If you are ready for views that will leave you speechless, you are in the right place.
Japan’s road trips offer sights and experiences you simply cannot get from trains or tour buses.
In this guide, you will find 10 stunning routes that take you through mountains, along coastlines, and deep into hidden villages.
Whether you are after a short scenic drive or a full-blown adventure, you will find the best places to hit the road and make memories that stay with you.
1) Exploring Hokkaido’s natural beauty
Hokkaido offers a perfect road trip experience with stunning landscapes and peaceful drives.
You’ll find pristine lakes, volcanic mountains, and forests throughout Japan’s northernmost island.
In spring and summer, enjoy vibrant flower fields and nice hiking trails.
Autumn changes the island.
The leaves turn bright red and gold.
This creates amazing photo spots.
Winter brings magical snow-covered landscapes and world-class skiing.
Don’t miss the hot springs (onsen) scattered across the island where you can relax after a day of driving.
The food in Hokkaido is amazing too.
Fresh seafood, local dairy, and hearty ramen will fuel your adventure.
2) Osaka to Kumamoto coastal drive
This beautiful trip goes from lively Osaka to lovely Kumamoto.
It covers about 600 kilometers along Japan’s southern coast.
You’ll need about 5-7 days to properly enjoy this route.
The drive lets you experience Japan’s excellent roads while taking in dramatic coastal landscapes.
You’ll pass through lively cities like Kobe, Hiroshima and Fukuoka along the way.
Don’t miss stops at Himeji Castle, the moving Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, and the beautiful views in Onomichi.
Kitakyushu offers lovely beaches if you fancy a swim.
A car hire gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing stops at small coastal villages that trains simply bypass.
3) Discovering the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes
The Kumano Kodo is a set of five old pilgrimage paths.
These trails wind through the hilly Kii Peninsula in Japan.
These routes include Nakahechi, Kohechi, Iseji, Oheji, and Omine Okugake.
Many travelers choose the Nakahechi route.
It starts in Tanabe on the western coast and goes east through the mountains.
It’s the most accessible path for beginners while still offering breathtaking scenery.
As you trek these sacred paths, you’ll encounter stunning natural beauty and areas of profound spirituality.
The routes are well-marked, making them perfect for self-guided adventures.
Begin your journey in Kii-Tanabe.
Then, head to Kii-Katsura.
You’ll discover Japan’s amazing spiritual heritage as you travel.
4) Scenic Mt. Fuji around the Five Lakes
A road trip around the Fuji Five Lakes offers some of the most stunning views of Japan’s iconic mountain.
You can easily spend two to three days exploring the area at the northern base of Mt. Fuji.
Driving around Lake Kawaguchiko is rewarding.
There are many spots to get that perfect photo of Fuji-san reflecting in the water.
Many travellers say the views here are better than from Hakone.
You’ll find plenty of hot springs, outdoor activities, and charming stops along the way.
Consider renting a car from Shinjuku or Hakone for the best experience.
This route works brilliantly as a short two-day journey or as part of a longer four-day road trip including nearby attractions.
5) The enchanting Noto Peninsula
The Noto Peninsula offers one of Japan’s most scenic coastal drives.
This remote area in Ishikawa Prefecture is great for travelers.
It offers stunning landscapes without the crowds.
As you drive along the eastern coast, you’ll encounter sparsely populated areas with stunning ocean views.
The dramatic coastline has rugged cliffs and beautiful beaches.
They offer great photo opportunities.
You can explore the peninsula in a single day trip from Kanazawa, though spending 1-2 days allows for a more relaxed journey.
The full route is about 236 km long.
It winds through charming fishing villages and traditional communities.
Don’t miss the boat tours where you might spot local marine life in the diverse ecosystem.
6) Coastal Wakayama
Wakayama’s coastline offers one of Japan’s most stunning drives.
You’ll find endless ocean views as you wind along smooth roads hugging the Pacific.
The route takes you past beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs and charming fishing villages.
Stop at small coastal towns to sample fresh seafood and soak in local onsens.
Many travellers start near Nagoya and drive the 232km journey down to Wakayama.
The roads remain smooth even in regional areas, making it an easy drive.
Don’t miss the chance to pause at scenic lookouts for incredible views.
This coastal drive is perfect for those wanting to experience Japan’s maritime charm away from the crowds.
7) Kyūshū: Mt Aso to Cape Sata
This 322 km trip across Kyūshū Island shows off stunning volcanic views and subtropical vibes.
You’ll start at Mt Aso, an active volcano with stunning hiking trails and dramatic scenery.
As you drive south, you can stop at Kuju Flower Park to see colourful seasonal blooms.
The Kurokawa Onsen area makes a perfect overnight stop where you can soak in natural hot springs after a day of exploration.
Your road trip continues through diverse terrain until you reach Cape Sata, the southernmost point of Japan’s main islands.
Along the way, you’ll encounter unique local cultures and breathtaking views that showcase Kyūshū’s natural beauty.
8) Journey through the Japan Alps
The Japanese Alps offer a stunning backdrop for a memorable road trip.
Winding roads take you through tiny traditional villages nestled among majestic mountains.
Start your journey in Kanazawa and drive to Takayama along the scenic Hakusan White Road.
The toll is worth it for the breathtaking views.
Spend a couple of days exploring Takayama’s charming Old Town with its well-preserved buildings.
Don’t miss walking a section of the historic Nakasendo Trail.
This ancient path connects mountain villages and gives you a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Natural hot springs dot the region, perfect for relaxing after a day of driving and exploring.
9) Venus Line, Nagano
The Venus Line is one of Nagano’s most stunning driving routes.
This scenic road connects several highland areas including Utsukushigahara, Kirigamine, Shirakaba and Tateshina.
You can start your journey about an hour’s drive from Matsumoto.
The road winds through beautiful mountain landscapes that will take your breath away.
The entire route spans about 80 kilometres.
As you drive, you’ll pass through various highlands offering amazing views.
Look out for spots like Lake Shirakaba and Kurumayama along the way.
The Venus Line is perfect for those who want to escape the city and enjoy Japan’s natural beauty.
10) Mysterious Tsushima Island adventure
Tsushima Island sits closer to Korea than mainland Japan.
This makes it a unique destination for your road trip adventures.
This remote island in Nagasaki has beautiful nature, great for driving and exploring.
The island features stunning coastal scenery and limited public transport.
So, having your own vehicle is ideal.
You can cruise along Aso Bay and discover hidden spots that most tourists never see.
For a taste of ancient Japan, Tsushima doesn’t disappoint.
The island preserves historical sites and traditional culture away from the usual tourist crowds.
As you drive around, you’ll encounter the perfect blend of nature and history.
Planning to drive in Japan?
Renting a Car in Japan
Renting a car in Japan is straightforward but requires planning.
Expect to pay around ¥7,500-10,000 per day for compact cars, with prices higher during peak tourist seasons.
Big rental companies like Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nissan Rent-a-Car, and Times Car Rental offer English services.
You can also book online.
You’ll need your passport, International Driving Permit, and a credit card to rent a car.
Consider adding an ETC card (¥300-500 daily) and English GPS navigation (¥500-1,000 daily) to your package.
Japanese Driving Etiquette
Japanese driving etiquette differs from what you might be used to at home.
A unique custom is the “thank you hazard light.”
This means quickly flashing your hazard lights to show appreciation.
You do this when another driver lets you merge or gives way.
When parking, it’s customary to reverse into spaces rather than driving in forwards.
Drive calmly and considerately.
Keep a safe distance from other cars.
Always yield to pedestrians at crossings.
This helps you fit in with local driving culture.
Handling Emergencies on the Road
If you experience an accident or breakdown in Japan, knowing the proper procedures is essential.
For accidents, call the police immediately (dial 110) regardless of severity.
For breakdowns, call the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) at 0570-00-8139.
They provide 24/7 roadside assistance, but English support might be limited.
Most rental companies provide emergency contact numbers with English-speaking staff.
Keep your rental agreement, passport, and International Driving Permit with you at all times.
On expressways, use emergency phones marked with orange boxes or pull into the nearest Service Area for help.
Parking Challenges and Costs
Parking in Japanese cities can be both expensive and challenging to find.
In major urban areas like Tokyo, expect to pay around ¥400-1,000 per hour, with daily rates often exceeding ¥3,000.
Look for coin-operated parking lots (コインパーキング) which are more affordable than hotel parking.
Many tourist attractions have designated parking areas, but they fill quickly during peak seasons.
In smaller towns, you’ll find more reasonable rates, but spaces may still be limited.
Always check if parking is available near your hotel before booking.
Some hotels charge extra for parking.
Left-Side Driving and Legal Requirements
Did you know that in Japan, you’ll drive on the left side of the road?
This crucial detail catches many tourists off guard, especially if you’re from a right-hand driving country.
Before you travel, get an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most visitors need to get this in their home country.
Your IDP is valid for one year in Japan and must be carried alongside your regular licence.
Road signs mainly use Japanese characters, even if they have English translations.
So, get to know common symbols before you travel.
Service Areas and Rest Stops
Japan’s highway rest stops, called “Service Areas” (SA) and “Parking Areas” (PA), are far more than just petrol stations.
You’ll find clean toilets, local restaurants, souvenir shops, and viewing platforms at these nice facilities.
Service Areas are bigger and have more amenities.
Parking Areas are smaller but still offer key services.
They appear every 15-40 kilometres along expressways, making them perfect for breaking up long drives.
Understanding Toll Roads and Costs
Japan’s extensive network of toll roads will speed up your journey, but they come at a price.
Expect to pay around ¥25 per kilometre on expressways, which can add up quickly on long trips.
The ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card system lets you pay without stopping.
However, as a tourist, you’ll probably use the regular toll gates.
There, you can pay with cash or a credit card.
Some rental companies provide cars with ETC cards and flat-rate expressway passes.
This can save you money if you plan to travel a lot on highways.
