hiroshima's premier museum houses a collection of items salvaged from the aftermath of the atomic bomb. The displays are confronting…

A long-time (in club years, at least) club-scene fixture, Womb is a reliable good night out on a Friday or Saturday if you want to lose yourself in the…

Pokémon Cafe

Pokémon fans will find it hard to pass on this chance to sample Pikachu-themed food and drink, made with classic kyara-ben (character bentō) techniques …

Yellow Pumpkin

This yellow pumpkin sculpture, by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, has become a symbol of Naoshima. It's perched on the end of a small jetty. Pumpkins are…

Highly photogenic Dōtombori is the city's liveliest night spot and the centre of the southern part of town. Its name comes from the 400-year-old canal,…

Hirosaki-jō

Aomori Prefecture

At the heart of Hirosaki-kōen lie the ancient remains of this castle, originally constructed in 1611. Rather tragically, only 16 years after it was built…

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Occupying a verdant swath of Hakone hillside is this unmissable art safari, leading visitors past a rich array of 19th- and 20th-century sculptures and…

Himeji-jō is Japan's most magnificent castle, built in 1580 by general Toyotomi Hideyoshi and one of only a few original castles from that era (most are…

Karato Ichiba

A highlight of a trip to Shimonoseki is an early-morning visit to the Karato fish market. It's a great opportunity to try sashimi for breakfast or lunch,…

Churei-tō Pagoda

One of the classic Fuji postcard views has this five-tiered red pagoda in the foreground surrounded by cherry blossoms. It's actually a war memorial,…

Taikodani-Inari-jinja

Within walking distance of town, this thriving shrine, built in 1773 by the seventh lord Kamei Norisada, is one of the five major Inari shrines in Japan…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From classic Japanese food and sights to local favorites and under-the-radar trends, these are 24 of the most inspiring experiences in Japan.

Things to Know

Be ready for a visit to Japan with these tips on health, safety and etiquette.

Transportation

With its myriad islands, towering mountains and megacities, Japan can be a daunting destination to get around. We've got everything you need to know.

Visa Requirements

From mystic mountains to mighty megacities, Japan is awash with iconic travel experiences. Here's what you need to know about visa requirements.

Money and Costs

Keep costs low when exploring Japan with these top money-saving tips.

Traveling with Kids

No matter where you go in Japan, you’ll find it’s an easy, fun and safe place to travel with kids.

Best Road Trips

Japan has excellent roads, dramatic landscapes and exciting regions to discover. Here are the best 10 road trips for getting to know the country better.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Japan

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Japan

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Tips & Advice

Apr 26, 2024 • 12 min read

Get to Japan for less with this expert's guide to maximizing points and miles for your next big trip in 2024.

Apr 2, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 27, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 9 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Japan

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Japan with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Japan and beyond

• Japanese Apartment Life
• Moving Tips
• Interior Design
• Local Area Guides
• PRIVACY POLICY

• Village House

Best Road Trips Through Japan

Traveling through a foreign country is a great experience and finding the right path to get to the best places is half of the fun. Check out our article to discover the best road trips in Japan.

Visiting a foreign country is a great experience that can help you open your mind to a different culture. There are many places in Japan that you can visit to get the most out of your trip. The problem is that there are so many things to experience that it may become confusing as to what to do. We will look at some of the best places to travel by car in Japan. These areas have beautiful scenery and will lead you to other towns and cities that may pique your interest.

Roller Coaster Road- Hokkaido

This is one of the most well-known roads in Japan and is one that should not be missed. It is straight, 2.5 kilometers long, full of hills, and varies in altitude as you drive it, hence the name. As you look outside, you are treated to beautiful fields, and eventually, the area mountains come into view. This road has been featured in popular Japanese television programs and has become a popular travel spot for Japanese people as well. It is a sight that will improve any trip to Japan and is one that is sure to impress family and friends.

Aso- Kumamoto

This area of Kumamoto is home to one of the largest calderas in the world. A caldera is a basin that has been created through volcanic activity. The road here goes through the caldera and even appears to disappear into the clouds. This spot was used in popular animated movies from Studio Ghibli and looks just as picturesque. You will get to see green fields, beautiful lakes, and mountain ranges in their full natural state. It is worth the trip to experience such beautiful landscapes.

Metasequoia- Shiga

This is a long stretch of road in Shiga that is lined with redwoods from beginning to end. It is the perfect way to experience the changing of the seasons and to see some great Japanese landscapes. It looks like a scene out of a movie and can be a great way to show off your trip to friends and family.

Chirihama Drive Way- Ishikawa

This is a long stretch of beach that is 8 kilometers long. You are allowed to drive on the beach and take in some of the best views of the ocean.

It is a popular place to park your car, start the grill, and take a dip in the beautiful waters. It is best to drive there since public transport is hard to get around the area.

Venus Line- Nagano

This road is meant to be a mountain sightseeing route from Chino to Ueda city. There are many popular spots to see while you travel the road. It is best to rent a car to travel this road so you can take your time and enjoy all of its natural beauty.

Tsunoshima Road- Yamaguchi

The bridge her is one that would please any tourist and bridge fanatic. It is 1,780 meters long and is known not only for its great photo spots but for the rising and falling of the bridge. It is truly a wonderful sight to experience and can leave you with some great photos to help you remember your time in Japan.

Izu Skyline- Shizuoka

This 40-kilometer toll road runs through the mountainous peninsula of Shizuoka. You can travel by train or car but you will be able to experience the hot springs, natural food, and other great tourist attractions by taking a car. The observation platforms offer great photo spots and nice places to rest and enjoy the surroundings. The many tolls may be a little cumbersome but they ensure a smooth and easy drive along the roads.

Patchwork Road- Biei

This is a 14-kilometer road that has all of the best viewing spots in Biei. You can get some of the best views of Mt. Asahi and Tokachi and it is one of the most foreigner-friendly roads to travel. There are many photo spots to help you keep great memories of your trip to Japan.

Shikoku Karst- Ehime and Kochi

This area is known for its hills and sweeping landscapes that show off its limestone hills. It is rare to find natural formations like it anywhere else. Public transportation is difficult to get, so a car is the best way to experience it. Every season offers new views and you can try some nice forest bathing as well.

Bandai-Azuma Skyline- Fukushima

This 29-kilometer road showcases the natural beauty of Fukushima. It is also known as “the road that runs the sky.” It offers a great panoramic view of the area and offers some of the best scenery during every season. A car is recommended to truly enjoy the area.

These are some of the most popular places to drive in Japan, and there are even more spots that you can find and enjoy. It is all about the experience of seeing all the natural beauty of Japan. It will be an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

©VILLAGE HOUSE. All rights reserved

• Meetings & Events
• Newsletter Sign-up
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Advisory Information
• Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文（香港） 繁體中文（臺灣） India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries（English） Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
• India (English)
• Bahasa Indonesia
• Singapore (English)
• Philippines (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Australia/New Zealand (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• Nordic countries（English）
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• United States (English)
• Mexico (español)
• Global (English)
• Fujiyoshida
• Shimonoseki
• Ishigaki Island
• Miyako Island
• Kerama Island
• Tokyo Island
• Koka & Shigaraki
• Hida Takayama
• Ginza, Nihonbashi
• Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
• Ginzan Onsen
• Nagasaki Islands

• Kumano Kodo
• Shikoku Karst
• Amami Oshima
• Hachimantai
• Omihachiman
• Aizuwakamatsu

• Diving in Japan
• Skiing in Japan
• Seasonal Flowers in Japan
• Sustainable Outdoors
• Off the Beaten Track in Japan
• Scenic Spots
• World Heritage
• Home Stays & Farm Stays

• Japanese Gardens
• Japanese Crafts
• Temple Stays
• Heritage Stays
• Festivals and Events
• Theater in Japan
• Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Cultural Experiences in Japan
• Culture in Japan

• Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
• Local Cuisine Western Japan
• Local Street Food
• Japan's Local Ekiben
• Japanese Whisky
• Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
• Sushi in Japan Guide
• Japanese Sake Breweries

• Art Museums
• Architecture
• Performing Arts
• Art Festivals
• Japanese Anime and Comics
• Japanese Ceramics
• Local Crafts

• Scenic Night Views
• Natural Wonders
• Theme Parks
• Samurai & Ninja
• Iconic Architecture

• Wellness Travel in Japan
• Japanese Ryokan Guide
• A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
• Relaxation in Japan
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

• Experiences in Japan
• Enjoy my Japan
• National Parks
• Japan's Local Treasures
• Japan Heritage
• Snow Like No Other
• Wonder Around Japan

• Visa Information
• Getting to Japan
• Airport Access
• COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan
• Anime Tourism
• Countryside Stays
• Accessible Tourism
• Hokkaido Great Outdoors
• Scenic World Heritage in Tohoku
• Shikoku’s Nature and Traditions
• Southern Kyushu by Rail

• Traveling by Rail
• How to Travel by Train and Bus
• JR Rail Passes
• Scenic Railways
• Renting a Car
• Sustainable Travel in Japan
• Travel Brochures
• Useful Apps
• Online Reservation Sites
• Eco-friendly Accommodation
• Luxury Accommodations
• Traveling With a Disability
• Hands-free Travel
• How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
• Volunteer Guides
• Tourist Information Center

• Japanese Manners
• Spring in Japan
• Summer in Japan
• Autumn in Japan
• Winter in Japan
• Cherry Blossom Forecast
• Autumn Leaves Forecast

• Japan Visitor Hotline
• Travel Insurance in Japan
• Japan Safe Travel Information
• Accessibility in Japan
• Vegetarian Guide
• Muslim Travelers
• Safety Tips

• News from JNTO
• US Partner News
• Interesting Articles
• Press Release
• Newsletter Archives
• Trade Newsletter
• Tender Notice

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

Road Trips and Van Life in Japan

A guide to planning your dream japan road trip.

Do you like moving at your own pace without worrying about bus and train schedules? Would you rather focus on the journey and find off-the-beaten-path gems as you go? If so, a road trip might be the best way for you to enjoy Japan, and with a little planning and research, it’s easy to have your own incredible car or van life experience! In fact, several factors—such as great public safety, good roads, and availability of clean and safe roadside stations ( Michi-no-Eki in Japanese) and public baths—actually make Japan a fantastic destination for this kind of travel. Here are some details on how to plan a road trip around Japan, from logistics to recommended destinations.

The first step is to make sure you can legally drive in Japan. For this, you need an International Driving Permit, or IDP for short. Fortunately, if you have a valid American license, AAA can issue you one for $20 in as little as half an hour in-office or a few weeks by mail, and all you need is a short application form and 2 photo IDs. This must be done before you leave for Japan.

The next step is to rent a vehicle . There are a variety of rental agencies in Japan, with some of the largest being Nissan Rent a Car, Times Car Rental, Nippon Rent-a-Car, Toyota Rent-A-Car, NICONICO RENT A CAR, JR (Japan Railways) Rent-A-Car, and Japan Campingcar Rental Center. It is worth checking their websites as well as searching aggregate websites for pricing and deals. In general, prices range from 5,000-31,000 yen per 24 hours.

Unlike the United States, driving in Japan is on the left and you will want to familiarize yourself with road signs and regulations before beginning your trip. Many rules such as yielding to pedestrians and using seatbelts are universal, but it is worth noting that there is a zero-tolerance policy towards alcohol (you cannot drive after even a single drink), so plan accordingly. Parking may be challenging in some areas, and you generally cannot park along streets. If you need to park temporarily while asking for directions or checking your map, always use your hazard lights.

Expressways in Japan have tolls, which can generally be paid by cash. However, it is a good idea to get an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card if possible. This allows you to move swiftly through toll booths (generally, there will be an ETC-only lane) and also provides a small discount. In addition, there are some expressway entrances which are ETC only. Google maps will generally not distinguish these from regular expressway entrances. If you arrive at one without an ETC card, you will not be able to enter, which can cause inconvenience. Many car rental agencies will also rent you ETC cards, but make sure to request it in advance and book a car with an ETC on-board unit. You will then settle your toll payments with the company when you return your vehicle. There are also region-specific expressway passes which offer more attractive rates for visitors, so it is worth looking into these if you will be traveling primarily in one area.

Once you have sorted out the logistics of your car rental and familiarized yourself with the rules of the road, it’s time to pick your destinations.

Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park , Kagoshima

Located in the south of Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands, Kirishima has an air of mystery and seclusion, with gorgeous rocky coastlines, lush forests, and an active volcano creating a unique ecosystem. Relax in heated sand along the beautiful coastline, where you can sometimes spot dolphins. In the more mountainous northern area of the park, visit Kirishima Onsen , a volcanic hot spring resort fed by twelve different sources. This makes for distinctive baths, some sulphuric, some containing volcanic mud, and some which are naturally fizzy. A soak will soothe sore joints and leave your skin feeling silky, making it a great way to wrap up a day of hiking in the surrounding mountains. There are excellent day-use baths as well as traditional ryokan inns for a luxurious overnight stay complete with breakfast and dinner.

The Kirishima mountains offer a variety of walks and hikes, including incredible landscapes such as Mt. Karakuni , a volcanic crater and the tallest mountain in the range at over 5,500 feet. Excellent tent-camping and cabin facilities are available, which is ideal if exploring the area by car. From Fukuoka Airport, it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive to Kirishima. For more ambitious road trippers, rent a car from Osaka Airport and drive 10 hours and 30 minutes, or from Narita airport and drive 16 hours and 17 minutes. Both routes are filled with beautiful scenery and ample sightseeing destinations to stop and stay the night along the way.

Furano , Hokkaido

Located in the heart of Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, Furano is nicknamed ‘the navel town’ due to its location—and even boasts a humorous festival inspired by the name! A rental car is the best way to explore all the remote nature Hokkaido has to offer, and Furano is the perfect base, characterized by wide, rolling hills and straight roads that are easy to drive. The town is a major cultivator of lavender, and in summer, the vast purple fields set against a backdrop of distant mountains are a beautiful attraction.

Other flowers, such as brilliant red poppies and yellow sunflowers, are also cultivated in Furano, leading the National Route 237 which passes through the town to be nicknamed ‘The Flower Road’. Furano also produces its own wine. A winery offering free tastings overlooks the town, and a wine festival is held in September. In winter, the area is a popular destination for skiing.

Oirase Gorge , Tohoku

Oirase Gorge is located in the northernmost part of Japan’s main island, on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures. The Tohoku region has fantastic nature and many old-fashioned hot springs and is an excellent area to explore by car or RV. Oirase Gorge is remote, pristine, and the perfect destination for hiking, cycling, and forest bathing. The 8.69-mile path in Oirase Gorge winds along a stream through forests of beech, oak, maple, and cedar. The deciduous woodland is a wonderful place to experience fall foliage in October, and it is also beautifully lush in summer.

Winter is snowy, and some of the waterfalls freeze. If you cycle the trail, you can rent a bike at one end and drop it off at the other. The trail ends at Lake Towada where you can enjoy spectacular scenery, sightseeing cruises, fishing, or relaxing and eating local food like red salmon and smelt. After visiting Oirase Stream, check out Tsuta Onsen with its 1,000-year history or Sangayu Onsen, which is known for its therapeutic waters.

There are a huge number of amazing destinations we haven’t covered here, so we invite you to explore online and start planning your dream road trip in Japan. Regardless of where you go, you’re sure to enjoy breathtaking natural scenery, hidden hot springs, and quaint villages away from the usual tourist crowds, allowing you to experience Japan like a local.

• Culture (39)
• Local Guides (32)
• Things to do (22)
• Traditional (21)
• Articles (19)
• Outdoor (15)
• Food & drink (14)
• City life (7)
• Adventure (5)
• Cuisine (2)
• Consumer (2)
• Previous Article
• Back to Overview
• Next Article
• JNTO US Blog

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

Japan Road Trip Adventures: Discover 4 Must-Visit Destinations by Car

by Flip Japan Guide | Jan 6, 2022 | Blogs , Japan Travel | 0 comments

Many folks automatically link Japan with its bullet trains and fantastic public transport. Indeed, Japan boasts incredible public transport, making it a breeze to zip around the country.

However, there’s a whole other side to exploring Japan that demands a set of wheels – the Japan road trip experience. If you’re keen on camping or uncovering quaint towns, having your own wheels is key, especially when venturing into the more remote prefectures like Aomori. You’ll stumble upon numerous breathtaking road trips adorned with picturesque bridges and coastlines. So, here are four road trips across Japan that you absolutely must embark on during your visit.

Find out more about Japan travel here: shopping in Japan , the best souvenirs to buy in Japan , nature in Japan , camping in Japan , overnight & day trips from Tokyo , top museums to visit in Tokyo , local neighbourhoods in Tokyo , and beaches near Tokyo .

Table of Contents

Four Unforgettable Japan Road Trip Destinations

Furano in hokkaido.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost large island, encompasses an area of approximately 83,456 square kilometers. Despite its vastness, Hokkaido’s population density is significantly lower compared to other regions of Japan, with around 5.3 million inhabitants. Due to its location and relatively sparse population, Hokkaido is often less frequented by tourists than other parts of the country. However, this island boasts an abundance of natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and stunning landscapes.

The road infrastructure in Hokkaido is well-developed, providing easy access to various scenic spots and attractions. One of the most famous driving routes in Hokkaido is the “ Roller Coaster Road ” in Furano, a 2.5 km stretch of winding road known for its undulating terrain, resembling the ups and downs of a roller coaster ride. This road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, especially during the blooming season when fields of lavender and other flowers carpet the landscape.

In addition to the Roller Coaster Road, Hokkaido is home to numerous other picturesque driving routes, such as the “Patchwork Road” near Biei. This area is renowned for its patchwork-like landscape, created by alternating fields of colorful crops such as potatoes, wheat, and flowers. The Patchwork Road offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Hokkaido while driving through a mosaic of vibrant farmland.

Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima

Fukushima, a prefecture located in the Tohoku region of Japan, covers an area of approximately 13,783 square kilometers. Despite its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Fukushima has faced challenges in overcoming the negative perception stemming from the 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster. However, efforts have been made to promote the region’s scenic attractions and revive tourism, highlighting Fukushima’s diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.

One of the standout driving destinations in Fukushima is the “Bandai-Azuma Skyline,” a scenic mountain road that traverses the border between Fukushima and Yamagata prefectures. This winding road offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes, particularly during the autumn months when the foliage bursts into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Additionally, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline is renowned for its picturesque snowscapes in winter, attracting visitors seeking snowy adventures and panoramic vistas.

Venus Line in Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, situated in the Chubu region of Japan, covers an area of approximately 13,585 square kilometers. Known for its mountainous terrain and rich cultural heritage, Nagano is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The prefecture is home to several notable landmarks, including Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s oldest and most well-preserved castles.

The “Venus Line” in Nagano Prefecture is a scenic driving route that winds through the Japanese Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear rivers. Stretching for approximately 70 kilometers, the Venus Line is a popular destination for leisurely drives, motorcycle tours, and cycling adventures. Along the route, visitors can enjoy stops at picturesque villages, hot springs resorts, and hiking trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Nagano Prefecture.

Tsunoshima Bridge in Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Prefecture, located in the Chugoku region of Japan, encompasses an area of approximately 6,112 square kilometers. Despite its relatively small size, Yamaguchi boasts a diverse range of attractions, including historical sites, natural wonders, and culinary delights. The prefecture is known for its scenic coastline, mountainous landscapes, and traditional culture, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travellers.

Tsunoshima Bridge, one of Yamaguchi’s most iconic landmarks, spans approximately 1,780 meters and connects the mainland to Tsunoshima Island. Completed in 2000, the bridge offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and has become a symbol of Yamaguchi’s natural beauty and engineering prowess. Tsunoshima Island itself is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and panoramic vistas, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photography enthusiasts alike.

Renting a Car for Your Japan Road Trip

Now that you’ve had a glimpse of what Japan has in store, it’s time to consider a Japan road trip and rent a car.

Renting a car in Japan is a straightforward and safe process. To do so, you must be 18 or older and hold an international driver’s permit. These permits need to be obtained in your home country and are valid for a year in Japan. However, some countries, such as Germany, France, and Taiwan, permit the use of officially translated driver’s licenses instead. These translations can be acquired from a Japanese Embassy or the Japan Automobile Federation. Conversely, citizens of countries like the US must possess an actual Japanese driver’s license to rent a car.

Japan boasts numerous major rental car services, including Nippon Rentacar, Toyota Rentacar, and Times Car Rental. Most of these companies offer English reservations, which can be made either online or by phone. Typically, rates for renting a mid-sized car hover around 10,000 yen or approximately $100 per day. This price often includes insurance coverage and unlimited mileage.

Additionally, most rentals are equipped with built-in GPS systems, facilitating easy navigation. Road signs are usually displayed in both English and Japanese, and Japan’s well-maintained roads ensure smooth journeys. Drivers in Japan adhere to traffic laws and drive safely, making the streets easy to navigate, complete with clear markings for crosswalks and bike lanes. Moreover, most rental cars come with a GPS system, and Google Maps is readily available for added convenience.

Your Japan Road Trip Adventure Awaits!

As you set out to discover Japan by car, a thrilling road trip adventure beckons! From the tranquil countryside of Hokkaido to the idyllic coastlines of Yamaguchi, each stretch of road unveils new wonders waiting to be explored.

With the simplicity of renting a car in Japan, complemented by user-friendly English navigation systems and clearly marked roads, your journey becomes more than just a mode of transportation – it becomes a seamless voyage of discovery.

So, why not stray from the usual routes, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Japanese culture, and create memories to cherish? Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cityscapes or craving the serenity of rural vistas, Japan invites you with open arms and endless opportunities.

Prepare to hit the road, embrace the unexpected, and let the adventure unfold as you uncover the beauty and allure of Japan, one scenic drive at a time. Your road trip adventure is on the horizon – are you ready to seize it?

Stay tuned for more information about Japan travel , Japanese culture , moving to Japan , living in Japan , Japanese language, and more. 

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• The Best Japan Internet Access Options: Budget SIM Card Versus Pocket WiFi
• 29 Best Summer Destinations in Japan
• Top Places to Visit in Japan in June: Revealing 15 Must-See Destinations
• One Night in Tokyo: Insider Tips for an Epic Mini Adventure
• 17 Spine-Chilling Haunted Places in Japan to Discover

Recent Comments

• Tere Bellido on Autumn in Japan: 60+ Spots to Enjoy Autumn Leaves (Koyo) from September to December
• Vijay Singh on Ultimate guide to Zamami Island in Okinawa: What to do and hidden gems
• Lori on Overnight & Weekend Trip Ideas from Tokyo
• Robie on How much does it cost to live in Japan? You might be surprised
• Sidney Johnson on How much does it cost to live in Japan? You might be surprised

Cycling Japan

“Cycling in Japan is an experience like no other: cycling routes that snake through valleys and up volcanoes, hot springs you can soak in, unforgettable ryokan hotels, historic shrines, warm hospitality, futuristic cities and delicious food.

Experiencing Japan by bike is an experience you won’t forget.”

Japan has been on our “absolutely must-visit” list for many years, but since we haven’t yet been able to experience it ourselves, we’ve enlisted the help of Rob from Bike Tour Japan (who we quote above).

Rob is originally from Syracuse, New York and moved to Japan in 2014. He started Bike Tour Japan in 2017 with the aim of creating cycling tours of Japan that share the best of the country’s riding and off the beaten track places. His passion for all things Japan and cycling, makes him the perfect person to help us with this guide.

Fancy cycling Japan?

If you’ve ever wondered about a cycling holiday in Japan, you’re in for a treat.

Below Rob shares tons of information on everything from the best regions and cycling routes in Japan to information on bike hotels and bike rental in Japan. Enjoy!

Looking for information on the Shimanami Kaido cycle route? Read our article here .

Why should cyclists visit Japan?

Japan is known by most for its bustling city life and dense urban areas, unique culture, and delicious traditional foods.

But for those wanting to cycle around Japan, a different side of the country awaits just beyond the tourist centres of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Get two hours away from the city, and you’ll find beautifully paved roads through stunning forests. Cycling through Japan lets riders explore twisting roads that climb up and over volcanoes, chat with locals in traditional villages, and finish off each day at a luxury ryokan hotel with onsen hot spring baths. Plus, there are car free river paths and a full range of routes to suit all levels, from gentle valleys to epic 2,000m+ gains.

In my opinion, Japan is home to all the perfect ingredients for an amazing cycling holiday. Every person who has joined us on a tour has left with unforgettable memories.

Japan’s cycling routes

Geography of japan, big cities, quiet countryside.

Over 80% of Japan is uninhabitable mountainous terrain, making its cities some of the most densely populated in the world.

On the flipside of this, most of the 80% of Japan that isn’t inhabited is gorgeous wilderness, criss-crossed with excellent roads just ready to be explored.

When you fly into Japan on a clear day, you can see just how huge the mountains are! Most of Japan is formed by volcanoes, many well over 2,000m tall, climbing up from sea level. And, while Mt Fuji receives all of the attention as the tallest peak in Japan, the best roads in Japan are in the centre of the country (and you can get awesome views of Fuji from Kita-Kanto and the Nagano Highlands – more on those below ).

Japan’s highest paved road, for example, is a beautiful one that climbs up a volcano in Nagano Prefecture, topping at just over 2,700m above sea level. If you’re a road cyclist that loves to climb, you’re going to love Japan!

Cities v mountains

Basing yourself in a small city or town outside of Tokyo allows for many opportunities to explore a different side of Japan with direct access to nature.

Just take a direct train north and east of the capital city, and you’ll find a variety of amazing scenery and cultural experiences without the bustling city streets of Tokyo. Our top recommendations for small cities that are easy to reach from Tokyo include: Kiryu, Ashikaga, and Nikko. They’re all in the Kita Kanto region (more on that below ).

What are the roads like in Japan?

Kids cycle in japan.

In general, cycling in Japan is part of the culture; it’s a way of life for many locals in suburban and rural Japan. Outside of the cities, nearly every kid and young adult from 10 years+ rides their bike to school. This means most Japanese people are, or have been, cyclists since childhood. Motorists are very familiar with seeing children on bikes everyday, and their courteous driving reflects this.

Courteous drivers

Japanese drivers are notorious around the world for being cautious rule followers. Road rage and aggressive driving are virtually non-existent in Japan, and drivers tend to drive at the speed limit, which is quite low in the countryside, around 30-50kph.

Road surfaces

Road surfaces in Japan are often an exact indicator of the amount of traffic a road receives. Most people in Japan drive just a handful of main roads in a town, leaving many smaller roads with great road surfaces and no traffic. What’s more, Japan is full of river valleys, many of which have bicycle lanes and beautifully-built relatively flat pedestrian and bike paths lining each side.

Route planning

When most drivers choose a route in Japan, they follow a GPS, so many end up on the same roads. So for cyclists planning cycling routes through Japan, my biggest piece of advice is don’t follow Google Maps driving directions unless you want cars passing you all day.

Instead, look at the main road, and look for parallel smaller roads, or better yet, rivers with river paths. Plan your route around these small roads and river paths, especially when in dense city areas. If you are riding out in the countryside, you can be more lax about being on major roads. Also checking the roads in Google Street View will give you a good sense of the traffic to expect through your route.

What are the best regions of Japan for cyclists

Japan is a land of huge variety in scenery, terrain, and climate. I think you find some of the best cycling in Japan in these three regions. The best one for you will depend on what kind of cycling you’re after and how important the weather and other tourist attractions are to you.

• Kita Kanto region – Japan’s sunbelt and cycling hub near Tokyo
• Setouchi Inland Sea – Home to the Shimanami Kaido bikeway, citrus and seafood, and Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest and most famous hot-spring baths in Japan
• Nagano Highlands region – Home to the highest roads in Japan

Map showing the Kita Kanto region in purple, the Setouchi Sea region in green and Nagano Highlands region in yellow

“The sunbelt and cycling hub close to Tokyo”

Kita Kanto, meaning “North Kanto” is a region in the upper northwest corner of the Kanto Plains. Stretching northwest out of Tokyo, the Kanto Plains are considered the main food production zone in Japan. In ancient times, it was said that he who ruled Kanto ruled Japan.

This region is unique thanks to its proximity to Tokyo, just 1-2hrs by train, making for an easy trip from the nation’s capital. Nikko National Park is home to stunning untouched wilderness, alpine lakes, and massive shrines dedicated to the most famous Shogun in Japan, Ieyasu Tokugawa. From Nikko, you can reach the historical silk mills of Kiryu as well as Japan’s first ever school in Ashikaga. In between these regions are an endless string of beautiful valleys, river paths, mountains, and rindo (forest roads) connecting the region, making it perfect for exploring by bicycle.

In the western corner sits two massive stratovolcanoes: Mt Akagi and Mt Haruna. With summits over 1,500m and 1,000m respectively, both volcanoes have beautiful winding roads up to their caldera lakes. Below these towering mountains sits two of Japan’s largest rivers: the Tone River and Watarase River, both with beautiful car-free cycling paths winding through the small towns and cities they connect.

This region is famous for its fresh grown local veggies, Ayu sweetfish, wagyu beef, joshu pork, and shiitake and matsutake mushrooms. If you have never had matsutake mushroom soup, this is a must for anyone visiting the region in the Fall. A simple soup made from just matsutake mushrooms, daikon radish, mitsuba leaf, and a local breed of the green citrus called yuzu, it is a warm hearty broth that captures the essence of Fall in the mountains of central Japan.

Lastly, this region is known for its sun, something we all can appreciate when on a cycling trip. While the rest of Japan averages the same average sunlight as London (and about 4x as much rain!), the Kita Kanto Region is sheltered by mountains on three sides and far from the ocean enough to avoid the humidity of the sea. This means more sunny days, fewer wet days, and a much longer riding season than anywhere else in Japan.

Setouchi Inland Sea

“Home to the Shimanami Kaido, citrus and seafood, and town of Dogo Onsen”

The Setouchi Inland Sea has arguably become the most famous region for bike riding in Japan thanks to the promotion of the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route . But beyond the Kaido, there is much more to explore in the region for those with the curiosity to explore off the beaten path.

I love this region because of the beautiful teal-coloured water, the fresh local seafood, and the accessibility of the cycling routes. The Shimanami Kaido, for example, is very well marked and great for those looking to dip their toes into bike touring for the first time. Beyond the standard 70km course, there is a whole other set of roads and oceanside cafes.

I also recommend time to explore the famous hot spring resort of Dogo Onsen and the castle in Matsuyama City, just past the end of the Kaido’s end point in Imabari.

If you are hoping to catch the cherry blossoms, you can expect the pink flowers in this region to bloom earlier than the rest of Japan. And for Fall colours, we recommend coming here in early December, which ties nicely with the citrus season.

This region is very accessible to all levels of riders, and even non-riders on the Shimanami Kaido bike route.

Those looking for challenging days and good amounts of climbing will find the Kita Kanto and Nagano’s Highroads Regions a better bet.

Nagano Highlands Region

“Known as the Japanese Alps, home to the highest roads in Japan”

While many will recognise Nagano Prefecture as the host of the Winter Olympics back in 1998, it is also home to some of Japan’s highest roads. The pinnacle of these mountains is Mt Norikura, with a 2,702m summit that towers above the rest with a whopping 2,200m of gain from the city of Matsumoto below.

This climb is made all the sweeter by the fact that the final 13km are on a car free (yes you heard me, no cars allowed!) “Eco Line” with only the hourly bus to worry about.

Having done many of the big passes in Europe, such as the Stelvio, Alp D’Huez, Iseran, Isoard, etc, I have to say this car free climb to the sky is really one of a kind.

But even beyond Mt Norikura, there are also many other amazing summits topping over 2,000m above sea in the area. My personal favorite is the Utsukushigahara Highlands, or the Venus Line. But due to the height of the region and heavier precipitation, much like the high passes in Europe, the season is much shorter, often just mid July to the end of October.

This can make finding the perfect time to cycle in this region a delicate balancing act with Japan’s rainy season (which runs from June through September).

A final note on cycling in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is not in our top 3 best places in Japan for cycling. While Hokkaido can be a great place to visit, the season is quite short and is limited to the peak summer months. While it’s less wet than Honshu, you can still expect roughly 1 out of 3 days to be rainy and cold. This is in contrast with the Kita Kanto Region in spring and fall which averages one day of rain a week.

The scenery in Hokkaido is beautiful! However, between sights most of the scenery can be long straight roads with mostly crop fields to get between areas. So for riders looking to do less than 100km/day it can be quite repetitive. Whereas in Kita Kanto, Setouchi, or Nagano areas you can have vastly different microclimates and scenery within 50km of riding.

There is a reason that Hokkaido is a favorite for bikepacking; the long distances and vast wilderness is more conducive to camping and bikepacking trips than hotel-based day rides and bike tours.

Like Rob to show you around?

He would love to help!

Rob’s passion is helping cyclists who want to explore the rural corners and best cycling roads Japan has to offer.

For more information, head to  the Bike Tour Japan website  or reach out to Rob and the team at  [email protected] .

What are the best cycling routes in Japan?

Below I share some of my favourite Japanese cycling routes in the regions identified above.

Kita Kanto region

Hard – akagi.

GPX Download Terms of use reminder

Mount Akagi is the centerpiece of the Kita Kanto skyline. A 1,800m tall stratovolcano that looks more like a mountain range than a single mountain, Akagi erupted some 30,000 years ago. This created the jagged top and two caldera lakes you see today.

The best cycling route is to take the small old road up the southeast side where cars seldom drive. Then, into the caldera for a lap around the lake and a visit to the Akagi Jinja Shrine atop the lake. Finally, fly down the pristine two lane wide road for over 1,400m of ripping descent!

It’s not every day you can say you climbed up into a volcano, and Mount Akagi is the best place to do this by bike.

Easy – Kiryu Ashikaga Loop

For those looking for a more relaxing ride in Japan, the Kiryu-Ashikaga loop is a classic that any level of cyclist can enjoy.

Starting from Kiryu City, the loop takes you out of town to the Lake Umeda Recreation Area. Then, over the Nagaishi-Touge (tr Long Rock Pass) for a beautiful view of the valley below.

Then, fly down into Ashikaga City, where you can grab lunch, see Japan’s first school, and stroll through the beautiful central Bannaji Temple in town.

Finally, hop on the car-free Watarase River Cycling Road back to Kiryu to check out the local silk mills. All along the way, there are options for delicious local udon and soba, as well as more international food if you prefer!

Hard – Extended Shimanami Kaido cycling road

For those looking to go beyond the Kaido’s standard route ( below ), our favourite route wiggles around each of the islands to hit the best sights on each one.

While it covers much more distance, exploring the islands by bike is a lot of fun and it is possible to break this into multiple days as well and stay a few nights on the islands.

Things you’ll see on the way include far-reaching views from Muku Bay Observation area, the Kousanji Temple complex, the sandy Hata Okiura Beach and the huge ship building works at Aiesu Shipyard.

If you’re interested, don’t miss our in-depth article on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route .

Easy – Classic Shimanami Kaido

Don’t fix what ain’t broken. For those looking for an easy route in the Setouchi Sea area, the classic 70km Shimanami Kaido Route is a great day trip option.

As Japan’s most famous cycling course, it is well-labelled and designed with plenty of infrastructure to help riders along the way.

You’ll find sea views, small fishing towns, citrus groves, and the longest suspension bridge in Japan. However be aware that it’s not all sandy shores as, due to the typhoon season each year, the shorelines are usually protected with concrete reinforcements.

There’s more on bike hire for the Shimanami Kaido  below .

Also read our article on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route .

Hard – Norikura

There are few places in the world that you can climb for over 50km and gain more than 2,200m.

That is exactly what you’ll find on Mount Norikura, a huge stratovocano surrounded by high peaks.

Beyond that, the final 13 kilometres (and 900m of climbing) are car free!

As the tree line recedes, a landscape of volcanic rocks and sweeping views from the top of Japan’s Alps awaits.

Easier – Utsukushigahara

While not much easier than Norikura (this is the highroads region after all!), my personal favourite climb in the area is the Utsukushigahara.

A mouthful for non-Japanese speakers, its name translates into “The Beautiful Highlands”, and it really lives up to the name.

Summiting just over 2,000m above sea, this high grassland plateau sits directly east of the high peaks of Nagano. Once you reach the ridge, the final 7km of road seemingly dangles off massive cliffs that drop to the city of Matsumoto below, giving stunning views of the high alps across the valley.

Do I need a guide to do a cycling tour in Japan?

Cycle touring comes in so many different flavours, and each style is unique and valid. I love a great bike-packing trip just as much as I love a great organised tour – they just fulfil different desires and comforts.

When exploring Japan by bicycle, there are lots of ways to have a great time on a self-organised tour, and I have done many of these myself and with friends over the years, exploring different corners of Japan.

Organised cycling tours of Japan aren’t always necessary

For example, you really don’t need a guide for a route like the Shimanami Kaido as the route is impeccably marked out for you. Couple that with decent rental bike options at both ends, many lodges listed on western booking sites, and you can have a smooth and fun trip.

That said, for those looking to explore beyond these well-marked paths, I think there is a lot of value in booking a guided or self-guided cycling tour of Japan.

Advantages of an organised bike trip to Japan

One of the main things I hear from those that organise their own bike tours in Japan is about the heavy traffic they encountered while on their tour. Funnily enough, the exact opposite is said in our guests’ reviews for our trips. In fact, one guest mentioned how they “couldn’t believe we rode for 4 hours through amazing scenery and saw monkeys, deer, kamoshika, and just two cars!?”

Besides knowing that you are getting top-notch routes that are optimised for maximum enjoyment while on the bike, you are also getting the top picks of the area when it comes to food, hotels, hot springs, and sights to see.

For me, this is where a lot of value comes in booking a high-quality tour, guided or self-guided. Choosing an accredited tour company optimises your enjoyment of the limited time you have in Japan. Why ride in high traffic, shuttle between locations, depend on scouring the internet for the best restaurant option, or waste time doing chores such as laundry and snack shopping, when this can all be taken care of by good trip designers?

When it comes to guided tours, it really is a chance to spend the most time doing what you love and letting the guides take care of “travel chores”. Our team takes care of navigation, carrying luggage and extra layers, doing the laundry so you have a fresh pair of bibs for each day’s ride, cleaning and maintaining the bikes, and setting up scrumptious smorgasbords of Japanese treats and fresh fruit at the top of climbs. For those looking to focus on cycling, a guided tour is really the best way to make the most of it and soak it all in.

Looking for a cycling tour in Japan?

Get in touch with Bike Tour Japan ; they would love to help you plan your trip.

Bike Tour Japan is run by Rob, a longtime resident of Japan and the brains behind this guide you’re reading. He loves to help guests explore Japan’s impressive landscapes on the best cycling roads.

For more information, head to the Bike Tour Japan website or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

Key road cycling events in Japan

Hill climbs in japan.

Japan is home to a large bustling Hill Climb Race Series. Here, hill climbs are more like mountain and volcano climbs than hills, with most gaining over 1,000m! Better yet, they are all mass start events. That means that 3-5,000 cyclists, at the sound of the horn, will begin racing up a massive volcano. Sounds fun huh?

There are five main races each year, and two of the big ones are right near us in Kita Kanto: Mt Akagi (in September) and Mt Haruna (in May). Along with them, Mt Norikura, the highest road, has one, as does the Subaru Line on Mt Fuji (in June). Take a look at the official websites and you can see how to sign up!

Tour de Noto

On the Tour de Noto, riders cover 400km of roads on the Northern Coast of Japan in just three days. Starting from Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture, cyclists go north to Wajima, around the peninsula to the island of Notojima, before heading south to the finish line.

We recommend that riders spend at least a week in this region to soak in the cultural and culinary experiences to be found in the small towns of Wajima, Anamizu, and Himi. We also suggest spending an extra night or two in both Wajima and Kanazawa, two unique communities that are extremely proud of their long history of traditional sea-inspired foods, crafts, and architecture.

Japan Cup Cycling Race

Besides these amateur races, Japan also hosts the Japan Cup Cycling Race each year at the road race course in Kita Kanto (a small loop in Utsunomia, in the east side of Kita Kanto region –  info here ) as well as in Utsunomiya City. In fact, the Bridgestone Cycling Team is based out of Utsunomiya, and spends much of their time training in the same mountains we ride in the Kita Kanto Region.

Best accommodation for cyclists

Bike hotels that cater specifically to cyclists do exist in Japan, but they tend to be in the more well-known spots for tourists, such as the Setouchi Sea.

For riders who want to explore beyond, we recommend finding accommodation at minshuku (guesthouses) or ryokan (traditional Japanese hotels). Ryokans are our favourite places to stay!

I love the Japanese ryokan experience. If you have never stayed in a ryokan, they are a Japanese traditional hotel most similar to a B&B in the west. Often, you will have breakfast and dinner prepared on site, and the best of these ryokan have world class chefs that go out of their way to share the freshest local flavours and cuisines.

The ryokan experience also comes with artfully-crafted onsen hot spring baths to soak your tired legs after a long day in the saddle. After each day’s ride and soak, don your traditional yukata robe & slippers, and enjoy the zen of a beautiful Japanese room. This is the best way to step away from the busy modern world and immerse yourself into a traditional and truly serene experience each night!

There are lots of types of Ryokan, from small hotels with as little as six rooms, to larger ones that are more similar to traditional hotels, but with Japanese flair.

Check the rules before you stay

When cycling, most ryokan and hotels are happy to have cyclists stay, but calling ahead and confirming their rules with bikes is important. Many hotels in Japan are not accustomed to holding bikes inside, so many will assume you will leave your bike in the parking area, with the cars. So, if you want to be able to bring your steed in with you, it is best to confirm before booking.

As long as you are willing to wipe down your frame and wheels, most hotels are very understanding. Ask politely, and most staff will permit you to keep your bicycle in your room; if your room is tatami, they will likely put your bicycle inside a locked luggage storage area. (For those not familiar with “tatami”, it means straw mat floor. Here is some info on them.)

As for staying at ryokan, most will have you change out of your shoes at the door and into slippers inside.

There are also two things some guests will want to watch for before booking with ryokans:

Futon bedding: Most traditional ryokans use futon bedding, which is laid on tatami floor. Multiple futons can be stacked to make a softer bed feel if that’s your preference.

Bath: Most traditional ryokan will have two ofuro, or public baths, one for each gender. These are large rooms, often crafted of fine woods or stone with showers along the walls and one or more large baths. Expect to be naked.

In my opinion, these two aspects of ryokan stays are unique opportunities to live like the locals and fully experience Japanese culture! If this is not something you are interested in though, we recommend searching for western-style hotels or checking with the ryokan to see if they have western amenities before booking.

Face masks: Though masks have never been mandated in Japan, mask-wearing is still quite common in public spaces. Recently, the government has encouraged citizens to not wear masks while outdoors, and citizens are slowly beginning to shift their behavior. Cyclists in Japan don’t need to worry about wearing a mask while on the bike. However, some riders still choose to wear a mask indoors in order to blend in. In our personal experience, most shop-owners don’t mind either way and the ones who want you to wear a mask will politely ask you to do so. When travelling in Japan, we recommend carrying a mask or a buff for these situations.

Favourite ryokans for cyclists

In the regions mentioned, my favourite ryokans are

Hoshi no Yado, Kita Kanto region – central to Nikko town. Used to cyclists. English speaking staff with amazing food. Great launch point for amazing rides.

U2, Setouchi Sea – a town centre bike hotel that acts as the hub for visiting cyclists in Onomichi, and a great place to meet other riders. There’s also a bike shop inside the buliding.

Yumoto Ya, Nagano region – traditional Ryokan where the hot spring baths have sweeping views of the Japanese Alps. Great meals too. Located just outside town/castle, quiet but town is just a short bike ride away.

Bike rental in Japan

Japanese cities and towns have lots of great places for bike hire, as does the Shimanami Kaido cycle way.

That said, if you plan to ride outside of the main cities or the Kaido, you are best off hiring while within the city and taking the bike out, as most hires will not deliver beyond the town/cities. This will also ensure you get the quality road bikes you want without having a degree in Japanese!

Be aware that hire bikes will be set up “UK style” Left is rear, right is front for brakes. They will not switch this for you at any shops that I am aware of.

Shimanami Kaido bike rental

Most rentals around the Shimanami Kaido are mid to low-end hybrid or road bikes, so if you are looking to rent a high-end road bike, we recommend renting one from Tokyo or Osaka.

Japan bike shops

Shimano is King. Japan is Shimano-land, and if you have Shimano parts on your bike, they can be easily repaired and replaced at most shops. If you have Sram or Campy, most parts must be ordered.

Almost every town in Japan has a bike shop, but most shops service a mix of simple town bikes, hybrids, and road bikes. So if there is something proprietary about your bike it is best to bring extras just in case.

Want to find the real Japan?

Get in touch with Rob and the team at   Bike Tour Japan . They would love to help you plan your trip.

Rob is an American cyclist who has lived in Japan for many years. He wrote this guide you’re reading and knows all the best places for cyclists visiting Japan.

Check out his website at Bike Tour Japan or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

When to visit

Japan has many microclimates and you will need to consider the weather for each unique region you plan to visit. We have run tours where guests can go skiing one day, and the next day, we are in short sleeves cycling in 25’c sunny weather just 100km away.

As regards my favourite regions, generally speaking,

• Kita Kanto region is best from March to mid-June and September to early December.
• Setouchi is best early March to May and November to mid-December. 
• The Mountains of Nagano are the most limited season: September to October.

Beyond this, most of Japan’s summer is hot, humid, and wet from mid-June to the end of July. This is called Tsuyu, or the first rainy season. After this, August is typically drier but extremely hot and still very humid. Then in late August/early September, the typhoon season comes in, bringing big rainstorms weekly from the south.

This is another reason we love cycling the Kita Kanto region, the mountains to its west protect from the Sea of Japan’s rain and snow, and the southern mountains protect it from typhoons. Its distance from the sea also protects it from the Pacific Ocean’s humidity.

Lastly, for Hokkaido in the great north, the best season is when the rest of Japan is hot, in August. Though June to the end of September is generally a good time, much of Hokkaido can still be quite wet over the summer, with rainy and cloudy days not uncommon for half of each week. Note that Hokkaido is a different island that sits north of Honshu, it’s completely separated from the main island of Honshu, which includes Nagano, Gunma, Tochigi. We usually don’t recommend road cycling in Hokkaido, but it is a commonly-asked and searched place.

Road rules in Japan

It’s vital to understand the traffic laws, and obey all signals when out riding. You’ll find some pointers below. Some are Japan specific, some are general good practice.

• Ride on the left side of the road and the left side of the lane. Look out for the infamous ‘drift-right’ that is common for those from countries who usually ride/drive on the right side of the road!
• When you are at a light you must stop and wait for the signal to change. Japan has no ‘right on red’ (or in their case ‘left on red’) law.
• Bikes and pedestrians have the right of way, and most drivers are respectful to cyclists on the road. However, if you see that traffic is building up behind you, return drivers’ courtesy, and pull off for a moment to let traffic pass.
• Familiarise yourself with  Japan’s traffic signs .
• Wear a helmet.
• Always ride in the direction of traffic.
• Do not wear headphones or earphones while riding.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Communicate with those around you with your hands/arms well in advance, for example “right turn”, “left turn”, “slowing”, “stopping”, “car up”, “car back”.
• Make eye contact with motorists when possible.
• Avoid erratic movements on the bike. Keeping a straight line is the best way for drivers to predict what you’re going to do.
• Always be aware of weather and road conditions, and how this may affect your ability to stop or turn the bike. Give yourself double braking time and distance in wet conditions. 

Tips for planning a Japan cycling trip

When planning a cycling trip to Japan, it is best to consider what you are looking for. There really is so much variety in this country that you can spend a week or two and only scratch the surface of its geography, food, and culture.

Japan is really well set up for cycling in many ways, but it is not always obvious for visitors just how much cycling infrastructure and how many quiet roads there are.

If you are looking for an easy ride, the Shimanami Kaido is great and anyone can figure it out on their own. If you want to hit the big mountains or get lost in the wilds of the countryside, it will take some research, Japanese language skills, or a guide to really get the most out of that side of Japan. And if you want to just connect A to B by bike, I highly recommend planning your route without Google Maps.

How fit you need to be to cycle Japan

Japan is very mountainous and if you want to get a taste of those mountains, it’ll help if you’re fit. We can offer guests electric road bike hire – and of course we can tailor trips to include flat river routes where possible, but a base level of fitness will certainly help you get the most out of a trip.

Best food to buy from convenience stores

If you are cycling around Japan’s main island you are rarely more than 15km from a convenience store (they call Conbini コンビニ), where you can find a myriad of treats, food, and drinks. Even gas stations tend to be well-stocked. This is great for those on a self-guided cycling tour as you can easily stock up on snacks (we recommend tasty onigiri rice balls – the dorayaki pancake sandwiches and canned iced tea are awesome too).

Do you need to speak (some) Japanese?

While it never hurts to speak the local language, Japanese people are generally very excited to help or work with foreign tourists who come to their shops.

If you are going it alone, Google Translate can help a lot, but most chains will have picture menus or some English. That said, most of the smaller local restaurants will still have handwritten signs and menus, so your mileage may vary when you get off the beaten track. Going with a tour company will allow you to have an ambassador and easier access to understanding the local language and culture.

Surprisingly, despite being very technologically advanced, Japan is a cash-based economy. That means you need to assume you’ll be paying in cash at restaurants, markets and many shops.

7-Eleven convenience stores will accept international debit cards – and so will some department stores, hotel chains and taxi chains. But you can’t assume it will be possible, so carry cash. Theft is rare.

There are ATMs at post offices and convenience stores.

Tipping is not expected (and not really done by the Japanese themselves).

Bargaining/haggling is not done (unless you’re at a flea market).

Japanese culture

Japan is the only country in the world that still has a reigning emperor. Emperors don’t have power but they are looked up to as a symbol of the country’s traditions. The Imperial Palace in Tokyo (the home of the Emperor) is definitely worth a visit.

Japan is known for its distinctive etiquette. Here are some headline things to watch out for – but just do your best and don’t stress, you won’t be expected to know all the rules!

• Head-bowing instead of hand-shaking.
• No shoes indoors. Keep your eye out for the show rack at the entrance.
• Speak quietly at temples and shrines – and don’t worry about coming in in cycling kit (though do zip up your jersey!).
• Tea is important and regularly offered, but you don’t have to finish your cup; stop drinking when you’ve had enough.
• If you’re in an onsen or public baths, expect to bathe naked. Shower before entering the bath. Put a small towel on your head, or beside the bath, not in the bath water. Leave your large towel in the changing area. No tattoos are permitted in some onsens.
• If you’re confused, look at what the locals do and do as they do! 

How to get to Japan

Getting to Japan is largely a function of where you plan to visit on your trip.

In general, most fly into Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International Airports when riding in the Kita Kanto or Nagano Regions.

For those cycling down in the Setouchi Sea, Hiroshima International Airport is closest, with Osaka not too far away.

This site shows flight connections all over the world; it’s handy for seeing which airports in Japan you can fly to from your home airport (remember to use the city name/airport code in the search box).

Thanks to Japan Rail’s Shinkansen high speed rail, even Tokyo to Hiroshima is just 4hrs by bullet train.

From Tokyo’s Asakusa Station, you can get out to the major Kita Kanto hubs of Kiryu, Ashikaga-Shi, and Nikko train stations directly in 1-2hrs via express trains. To start the Shimanami Kaido, take trains to Onomichi Station from Hiroshima or Osaka.

Transferring your bikes

For those flying in with bikes, airports have great service at the Yamato Shipping Counter (aka Kuro Neko, “Black Cat”). From here, you can ship any luggage for very reasonable rates anywhere within Japan with quick two-day delivery. Bike boxes typically cost around 5,000yen one way.

This is by far the easiest way to travel around the cities before you begin cycling.

A big thank you to Rob for sharing such valuable insights on cycling in Japan.

Don’t know about you, but we are feeling more inspired than ever to visit!

More about Bike Tour Japan

For any cyclists who want to explore a deeper side of Japan in the rural corners of this wild country, please head to their website or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

You can also check out what Rob is up to on Strava.

They can’t wait to ride with you!

Have you cycled Japan?

Let us know how you found it; share your experiences below!

Also feel free to comment below if you’ve got any questions about planning a trip here.

Got a question for Rob?

Fill out this form and we will send it to Rob. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours wherever possible!

We will use this info to send the enquiry to Rob and/or their team. Our privacy policy explains more and here’s a reminder of our disclosure policy and terms and conditions.

Rob fell in love with cycling as a way to explore natural landscapes at the perfect pace.

After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in 2014, he spent a year working, cycling, and creating a community in Japan. Since then, Rob has returned each year to delve deeper into the secluded countryside.

Now he lives in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. It’s a funky mountain town about 1.5 hours by express train from Tokyo. It has a rich history of silk production and Japanese hipster cafes and restaurants.

Rob is driven by the desire to create unforgettable cycling trips for guests from all over the world. He loves surprising travellers with unique and immersive experiences that exist just outside the international hubs of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima.

In addition to creating intimate adventures throughout Japan, Rob also previously worked with Duvine Cycling in Northern California. When he is off the bike, he enjoys playing classical guitar, and chatting with the locals at a nearby cafe or hot-spring Onsen.

Find out more about Bike Tour Japan and check out our Strava. .

The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and take professional advice. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here .

Privacy Overview

8 favourite scenic spots on road trip routes in Japan

Drive along japan's famous roads winding through beautiful seasonal scenery.

There's nothing quite like a road trip, by car or motorcycle, to take in the magnificent scenery of Japan. From Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, join us as we drive along some of Japan's most famous and remarkable roads. There's plenty of variation to appreciate throughout Japan's 4 distinct seasons, from the vivid greenery of springtime and the sea under bright blue skies in summer, to the red and golden leaves of autumn and snow-capped peaks in wintertime. Whether travelling alone or with family or friends, you're sure to have the trip of a lifetime.

Yamanami Highway

Views of mountains and undulating mountain pass connecting yufuin and aso.

The 60-kilometre-long Prefectural Road No. 11 (Beppu Aso Ichinomiya Line) runs through the mountainous area connecting Yufuin and Aso. Nicknamed Yamanami Highway ("Mountain Range Highway"), this is the most famous driving route in Kyushu. The scenery from the pass overlooking the Kuju mountain range is exceptional. Take a break at Asahidai Observatory (once visited by Emperor Showa) to view the vast panorama from an altitude of 1,000 metres. There's also a restaurant nearby where you can enjoy local flavours. The climax is Chojahara, where Mt. Iou appears in front of you. This phenomenal scenery is unmissable. You can also enjoy a walk from Chojabaru to Tadewara Wetland.

Chirihama Nagisa Driveway

Enjoy a luxurious drive along a sandy beach beside the sea of japan.

This is a rare find: a driveway along a sandy beach next to the Sea of Japan, about a 40-minute drive north of Kanazawa. You don't need a beach buggy or anything like that, either. Ordinary cars, motorcycles, buses, and bicycles are all free to travel here. This is a really cool way to enjoy the sea breeze and spectacular ocean views. In the early evening, the bright red sunset lights up the sea, creating a fantastic atmosphere. There are souvenir shops and restaurants nearby, so after a drive, why not take a break and try some delicious seafood? There's even a soothing footbath at the roadside station here.

10 Things NOT to Do in Tokyo

10 Best Ski Resorts in Japan

Nagasaki Travel Essentials

Setouchi shimanami kaido, a seaside cycling route up there with the world's best.

This cycling route starts from Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture in Honshu and from Imabari, Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku. Now the envy of cyclists around the world, the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido experience is great for experienced cyclists, as it offers a ride that covers a minimum distance of 70 kilometres. The highlight is being able to see the scenery unique to Seto Inland Sea from the top of the bridge. If you want to break up your journey a bit, make sure you stop by the islands, beaches and restaurants for some relaxation, or take a quick excursion by boat or bus. There are many places where you can rent a bicycle, and you can return your bicycle at drop-off points along the way.

Irabu-Ohashi Bridge

The longest toll-free bridge in japan is now open.

The 3,540-metre-long Irabu Ohashi Bridge, which opened in 2015, connects Miyakojima and Irabujima in Okinawa Prefecture, making it possible to drive to enjoy island tourism that was previously limited to boats. This is the longest bridge in Japan that you can cross free of charge. The 15-minute drive gives spectacular views of the beautiful clear sea with its coral reefs as well as the bridge itself. The view from Makiyama Observatory on Irabu Island is a particular standout. This is the perfect spot overlooking the islands of Okinawa in the sea known as "Miyako Blue". Photo opps abound, so get ready to shoot.

Roads leading to heaven (Hokkaido)

These long, straight roads are symbolic of hokkaido.

Passing through Shiretoko Shari, the increasingly popular national highways 244 and 334 are also known as "roads leading to heaven". The seemingly endless straight road (actually about 27.5 kilometres long) gives a really strange feeling of driving up to heaven. The real charm of travel in Hokkaido is on full show here, with the natural environment of Shiretoko, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the setting sun on the horizon in front of you. This is a drive like no other, an unforgettable experience for all.

Take a drive from the foot of Mt. Yatsugatake through Utsukushigahara

This famous route takes in sightseeing spots in Nagano Prefecture, Tateshina Onsen, Lake Shirakaba, Kirigamine Plateau, Utsukushigahara Plateau, and more. The idyllic scenery is that of a seemingly endless mountain road. Head to the Mitsumine Observatory for a panoramic view of the mountains from high altitude. At the highest point, the Utsukushigahara Plateau, there's a 360-degree panoramic view where you'll see calves grazing on ranches. Oh and don't forget to visit Utsukushigahara Kogen Museum for some artistic exploration.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

A nature-rich mountain road running from tateyama to kurobe dam.

From Tateyama to Murodo, the highest point, this drive takes you up through Bijodaira Forest, which is lined with giant trees, and the 350-metre-high Shomyo Falls. In summertime you can enjoy stunning views of Mikurigaike, a lake in which the mountains of the Northern Alps are clearly reflected on the surface of the water, while in the wintertime there's a "Snow Corridor" with 20-metre-high snow walls running over 500 metres. From the Daikanbo mountain you can see Lake Kurobe and the Ushiro-Tateyama mountain range, and the autumn leaves here are particularly beautiful. The water discharged from Kurobe Dam (also known as "Kuroyon") is another impressive sight. You'll definitely get a sense of sweat and tears that went into constructing this dam.

Roller Coaster Road

This straight road full of ups and downs is a must-visit in furano and biei.

This farm road is flanked by beautiful Hokkaido scenery and has been certified as one of the 8 most picturesque sights in Kamifurano. It gets its name from the fact that there are some hair-raising ups and downs over a stretch of about 2.5 kilometres. But of course you won't be going at roller coaster speeds, so take your time to check out the colourful patchwork fields of Biei and Furano with their beautiful rows of flowers and vegetables. And in the background you'll see the majestic Mount Tokachi. For a summer drive by car (or a motorcycle ride) through Hokkaido, this is hard to beat.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

Start planning your trip

Related stories.

Nikko National Park

10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Kyoto

10 Best Things to do in Hakata

10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Yokohama

10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Fukuoka

Keep exploring.

• Hyogo Prefecture
• Okinawa (and vicinity)
• Hong Kong SAR
• Philippines
• South Korea

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and central america, middle east, north america, south america, top destinations.

• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Bangkok
• Hotels in Tokyo
• Hotels in Hong Kong
• Hotels in Taipei
• Hotels in London
• Hotels in Batam
• Hotels in Kuala Lumpur
• Hotels in Seoul
• Hotels in Malacca City
• Hotels in Osaka
• Hotels in Genting Highlands
• Hotels in Bintan
• Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
• Hotels in George Town
• Hotels in Paris
• Hotels in Shanghai
• Hotels in New York
• Hotels in Kyoto
• Hotels in Langkawi
• Hotels in Krabi
• Hotels in Kowloon
• Hotels in Melbourne
• Hotels in Hanoi

Top countries & regions

• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Hong Kong SAR
• Hotels in Malaysia
• Hotels in Taiwan
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Khao Yai National Park
• Hotels in Central Singapore
• Hotels in Bintan Island
• Hotels in Cameron Highlands
• Hotels in Jeju Island

Support & FAQs

Website feedback.

• Review a property

For suppliers, affiliates and the media

• Affiliate with us
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Promote with us
• Travel agents

User terms & Privacy

• Terms & Conditions
• Legal Information

List your property

• Travel Guides

* Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Details on site.

© 2024 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

* Learn more about Hotels.com™ Rewards

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Music & Nightlife
• Neighborhoods
• Los Angeles

13 best day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo

Find some of Japan’s most beautiful temples, hiking trails and nature attractions no more than a few hours from Tokyo

It’s true that Tokyo really does have everything, from the best restaurants in the world to endless shopping and even lush forest within the city limits. It’s way too easy to spend a whole vacation in the heart of central Tokyo. However, Japan has much more to offer than just its capital city.

Get out of the city for a day (or longer, if you have time) and head south to Kanagawa hot springs, north to Tochigi for traditional shrines, or out to Yamanashi for postcard perfect views of Mt Fuji . Tokyo might have captured your heart, but these day trips will fully cement your love of Japan.  

If you're looking for a specific kind of day trip, here are the best autumn leaves destinations and art destinations near Tokyo .

Get out of town

Hakone, Kanagawa prefecture

The mountain of Hakone lies about 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, which makes it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from the capital. It has had a long and illustrious history as a hot spring town – its name even appears in Edo-era (1603-1868) rankings of Japan’s best onsen. But Hakone is about much more than just bathing. It’s got everything from superb art museums to an active volcano – as well as a jaw-dropping view of Mt Fuji on clear days.

Getting there: The Hakone Freepass includes unlimited rides on the Hakone Tozan Railway, the ropeway, the Lake Ashi pirate ship and all other major forms of transportation in the area. A two-day pass, which includes a return train ride from Shinjuku, costs ¥6,100 (¥1,100 for children).

Kawagoe, Saitama prefecture

Also known as Koedo or Little Edo, Kawagoe is an Edo period (1603-1867) castle town that's kept its old-fashioned atmosphere through well-preserved traditional streets and buildings. 

Kurazukuri Street is a must-visit as many of the old buildings and warehouses have been converted into quaint shops and restaurants. You'll know you've reached the area when you see the Toki no Kane bell tower – it's an unmissable 16 metres tall. The bell rings four times a day at 6am, 12noon, 3pm and 6pm. 

A short walk from the town's main street is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, which hosts many festivals throughout the year. In summer, this so-called 'love shrine' hosts a wind chime festival where you can stroll under a tunnel of tinkling furin  chimes. Come spring, the river behind the shrine is flanked with cherry blossoms and you can even take a boat ride beneath the flowers.

Getting there: Kawagoe is approximately 30 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Tobu Tojo line. You can also get there from Shinjuku in about an hour on the Seibu Shinjuku line. The two nearest stations are Hon-Kawagoe and Kawagoe.

Enoshima, Kanagawa prefecture

• Things to do

Travel down to the Kanagawa coast and you’ll find the small but beautiful Enoshima. The hilly island lies off the Shonan coast in western Kanagawa, and is connected to the mainland by a bridge that's open to both vehicles and pedestrians.

Enoshima is one of the most popular islands nearest to Tokyo. You’ll find a number of cultural monuments, quaint cafés and sightseeing attractions, more than enough to fuel a day trip. When the weather’s clear, you can even see Mt Fuji in the distance. 

Getting there: The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass  includes a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station, which takes about 80 minutes one way. You also get unlimited rides on the Enoden line between Fujisawa and Kamakura stations for a bit of extended sightseeing in the area. The pass costs ¥1,640 for adults and ¥430 for children. It's a 12-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station to the island.

Kurkku Fields, Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture

Sustainability, art, eco-friendly farmland and the rolling hills of the inaka (countryside) –  Kurkku Fields really does have it all. Located in Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture, Kurkku Fields is a 74-acre sustainable wonderland with the goal of reconnecting busy Tokyoites with nature by introducing them to farming, open nature and even eco-friendly energy in the form of solar panels and a biogeo water purification system. The venue’s farm-to-table restaurant, Kurkku Fields Dining, serves vegetables and herbs grown in the edible garden, eggs and fresh cheese from the dairy farm, and wood-fired pizzas, all made with natural, local ingredients.

Stop by the art galleries, which boast art by Anish Kapoor, Fabrice Hybert, Camille Henrot and Yayoi Kusama – including one of her famous Infinity Rooms. Don’t forget to pick up some fresh charcuterie, cheese and delicate chiffon cake for your city pals. 

Getting there: The best way to access Kurkku Fields is by highway bus from Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station. For more information on access via car or train, see the  website . 

Nikko, Tochigi prefecture

With mountains, hiking trails, monkeys and shrines, at its heart, Nikko is pure traditional Japan. A popular day trip for both Tokyo locals and international tourists, Nikko is best known for the grand Toshogu Shrine and its opulent decorations of carved wood and gold, including three famous wise monkeys representing the principle of ‘see no evil, hear no evil, say no evil’. 

While Toshogu is surely the highlight of the trip, Nikko is also known for forested hiking trails, which are especially picturesque in autumn foliage. There’s also Shinkyo Bridge, painted vermillion and flanked by mountains and temples, and the 75-metre tall Kirifuri waterfall dramatically tumbling down a mountain. 

Getting there: The only direct access is on the limited express Nikko train from Shinjuku station to Tobu Nikko Station. You can also take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo and Ueno stations with a transfer at Utsunomiya Station for the JR Nikko line. Or, from Asakusa, take the Limited Express Spacia (Kegon line) from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. 

Kamakura, Kanagawa prefecture

This small coastal town is often referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan for its multitude of temples, shrines and historical monuments. It was the country’s political capital during the Kamakura shogunate (1185–1333) and there’s plenty to do and see here. Top of the list should be a visit to the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu). This towering bronze statue of the celestial Buddha is the second tallest in Japan and stands at 13.35m. Originally cast in 1252, the Buddha has been peacefully watching over its visitors since 1495.

If you have a little more time, pay a visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura’s largest Shinto shrine. You can reach it via a long, wide approach that leads from Kamakura’s waterfront through the city centre, with multiple torii gates along the way. The grounds include the main hall, a museum and many secondary shrines as well as beautiful ponds and gardens. Look out for a horseback archery display during the Reitai-sai Festival in mid-September performed along the main approach.

Getting there: Kamakura is less than an hour from Tokyo via the JR Yokosuka or Shonan-Shinjuku line from Shinjuku Station. The cheapest but slowest route (90 minutes) is via the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass (¥1,640), which provides a round trip from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura, as well as unlimited use of the Enoden line for the day.

Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi prefecture

One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko is where you’ll get the best view (and perfect Instagram shots) of Mt Fuji. Filled with hot springs, ryokan (Japanese inns) and tourist attractions such as the Fuji-Q Highland theme park, there’s so much to do around the lake you might as well book a weekend trip.

The best time to view good ol’ Fuji-san is in April when the cherry blossoms bloom, November when maple leaves turn vermillion, or in winter when the dry air makes for a picture-perfect, cloud-free view of the snow-capped mountain. Hint: the best photo spot is along the northeastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, next to the Kawaguchiko Music Forest. 

Getting there: Lake Kawaguchi is accessible by express bus (from Shinjuku, Shibuya and Tokyo stations, about two to two and a half hours) and express train (from Shinjuku station, take the JR Chuo line to Otsuki Station, transfer to Fujikyu Railway and get off at Kawaguchiko Station. The whole journey takes about two hours).

Chiba City, Chiba prefecture

Most visitors to Tokyo only set foot in Chiba when they disembark the aeroplane. However, Chiba has much more to offer than just Narita Airport – and Chiba City has something for everyone. Art lover? Stop by the Chiba City Museum of Art to see ukiyo-e and traditional Japanese ink paintings. Need to entertain the kids? The Chiba Zoological Park has a wide variety of animals, including red pandas, giraffes and penguins. History buff? The Chiba City Folk Museum is housed in a replica of the Inohana Castle and is dedicated to the history of Chiba City. 

Getting there: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Sobu line and you'll reach Chiba City in 40 minutes.

Mt Jinba, Tokyo & Kanagawa prefectures

A crowd-free alternative to Mt Takao is Mt Jinba, located on the border of western Tokyo and Kanagawa. The hike to the top is better suited for trekkers looking for an advanced course: at 857m, Mt Jinba is taller and has a better variety of trails than Mt Takao’s more predictable, not to mention shorter, courses.

If you’re really looking to get a workout, you can always hike up Mt Takao, veer off to Mt Jinba, snap a quick pic of Mt Fuji and the odd-looking horse statue at the peak, then head down Mt Jinba and reward yourself with fresh soba noodles and beer. Don’t worry, hiking paths are clearly marked and the majority of the signs are in English. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio or Chuo line to Takao Station, then hop on the bus towards Jinba Kogenshita and get off at the last stop.

Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture

If you want to head out of Tokyo but don’t want to spend too much time on the train, Yokohama is the perfect choice. Just down south in Tokyo’s neighbouring prefecture Kanagawa, Yokohama is known for its oceanside views and delicious Chinese food in Motomachi-Chukagai, also known as Chinatown . The area can be a bit kitschy – expect a lot of vermillion and pandas – but remember, you’re there for the food. Wear your elastic pants and indulge at an all-you-can-eat restaurant, or wander the town and taste test street food – xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai and bubble tea – it’s completely okay to walk and eat here. 

After indulging, walk off your meal at the nearby Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama, or do some shopping at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse . To finish off the day, catch the sunset at the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at 107.5m. 

Getting there: Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo. The Tokyu Toyoko, JR Tokaido, JR Yokosuka and JR Keihin-Tohoku lines connect central Tokyo to Yokohama in approximately 30 minutes. 

Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture

Nestled at the foot of Mount Asama, the most active volcano in Honshu, lies the upmarket resort town of Karuizawa. Many wealthier Tokyoites own second homes here. Start your day at Karuizawa Ginza in the old part of the town, with its traditional shops, cafés, restaurants and stalls selling locally-produced jams and honey. Serious shoppers searching for serious discounts should head to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza near the train station. This discount shopping outlet is home to over 200 stores set in a sprawling and beautifully landscaped area – great for kids to run wild while you splash the cash.

When your credit cards scream for mercy, escape to the open-air Tombo-no-yu bath house for a peaceful soak. Finish off your day at Harunire Terrace and order yourself a refreshing pint of the locally-brewed Yona Yona ale.

Getting there: Karuizawa is just over an hour from Tokyo on the Hokuriku Shinkansen. Get the JR Tokyo Wide Pass (¥10,180) for unlimited travel on all JR trains in the Kanto area over three consecutive days (available to foreign residents of Japan and international tourists). There are also highway buses  departing from Shinjuku and Ikebukuro Stations, which will take about three hours. 

Sayama Hills, Saitama prefecture

• Attractions

Best known for inspiring Hayao Miyazaki and the movie ‘My Neighbour Totoro’, Sayama Hills , also called Totoro no Mori, is a breath of fresh air just outside Greater Tokyo. Channel your inner Satsuki and Mei and pack a bento lunch to wander around the 3,500 hectares of forest with over 1,200 species of flora and fauna  and 19 hiking trails .

Be sure to stop by Kurosuke’s House (open Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday 10am-3pm) – the visitor’s centre – to pick up maps and learn about the nature reserve and its influence on Studio Ghibli and Totoro. You might not get to befriend a giant tanuki or ride in a cat bus (you’ll have to stop by the Ghibli Museum for that) but the fresh air and secluded forest will certainly add a sense of childlike wonder to your trip. 

While you’re in the area, stop by the nearby Sayama Lake reservoir. The lake is pleasant in any season, but especially in winter, when you can easily spot a snow-capped Mt Fuji on the horizon. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station take the JR Yamanote line to Ikebukuro, then transfer to the Ikebukuro line and alight at Nishi-Tokorozawa Station. Take the Sayama line to Seibu Kyujo-Mae Station. It will be a 20-minute walk to reach the forest. 

Katsunuma, Yamanashi prefecture

Although better known for sake than vino, Japan has actually been producing amazing wines using locally-grown grapes since the 1800s. Katsunuma, in Yamanashi prefecture, is home to 31 wineries, which between them account for about 30 percent of all Japanese wine. Many offer tasting sessions and lessons in winemaking as well as tours.

Experience it yourself at Budo no Oka (Grape Hill). Here, you can soak in magnificent views of the surrounding vineyards and the Japanese Southern Alps to the west – Yamanashi is home to Mount Fuji – while tasting more than 200 varieties of wine. Aside from wine tastings, there’s plenty more to enjoy on site, including a terrific barbecue restaurant and open-air hot spring.

Getting there: Katsunuma is about 90 minutes on the JR Chuo line Limited Express Azusa, or Kaiji from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Katsunuma-Budokyo Station.

Explore beyond Tokyo

Japan's 8 most underrated prefectures – and why you should visit

Travel off the beaten track to these storybook villages, Edo-era towns with geisha (not Kyoto!) and seaside retreats

The most beautiful places in Japan

Venture beyond Tokyo – add these breathtaking temples, landmarks and hiking trails to your Japan bucket list

6 best road trips in Japan

Looking for a relaxed yet socially distanced way to travel? Hop in a car and take these scenic road trips through Japan

[image] [title]

More on getaways

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

• Terms of use
• Work for Time Out
• Time Out Group
• Advertising
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out Tokyo

• Magazine subscription
• Digital edition
• Buy the guide to Tokyo

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

The 12 Best Beginner Motorcycles For Long Road Trips

I t's easy to romanticize the idea of setting off on a long road trip, especially when it concerns doing it on two wheels . It's a chance to revel in the freedom the open roads give you, explore, and, quite importantly, get to know the vehicle enabling this experience. Given that, though, it's critical to get the right kind of machine along for this trip.

UPDATE: 2024/01/26 16:17 EST BY RAUNAK AJINKYA

Road trips, in general, can be tough if you don't have the right motorcycle along for the ride, especially if you are a novice rider. Given that, we have updated this list to include a few more entries of motorcycles perfectly suited for the job.

This is especially true if you're a rider devoid of a lot of seat time. The last thing you want to do is bring someone's sportbike along because while it may have a lot of power and consume miles rapidly, it's something you'll tire of rather quickly because of the compromised riding triangle. Luckily, this list should help you get through that selection process. It features beginner-friendly motorcycles you can legitimately rely on for long road trips by the likes of Suzuki , Harley-Davidson , Yamaha , and even Ducati, among others.

How we got our model selections: To compile this list, HotCars made a list of all the appropriate motorcycles on offer that enable long trips. While power was considered a criterion to narrow the list down, the motorcycles also needed to be beginner-friendly, meaning priority was given to motorcycles with comfortable ergonomics, impressive fuel tank capacity, and easy-to-handle curb weight figures. It should be noted that this list is a mix of motorcycles currently in production and those that have been discontinued but can be readily found in the used market. Also, the motorcycles have been organized in increasing order of the current market values.

Top 10 Beginner Motorcycles Under 500cc

Suzuki boulevard s40, used price range: $2,000-$6,000.

Suzuki's cheapest Boulevard doesn't leave you wanting for much. The 652cc engine is strong but not too strong for the bike's weight. It's not quite as long as other cruisers, which is nice for a beginner, and it's got a fairly affordable used price range, too. The seating is relaxed, with handles a little closer to you.

The newer ones come in a cool street-color gray and a classic blue. The way it features less chrome with a blacked-out engine and black finish on the wheels makes it look sporty and simple. A single speedometer over the gas tank is analog, and it has plates on the sides for saddlebags if you need cargo space.

2019 Suzuki Boulevard S40 Specs

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs )

Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Used price range: $2,000-$10,000.

This Harley-Davidson gets 833 America-made ccs of power and goes for well under $10k in the used market. It's one of the best Harleys to start with, and you won't get kicked out of a biker bar for owning one. The Iron 883 has a V-Twin engine. If you don't know, this is a cool thing to have if you wear a leather jacket with patches unironically.

Admittedly, you don't get quite as much for your investment as an Indian Scout Sixty, and both will always be less reliable than a Honda or Kawasaki, but there are some things that just don't compare, like the trademark Harley rumble! Plus, with motorcycles, there's always less to fix than with cars so that you can do a lot of the work yourself.

2008 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Specs

Yamaha v star 250, starting msrp: $4,699.

The Yamaha V-Star 250 is one of the very best for uneasy beginners looking to road trip . A new one costs just $4,699, and it gets 78 MPG. That means 195 miles between stops, which is pretty decent for a motorcycle. If you haven't figured it out, most of the time, the numbers by the name represent the ccs in a bike, so this has 249 (thus, 250). That means it's a very comfortable beginner's bike that won't scare you but can still get up to cruising speed faster than most cars. It also means the bike is lighter and easier to control.

It has a decent rear seat for passengers and a good base for saddlebags and packs. The speedometer is analog, and the styling is classic, so you might get confused if you park by any V-Star from the past 40 years. Despite the timeless look, the bike holds up to aging well and won't feel rough or uncomfortable on a long trip.

2024 Yamaha V-Star 250 Specs

(Specs sourced from WebBikeWorld )

These Are The Best Cheap Beginner Motorcycles From Japan

Ducati scrambler sixty2, used price range: $5,000-$7,000.

The Scrambler Sixty2 is a 399cc sportbike marketed more towards women. It weighs less than any on this list at just 403 lbs, which is great for people worried about laying it down on accident. It may look like a "naked" (a sportbike with no fairings or extra body covers), but this bike gets just shy of 250 miles of range, and even though the seat is a little more aggressive and won't hug your buns, the way it's shaped actually is relaxing and won't rub your behind the wrong way like a dirt bike (for men and women).

This bike won't be able to hold saddlebags, but the Sixty2 makes a great road trip bike for someone who won't spend more than three days riding in a row and wants a good in-town motorcycle the rest of the time. Surprisingly, for its size (but not for Ducati's standards), it can go up to 100 mph, so you'll never be left wanting more power on the freeway.

2018 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 Specs

Bmw g 310 gs, starting msrp: $5,890.

The BMW G 310 GS is an adventure bike , meaning with some knobby tires, it makes a decent dirt bike for trails as well. With an adventure bike, you get way more travel (7.5 inches) for smoother rides, a more comfortable seat than a dirt bike, and a more upright seating position than dirt or bullet bikes. The 310 GS is one of the cheapest Beamers you can buy new for just $5,890. That being said, it is a Beamer. This won't win any awards for reliability.

The 310 GS makes a comfortable 313cc that won't get you up any hill climbs but will easily take you up to 90 miles per hour. With 71 MPG, it has a range of 213 miles. The digital display shows gas, gear, and speed in bold fashion, and the LED light makes for a great off-road light in bright mode.

2024 BMW G 310 GS Specs

Honda rebel 500, starting msrp: $6,499.

The Rebel 500 is an affordable and comfortable bike that will last you your whole life. It has 471ccs, which won't let you do any wheelies but does get you up to cruising speed sooner than you need. To keep yourself from locking up your brakes (a significant factor in motorcycle crashes), you can and should get the ABS option. The blacked-out bike may mimic a Harley, but the low seat height makes it ideal for women and the height-challenged. It is also surprisingly fitting for full-height people.

The Rebel has been around for years, so used ones aren't hard to find, and a new one will run for just $6,499. The digital cluster is simple and includes a fuel gauge (not included on all motorcycles). Honda’s slip/assist clutch makes shifting easy for the uninitiated, but sadly, this doesn't come with an automatic transmission. The manual is very forgiving, easy to learn, and worth it, in our opinion. This bike is ideal for beginners who don't plan on switching bikes for years to come.

2024 Honda Rebel 500 Specs

These are the best beginner motorcycles money can buy, kawasaki vulcan s, starting msrp: $7,349.

According to their official website, Kawasaki advertises the Vulcan as being able to fit a wide range of people. The 649cc engine has a good kick at low to mid-range for city stops, but it can also get up to 100 mph. For $7,349, it will feel sportier and quicker than other bikes, but it's also reportedly fun to sit on on the freeway! It has one of the most natural seating positions of any bike under $10,000, probably because it's adjustable.

It may look nothing like a beginner's bike, but it is what Kawasaki offers as their entry-level cruiser . If you're not worried about the bike weighing a little more, it is a very forgiving and comfortable ride. ABS is available, features like a windshield and back support are easy to add, and they are a massive plus on long rides.

2024 Kawasaki Vulcan S Specs

Honda nc750x, starting msrp: $9,499.

If there were a contender for the bike on this list that you could buy with your eyes closed, the Honda NC750X would be right up there at the top of that list.

It's easy on the eyes, great for beginners in terms of the riding ergonomics, is affordable enough, has a great ride, and the DCT on it is the cherry on the icing. It even includes riding modes, a windshield, and a low seat height. That the NC750X often gets discounted is a puzzle.

2024 Honda NC750X Specs

Triumph tiger 660, starting msrp: $9,695.

The star of the show here is, of course, Triumph's lovely 3-cylinder engine, but the Tiger 660 is no one-trick pony. This is about as close to ideal for beginners to get on and go on a long trip .

Tack on luggage and load it up, and the excellent tractability of the motor will still pull you along comfortably. You can even add optional extras that will make the journey more comfortable, like additional lighting and heated grips. Hard to fault the Tiger 660, really.

2023 Triumph Tiger 660 Specs

10 best beginner motorcycles money can buy, bmw f 750 gs.

BMW's GS motorcycle lineup is legendary . The F 750 GS is a natural at completing longer journeys in absolute comfort. One of the most important factors is, of course, the seat, and the F 750 GS makes do with one that's ideally suited to road trips.

At 32.1 inches, it's much lower than you'd expect for a bike this size, but if that's not enough, BMW will also sell you a suspension lowering kit and soft seat, bringing the seat height down further to 30.3 inches. In addition to that, it also gets dynamic traction control, ride modes, and adjustable brake and clutch levers, among others. For the money, it's quite a deal.

2023 BMW F 750 GS Specs

Indian scout sixty, starting msrp: $11,749.

The Indian Scout Sixty is one "beginner" bike that will earn you a lot of respect . It starts at $11,749 and is pretty long and wide but isn't necessarily heavy. The wider handlebars give you better in-city control around corners, and ABS is an option. The engine is 1000ccs, the most of any on this list, but not something an average-fit person couldn't handle easily.

While this is more of a luxury option, it allows for things like a windshield (don't discount how useful one of these is after just two hours of 60+ mph wind in your face) and genuine leather saddlebags. The seat is wide, which benefits the narrow-waisted as well as larger people.

2024 Indian Scout Sixty Specs

Energica eva esseesse9+, starting msrp: $16,110.

This electric bike warrants some cautionary tales: First, do not listen to music until you are comfortable with traffic flow and riding defensively! Cars cannot hear you at all, and they can't see you too well either. Also, its range is 143 miles combined, which is not the best for long trips but is still passable with some planning.

With that out of the way, you get an 80% charge in 40 minutes with a fast charge! All you need to do is stop for a meal by a power station, and you're as well off as any ICE bike. The EsseEsse9 has a nice, upright position , but you're also working with a lot of torque, so make sure you take it slow, or you can pop a wheelie. Otherwise, unlike combustion bikes, it's small and simple and won't have any mechanical issues to stump you. The gauge is simple and can tell the range so you won't be left without power.

2020 Energica EVA EsseEsse9+ Specs

(Specs sourced from Bikez )

• Source for features: Respective manufacturers' websites
• Source for technical specifications: Motorcycle Specs, Bikez, WebBikeWorld
• Source for used prices: Cycle Trader