Summary
- Start
Haneda airport or Tokyo/Shinjuku/Shibuya Station - Finish
Haneda airport or Tokyo/Shinjuku/Shibuya Station - Mileage
Total 1150km
150km per day - Travel Pace
Fast - Onsen Stay
Max.6 nights - Recommended Seasons
Beg May – Beg Nov
This itinerary takes 8 days to circle around Tokyo and Mt.Fuji.
Daily mileage is standard but due to no consecutive stay, the travel pace is fast.
If you want to stay in Tokyo after the road trip, you can return the car not to the airport but to Tokyo. Due to traffic jams and lack of parking, walking and the train are more convenient for sightseeing in Tokyo.
Tokyo – Hakone/Atami(Sample)
Start: Tokyo (東京)
Finish:Hakone or Atami (箱根/熱海)
Mileage:
To Hakone: 130km
To Atami: 155km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head from Tokyo to either Hakone or Atami. Hakone and Atami are only about 25km apart, so it doesn’t matter which one you stay at.
1
Rental car branch at Haneda airport, Narita airport or Tokyo
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is not very long, about 130-155km, but there are so many attractions such as Kamakura and Enoshima. And roads around Kamakura and Enoshima area are especially congested on weekends, so we recommend that you depart as early as possible.
75 min
2
Kamakura city & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Parking MAPCODE:
8 246 659*02What is MAPCODE?
10:15
The first destination is the ancient city [Kamakura city & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine]. This shrine is known as a shrine related to Minamoto no Yoritomo (the shogun who established the first samurai government) and is a majestic shrine that boasts 5th place in the worship ranking.
Also, between Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and Kamakura Station, there is [Komachi Street], which is full of 250 shops. It is crowded with many worshipers and tourists, and you can enjoy eating while walking.
10 min
3
Kamakura Great Buddha
Parking MAPCODE:
8 214 103*73What is MAPCODE?
11:30
About 3km west of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, there is [Kamakura Great Buddha], which is a symbol of Kamakura. There is also a [Hase Dera Temple], which is known for its hydrangea and Japan’s largest wood carving Kannon in walking distance, so please visit them as a set.
25 min
4
Enoshima island
Parking MAPCODE:
15 178 698*78What is MAPCODE?
12:50
After leaving Kamakura, head to Enoshima. There are cafes with a nice atmosphere and restaurants that are typical of the Shonan area, so it is recommended for lunch. Speaking of Enoshima, you can’t miss the famous raw shirasu-don (raw whitebait bowl).
90 min
5
Owakudani
Parking MAPCODE:
57 242 740What is MAPCODE?
15:50
After leaving Enoshima, you will drive further west along the sea.
If you have time, please head to Hakone’s [Owakudani]. It is a powerful observatory where you can witness an active volcano. Black eggs, which are said to extend your lifespan by 7 years when you eat one, are very popular.
15 min
6
Inn in Hakone or Atami
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:10
On this day you will stay in Hakone or Atami. Both are super famous hot spring areas. Please relax and heal from the active first day.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in either Hakone Town or Atami City. It is 25km and takes about 40min. Both of them are nationally famous onsen areas.
①Hakone(箱根)
Hakone is smaller than Atami but has many luxury onsen ryokans.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 4 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for onsens and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are a few restaurants for dinner in this area and be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
②Atami(熱海)
Atami is a bigger city than Hakone and has more inexpensive inns.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for onsens and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are many restaurants around Atami Station and the “Atami Ginza” area. However, Atami is surrounded by mountains and if your inn is located mountainside, it is very tough to have dinner there and highly recommended to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Hakone/Atami – Mt.Fuji🔒
Start:Hakone(箱根) or Atami(熱海)
Finish:Mt.Fuji(Lake Kawaguchiko)(河口湖)
Mileage:130km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will go around Mt. Fuji clockwise from Hakone or Atami to Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes.
1
Inn in Hakone or Atami
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:00
The mileage is about 130km, which is short, but there are many sightseeing spots, so please start according to the places you want to go.
10 min
2
Ashinoko Skyline road
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:10
You will drive comfortably on the [Ashinoko Skyline] first thing in the morning. It may be a little detour, but you can enjoy the real pleasure of a driving trip while seeing the beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi.
60 min
3
Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisya Shrine
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:10
After that, you will head to [Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisya Shrine]. Using the expressway (E1A) will save you time.
At [Omiya Yokocho] opposite the shrine, you can compare the taste of Fujinomiya Yakisoba, which is synonymous with Fujinomiya, so it is ideal for lunch.
20 min
4
Shiraito Waterfalls(Fuji)
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:00
After lunch, you will head to Shiraito Waterfalls (Fuji), the biggest highlight of the day, with Mt. Fuji on your side. They are must-see waterfalls with a height of 20m and a width of 200m.
60 min
5
Mt.Arakurayama Sengen Park
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:00
After leaving Shiraito Falls, you will finally be approaching the Fuji Five Lakes area.
From the east, there are five lakes, Lake Motosuko, Lake Shojiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Kawaguchiko, and Lake Yamanakako. Especially, we recommend [Mt.Arakura Sengen Park] near Lake Kawaguchiko. It is a popular spot where you can see Mt. Fuji and the five-storied pagoda as a set.
10 min
Many tourist spots are scattered around the Fuji Five Lakes. If you go directly to Lake Kawaguchiko without turning Mt. Fuji clockwise, you can relax comfortably. Please consider the process according to your destination by referring to the drive map.
In addition, there are many famous spots for flowers and autumn leaves around Mt. Fuji that can only be reached by car. These are must-visit places if you visit in spring and autumn.
6
Inn in Lake Kawaguchiko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:10
The area around Lake Kawaguchiko is a famous hot spring resort. It will be a long-distance drive tomorrow, so please take a rest and save your energy at the hot springs of Lake Kawaguchiko. Yamanashi’s specialty [hoto] is also recommended for dinner.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
Lake Kawaguchiko, located on the northern side of Mt. Fuji, is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is also famous for its onsen. Many inns line the eastern shore of the lake.
- Inn Type
There are a variety of inns like 3-star western-style hotels and 5-star Japanese Ryokans. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for onsens and some of the inns have one. Some hotels provide you can enjoy an open-air onsen with a Mt.Fuji view.
There are no onsens in this town and no inns have onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.
There are a few restaurants around in this area but it is recommended to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Mt.Fuji – Matsumoto🔒
Start:Mt.Fuji(Lake Kawaguchiko)(河口湖)
Finish:Matsumoto (松本)
Mileage:190km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day you will head from Lake Kawaguchiko to Matsumoto.
1
Inn in Lake Kawaguchiko
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:00
The mileage is long, about 180km. Please use the expressway if the car navigation system recommends it to save time.
10 min
2
Mt.Arakurayama Sengen Park
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:10
First of all, if you haven’t visited yet, please visit [Mt.Arakurayama Sengen Park] near Lake Kawaguchiko. It is a popular spot where you can see Mt. Fuji and the five-storied pagoda as a set, so the first visit in the morning is recommended.
80 min
3
Shosenkyo Gorge
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:30
After that, you will head to [Shosenkyo Gorge]. Here you can enjoy a stroll through the valley of strange rocks and rivers.
50 min
4
Seisenryo
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
14:20
Then you will head north to Yatsugatake. Please use the expressway (E20) to reduce travel time.
Around Kiyosato, there is soft serve ice cream made from rich jersey milk and nice restaurants making it a perfect spot for lunch.
40 min
5
Lake Suwa Observatory(Tateishi Park)
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:30
After that, you will head to the highlight of the day, [Lake Suwa Observatory (Tateishi Park)]. Please use the expressway (E20) to reduce travel time.
It is a place that became famous as a sacred place for the animated movie “Your Name”, and you can enjoy a wonderful sight, especially at dusk.
50 min
6
Matsumoto Castle
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
16:50
The final destination of the day is [Matsumoto Castle], which is synonymous with Matsumoto. Please use the expressway (E19) to reduce travel time.
You can see the inside of the castle tower, which is one of the few original castle towers in Japan. However, please note that the final admission time is 16:30 – 17:30 depending on the seasons.
Matsumoto castle
10 min
7
Inn in Matsumoto
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
18:00
Matsumoto, the largest city in Nagano prefecture. Many restaurants are open until night, so you don’t have to worry about dinner.
If you have time, we recommend taking a walk along “Nakamachi-Dori street”, which is lined with buildings with Namako walls.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Matsumoto (松本) city.
Many inns are concentrated in the following two areas.
①Around Matsumoto Station
The inns are concentrated east side of Matsumoto Station. This area is convenient for dinner and visiting Matsumoto castle but no inns offer Onsens.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns have official parking but in addition to the accommodation fee, the parking lot fee will be charged separately. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.
②Asama Onsen(浅間温泉)
This hot spring resort area is located 4km north of Matsumoto station. If you would like to stay in better accommodation with Onsen, here is recommended.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This area is famous for onsen and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area and be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Matsumoto – Karuizawa🔒
Start: Matsumoto (松本)
Finish: Karuizawa (軽井沢)
Mileage:130km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head from Matsumoto to Karuizawa via the Venus Line, one of Japan’s leading tourist mountain roads. This is one of the biggest highlights of this road trip.
1
Inn in Matsumoto
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:00
The mileage is short, about 130km, but about 50km of it is a mountain road. There are also many attractions and places to go for a walk, so it is recommended that you start early.
55 min
2
Utsukushigahara Open Air Museum
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:55
When you leave Matsumoto, you first go up the mountain road called Azalea Line to [Utsukushigahara Open Air Museum]. The museum itself is wonderful and the amazing view is a must-see.
25 min
3
Mitsumine Viewing Platform
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:20
After that, you will finally be on the [Venus Line] drive.
Please drop in at [Mitsumine Viewing Platform]. You can take a break while gazing at the superb view.
35 min
4
Yashima Wetlands
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:40
You then head to [Yashima Wetlands]. You can take a walk in the marshland, which stretches over a plateau at an altitude of 1600 m, and is full of rare plants and flowers.
15 min
5
Kurumayama Highland
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:50
After Yashima wetlands, you will enter the most beautiful section of the Venus Line. There are some shops to take a rest and observatories along the way, so stop by and enjoy a drive.
After that, it is the biggest highlight of the day [Kurumayama Highland]. A truly awesome 360-degree view spreads out. You need to take a lift to the top of the mountain, but you will never regret it. Highly recommended.
90 min
After leaving Kurumayama Highland, you will go down to [Shirakaba Lake], then leave the Venus Line and head toward Karuizawa.
6
Inn in Karuizawa
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:55
There are many nice restaurants in Karuizawa where you will stay on this day, but all of them are closed from 8 to 9 pm due to regulations. The convenience stores also close at 23:00. Please make sure you arrive at the inn by about 6 pm so you don’t miss your dinner.
A walk in the town of Karuizawa will be tomorrow.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Karuizawa city(軽井沢) which is famous for its summer and snow resorts.
The inns are spread over a wide area around Karuizawa Station.
And when you stay in Karuizawa, be aware of the strict town ordinances. All restaurants close by 21:00 and all convenience stores also close at 23:00.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
Most inns don’t have onsen. If you would like to stay at an inn with an onsen, “Karuizawa Prince hotel” is recommended. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are many nice restaurants for dinner around the hotel. And some inns also provide nice dinner too. Therefore, please make reservations according to your preference. Due to the town ordinances, most of the restaurants close around 20:00-21:00. Please note that there is no place where you can eat dinner at a late time.
Karuizawa – Kusatsu🔒
Start: Karuizawa (軽井沢)
Finish: Kusatsu (草津)
Mileage:60km
Travel Pace: Relaxed
On this day you will head from Karuizawa to Kusatsu Onsen.
1
Inn in Karuizawa
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
10:00
The mileage is as short as about 60km, so you can travel comfortably even if you depart late.
10 min
2
Karuizawa Lake Garden
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
10:10
The first destination is [Karuizawa Lake Garden]. Especially the rose season in spring and autumn and the season of autumn leaves are breathtaking.
15 min
3
Kyukaruizawa Ginza Street
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:25
After that, you will return to the town of Karuizawa and walk on [Kyukaruizawa Ginza Street]. It is the main street of Karuizawa, a historic summer resort. You can enjoy walking around the cute church and the bakery where John Lennon attended. It is also recommended for lunch.
25 min
4
Shiraito Waterfalls(Karuizawa)
Parking MAPCODE:
292 851 679What is MAPCODE?
12:50
Departing from Karuizawa, there is [Shiraito Waterfalls(Karuizawa)] along the Shiraito Highland Way on the toll road. There is no river upstream, and it is a mysterious waterfall where the water seeps out from the mountain surface and flows down.
10 min
From there you will comfortably drive through the woods of Kitakaruizawa. You can also enjoy sweets if you take a break on the way. Please refer driving map.
5
Mt.Asama magma stone park(Onioshidashi Volcanic Park)
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
14:00
We also recommend [Mt. Asama magma stone park (Onioshidashi Volcanic Park)]. You can take a walk for about 30 minutes in the desolate scenery of the cold and solidified lava of Mt. Asama. In autumn, you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves from here.
30 min
6
Inn in Kusatsu Onsen
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:00
On this day, you will stay at Kusatsu Onsen, one of the most famous Onsen town in all over Japan.
Kusatsu is full of highlights such as walking around the symbols [Yubatake] and [Sainokawara Park], and a hot spring fir show at [Netsunoyu]. Arrive at the inn around 16:00 and enjoy walking around the city after checking in at the inn.
The next day you will be traveling a long distance, so take a rest in the hot springs to save energy.
Please check hot spring show time at Netsunoyu
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
Kusatsu is one of the most famous onsen town in all over Japan.
Drive Japan recommends an inn within walking distance of the symbolic “Yubatake” hot spring field.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities.
There are a variety of inns like western-style hotels and Japanese Ryokans. Please book at your preferred type of inn. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. But some of their parking is far from the inn and they provide a free shuttle bus. - Onsen
Of course, most of the inns have onsen. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are some restaurants around the hotel for dinner, so please make reservations according to your preference.
Kusatsu – Yuzawa🔒
Start:Kusatsu (草津)
Finish:Yuzawa (湯沢)
Mileage:140km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day, you will head to Yuzawa in Niigata Prefecture from Kusatsu Onsen via National Route 292 (Shiga Kusatsu Road), a breathtakingly scenic road through the highest elevation in Japan. This is one of the biggest highlights of this road trip.
1
Inn in Kusatsu Onsen
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:00
The mileage is about 140km, but about 50km of this is a mountain road, so it takes time. There are some spots such as Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park that take time, so if you want to visit many sightseeing spots, we recommend that you leave at 9:00 at the latest.
25 min
As soon as you leave Kusatsu, you will enter [Shiga Kusatsu Road]. The area around Sassho-gawara just after entering Shiga Kusatsu Road is prohibited from parking or driving with the windows open due to gas caused by active volcanic activity. Please proceed with caution.
As you drive the Shiga Kusatsu Road, you will exceed the forest limit and get a better view. There are many observatories along the way, so stop by and enjoy the most exhilarating drive.
2
Highest point of Japan National Route
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:25
When you go further, you will arrive at [Highest point of Japan National Route]. At the best viewpoint on the Shiga Kusatsu Road, you can enjoy a magnificent view.
5 min
3
Mt.Yokote observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
10:00
About 2km from there, you will arrive at [Mt. Yokote observatory].
If you have time, you can also use the skylator and lift to climb the summit of Mt. Yokote.
Mt.Yokote Summit has a Crumpet Cafe with a wonderful view. Also, about 50m away from there, there is the Yokote Summit Hut, and the bakery there is very famous. On this day, we recommend having lunch at one of these restaurants.
35 min
4
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:15
After that, when you go down the mountain and pass the Shiga highland, you will arrive at [Jigokudani Monkey Park], which is very popular with foreign tourists.
There is nice cafe near the park and good for lunch.
100min
It takes about 90km and about 2 hours from Monkey Park to Yuzawa. Please drive along the Chikuma River while taking a break at the roadside station.
5
Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
16:00
Especially in this area, we recommend the Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel, where you can take photogenic photos.
25 min
There are nice flowers and autumn foriage spots along the way.
6
Inn in Yuzawa
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:15
Yuzawa, where you stay on this day, is also a famous onsen town.
Also, if you drive from Echigo Yuzawa on the Kan-Etsu Expressway for about 30km and 40 minutes, you will reach Minakami Onsen. Many inns are of a slightly higher grade, and the mileage the next day will be shorter, so this is also recommended.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in either Yuzawa town or Minakami town. It is 35km and takes about 30min away across the very long Kanetsu Tunnel on the expressway. Both of them are famous for their Onsen and Minakami town is known to have more luxurious inns.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for onsens and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
Both towns don’t have many restaurants and recommended to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Yuzawa – Nikko🔒
Start: Yuzawa (湯沢)
Finish: Nikko (日光) or Kinugawa(鬼怒川)
Mileage:150km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head to Nikko from Yuzawa through three waterfalls called Oku-Nikko three major Waterfalls, Senjogahara, and Irohazaka.
1
Inn in Yuzawa
60 min
Immediately after leaving Yuzawa, take the Kan-Etsu Expressway and head to Minakami through the Kan-Etsu Tunnel. Be sure to drive expressway (E17) as it is a very detour and a waste of time on ordinary roads.
2
Fukiware Waterfall
Parking MAPCODE:
Please check belowWhat is MAPCODE?
10:00
Your first destination on this day is [Fukiwari Waterfall]. It is a very mysterious waterfall formed by the river eroding over a long period of time from the rock formed by the solidification of lava.
Please use one of the following parking lots.
① Takinoeki Fukiware-滝の駅吹割
MAPCODE: 540 115 493
② Kyaraen-伽羅園
MAPCODE: 540 115 701
55 min
3
Yudaki Falls & Lake Yunoko
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:55
From there you cross Mt. Nikko-Shirane and head for Oku-Nikko. The next destination is [Yudaki Falls & Lake Yunoko].
The water flowing from Lake Yunoko becomes a huge Yudaki Falls with a height of 70m and a width of 25m. The view from the observatory just below the basin is impressive.
10 min
4
Lake Chuzenjiko
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:05
You will arrive at [Lake Chuzenjiko] from Yudaki via Senjogahara and Ryuzu Falls. From the lakeside parking lot, you can also enjoy a walk to [Chuzenji Temple], [British Embassy Villa], and [Italian Embassy Villa].
35 min
5
Akechidaira Ropeway
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:10
After leaving Lake Chuzenjiko, go down the famous Irohazaka (mountain road) to the Nikko city area.
If you have time, we recommend the Akechidaira Ropeway Observatory. This is only accessible from the one-way Irohazaka climbing line, so you’ll have to go down once and then climb again. However, you can meet the magnificent view of Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenjiko, and the Kegon Falls that flow down from there.
25 min
6
Inn in Nikko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
On this day you will stay in Nikko. An inn near Toshogu is convenient for sightseeing the next day. If you drive about 15km from Toshogu, you will reach Kinugawa, a hot spring resort that represents the Kanto region. There are many inns, and you can relax in the hot springs, so this is also recommended.
You will visit Nikko shrines and temples such as Toshogu tomorrow morning.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Nikko(日光) City. Many inns are concentrated in the following two areas.
①Around Toshogu Shrine
The biggest highlight of Nikko is “Toshogu Shrine” and many inns are concentrated near it.
- Inn Type
There are a variety of inns like 3-star Japanese Ryokan and 5-star historic western hotels. Please book at your preferred type of inn. - Parking
Most inns have official parking but in addition to the accommodation fee, the parking lot fee will be charged separately. - Onsen
Most inns don’t have onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants for dinner in this area and be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
②Kinugawa Onsen(鬼怒川温泉) area
Kinugawa located 20km and takes 30min from the Toshogu shrine is famous for onsen.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for onsens and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area and be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Nikko – Tokyo🔒
Start: Nikko (日光) or Kinugawa(鬼怒川)
Finish: Tokyo (東京)
Mileage:200km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day you will return to Tokyo from Nikko.
1
Inn in Nikko or Kinugawa
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:00
The mileage is long at about 200km, but 100km or more is a drive on the expressway.
10 min
2
Shrines and Temples of Nikko(Toshogu Shrine)
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:10
The first destination is the world heritage [Shrines and Temples of Nikko] including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
You will first go to [Nikko Toshogu Shrine], which enshrines Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of Edo, now the world city Tokyo. This shrine is too famous for the Yomeimon Gate and sleeping cats. [Futarasan Shrine], [Rinnoji Temple], and [Daiyuin], which enshrines Tokugawa Iemitsu, are also worth seeing.
25 min
3
Akechidaira Ropeway
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:00
If you have time, we recommend the Akechidaira Ropeway Observatory. Located on the hillside of Irohazaka, you can see the magnificent view of Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenjiko, and the Kegon Falls that flow down from there.
50 min
4
Oya Museum
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:00
After that, head to [Oya Museum]. Although it is named a museum, it is actually the site of a huge underground quarry of stone named Oya stone used for warehouses. You will be amazed at its size, which is like an underground city.
120min
The distance from Oya to Tokyo is 120km on the Tohoku Expressway (E4), which takes about 2 hours.
Please drive safely taking a break in the service area on the way. We recommend the unique Hanyu parking area for a break.
Also, along the route of the day, there is [Ashikaga Flower Park] where flowers bloom all year round, and [Gongendo Park] which is famous for cherry blossoms. If you are traveling during the flowering season, we recommend that you give priority to this.
6
Rental car branch at Haneda Airport, Narita Airport or Tokyo
Parking MAPCODE:
Please refer driving mapWhat is MAPCODE?
17:30
This is the end of this road trip.
①Returning a car at Haneda Airport
They provide a free shuttle bus from the branch to the airport. Normally it takes 15-20 min but may take up to 1 hour during busy times.
②Returning a car at Narita Airport
If you use Narita Airport, please be aware that it is about 70km from central Tokyo and about 1 hour by expressway. They provide a free shuttle bus from the branch to the airport. Normally it takes 15-30 min but may take up to 1 hour during busy times.
③Returning a car in Tokyo
Traffic jams often occur in Tokyo. Be sure to return your car with plenty of time to spare.
There are 80,000 restaurants in Tokyo! Enjoy your last Japanese meal before returning to your home country as much as you want!
The driving map will show additional 10-20 sightseeing spots and local restaurants for the day!
You can travel freely, choosing only the spots you like!
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
If you are planning to stay overnight in Tokyo, we recommend the following places.
①Shinjuku Station
Convenient for sightseeing, shopping, and eating.
②Shibuya Station
Convenient for sightseeing, shopping, and eating.
③Tokyo Station
Recommended for travelers who will take Shinkansen.
④Haneda Airport
There are some huge hotels at the airport.
⑤Narita Airport
As you may know, Narita Airport is located 80km away from Tokyo and takes about 2 hours by car. Please travel well in advance of your schedule.
- Inn Type
There are about 3,000 inns in Tokyo. Please book at your preferred type of inn. - Parking
Some inns have official parking but in addition to the accommodation fee, the parking lot fee will be charged separately. - Onsen
A few inns provide onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are 80,000 restaurants in Tokyo. As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.
Your Perfect Travel Companion!
Our Travel Kit makes your road trip safer and more memorable!
What is DJ Travel Kit?
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our expertly designed travel kit, perfect for uncovering Japan’s hidden treasures! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or driving in Japan for the first time, this kit guarantees a seamless mix of excitement, culture, and relaxation.
What’s Inside:
Why Choose Our Travel Kit?
Unforgettable Memories: Each day promises unique experiences, from iconic landmarks to hidden treasures off the beaten path, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Flexibility in Your Itinerary: Our maps are packed with top attractions, hidden gems and eateries along the day’s route. Dive into the places that spark your interest and craft an itinerary that’s uniquely yours. The adventure is in your hands—make it unforgettable!
Stress-Free Travel: With everything you need in one convenient kit, you can focus on enjoying your road trip. Our comprehensive tools and expert tips ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Kit 1: Day-by-day Driving Map
Plan your perfect road trip day-by-day with our Google Maps-based driving maps. Each day’s itinerary, such as “Day.1 Tokyo to Hakone,” is packed with curated routes featuring 15-20 sightseeing spots and restaurants along the way, each pinpointed with a MAPCODE(Kit 2).
Sample Day-by-day Driving Map(Tokyo – Hakone)
- Scenic Routes:
We designed for scenic drives, not just the shortest path, ensuring a memorable journey. - Flexibility:
Spend your time only on your preferred tourist spots and dining venues. - Safety First:
Routes are optimized for appropriate driving distances, avoiding risky roads for a secure road trip. - Find Hidden Gems:
Discover spots Google misses or public transport can’t reach.- Example: Ukiha Inari Shrine
This photogenic shrine is located along the route from Fukuoka to Yufuin, and within 20 minutes you can have the wonderful scenery all to yourself. Few Japanese, let alone foreigners, know about it, and its inconvenient location makes it difficult to visit except by car.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ENmDp69E6V7V3B49
Drive Japan day-by-day driving map will introduce you the these hidden gems everyday and make your road trip more wonderful experience!
- Example: Ukiha Inari Shrine
Kit 2: Parking MAPCODE
Tired of hunting for parking? Enter MAPCODE instead of addresses in your car’s navigation system! It lead you straight to the most convenient parking at each tourist hotspot, ensuring you spend less time circling and more time adventuring.
- Accurate Navigation:
With MAPCODE, you’re guided straight to the parking spots, not to the middle of a lake or inside a garden! For road trippers visiting 5-6 destinations each day, accurate parking guidance is crucial to make the most of your journey. - Time is Money:
Why waste precious travel time searching for parking or researching routes? International travel is an investment, costing an average of USD 16 per person per hour. For a group of three on a 7-day trip, that’s over 10 hours lost to parking hunts alone. Let MAPCODE streamline your travels, so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying your adventure!
Kit 3: Restaurant List
Explore curated restaurant lists for each town you stay in, featuring recommended dining options.
Sample Restaurant List(Asahikawa)
- Local Cuisine:
Taste regional specialties and must-try dishes at our handpicked spots. We do not accept advertising fees from restaurants. Our selected restaurants are chosen solely based on their appeal and our firsthand experience. - Convenience:
Easily access Google Maps links for each restaurant, allowing quick checks on photos and operating hours. - Practical Advice:
Provides things you should know about dinner in the town you’re staying in, such as “towns with few restaurants” and “towns with very fast last orders by ordinance.”
Car Booking
Rental Car Booking
Please rent a car with below “Rentalcars.com” link.
- The abundant number of rental cars
- Price comparisons with several major car rental companies
- Free cancellation
Pick-up & Drop-off Location Guide
- Airport
Tokyo has 2 main airports. Haneda is close to Tokyo and Narita is 70km away.
If you arrive after 14:00 at Haneda or 12:00 at Narita airport, consider staying overnight around the airport or in Tokyo and departing the next morning.- Haneda Airport
20km to center of Tokyo
30-45 min to Tokyo, Shibuya and Shinjuku Stations by train. - Narita Airport
70km to center of Tokyo.
60 minutes from Tokyo by train, 90 minutes by car.
- Haneda Airport
- Main stations in Tokyo
- Tokyo Station
Recommended for travelers who will take Shinkansen. - Shinjuku Station
- Shibuya Station
- Tokyo Station
Important reminder for renting a car
- GPS(Car Navigation System)
MAPCODE from Drive Japan navigates you precisely to the parking lot. GPS from major car rental companies(Nippon, ORIX, Nissan, Times) are always MAPCODE compatible. However, if you are renting a car from another company, we recommend that you check with the rental company after making a reservation, just to be sure. - One-way Rental
You can rent at the airport and return at the stations, and vice versa. Normally, the one-way charge is about JPY3000~7000. - Child Seat
In Japan, the use of a child safety seat or baby seat is mandatory for children under 5 years old.
Be sure to request one from “Extras”. - Snow Tire
If you travel from the end of November to the end of March, you must book a car with snow tires.