Exploring Japan the Leisurely Way by Campervan
Exploring Japan by motorhome rental or campervan hire is one of the best secrets. The people are polite and friendly, and the scenery is gorgeous. The high toll road charges are perhaps the only serious downtick. We say ‘perhaps’ because we believe the greatest pleasures of traveling lie in exploring minor roads. The motorhome pickup is in Tokyo in the heart of the main island. This puts you within striking distance of all the main attractions.
The Main Types of Campervans in Use in Japan
The simplest campervans are modified minivans. They sleep two adults and two children comfortably, and can accommodate several more passengers in daytime. More popular, truck-sized campervans accommodate six adults in wide beds. They have large, home-style kitchens and perhaps even a shower. Almost all Japanese campervans are modified vehicles, including microbuses.
Where to Park for the Night When Exploring Japan
There are more than 1,000 roadside stations welcoming motorhomes, campervans, and other recreational vehicles. These ‘michi no eki’ camps are in urban areas as well as countryside locations. Their facilities may include fresh food markets, grocery shops, petrol stations, and even restaurants. Not all have ablutions or wi-fi.
Where there are food and bathing facilities, these may remain open during business hours only, and not at all on public holidays so do inquire ahead. All are well patronised during holiday seasons. It’s generally best not to arrive in a recreational vehicle after dark. The atmosphere is often convivial in the evening where ‘konnichiwa’ means a friendly hello.
Most Japanese Places Are Open to Campervans
Rental campervans are a popular holiday choice in Japan. They are welcome on tourist routes, and the highways and byways of this lovely country. Hokkaido Island in the northernmost prefecture is a top destination reminiscent of camping holidays in America’s national parks. The volcanic Kyushu landscape also beckons from the southernmost island.
Drive Along the Beach on Japan’s Chirihama Nagisa Driveway
Some 532 kilometres / 325 miles east of Tokyo the Japanese let their guard down when it comes to traffic regulations. The highway does not follow the coastline, the beach is the road, and access to the 8 kilometre / 5 mile stretch is free. On a glorious summer day it is alive with bicycles, cars, motorcycles and buses, and you can camp there and relax.
The water remains shallow for a considerable distance out to sea, and there are stalls selling fresh-caught, freshly grilled shellfish and sea fish. This is one of the most unusual campervan sites we ever came across. If you feel like joining in a game of beach volleyball, you will have a wonderful time. Later, you may cross the island back to Tokyo, and return your hire vehicle after exploring Japan..