Van life & cultural road trip in Japan

We've arranged the first 3 nights for you in Tokyo (you can stay longer if you'd like). After a long flight, it's nice to start out with a few days to explore this massive metropole before your road trip starts. In Tokyo, there is so much to see and do it's literally overwhelming. Each neighborhood is quite different, but we suggest you to at least go and see the Tsukiji Fish Market and the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temples. For a bit of piece and quiet (if you stay away from the main trails that is), we suggest the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, a serene and peaceful shrine surrounded by a lush forest. After 3 days (or more?), you'll pick up your vehicle in the airport and hit the road.

From Tokyo you'll pass through some incredible landscapes and we recommend that you do some stops along the way to really enjoy the surroundings. After a long day on the road you'll love a relaxing moment at one of Nagano’s many hot springs. There is a lot to see and do in the Nagano area (you've probably heard of the famous Snow Monkeys occupying the hot springs), so we recommend at least a couple of days here.

Takayama itself is cool, but the highlight is the region in which the town is situated - the Japanese Alps. While the entire region is drop-dead gorgeous, we think the Kamikochi Valley, a stunning valley with crystal-clear water and breathtaking views, is an absolute must. Another one of our favourites is Hakusan National Park, with some of the best views in the Japanese Alps. On the way onwards, do stop by the Shirakawa-go Village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional thatched-roof houses as seen in the picture. Staying a night (or two) in Takayama as a base to explore the region and its ancient villages is probably the best way to go - check out the Hidatakayama camping ground!

In Kyoto you can see many, many temples, of which the Kinkaku-ji Temple (also known as the Golden Pavilion) is probably the most impressive. Next, visit the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take it chill exploring the Gion District, Kyoto’s historical neighborhood. If you want to go a little more of the beaten path, jump in your campervan and drive up along the Kibune river, just north of Kyoto. There are plenty of old shrines a long the way, some even eerie and deserted, but the mysterious forest setting all of them have is simply beautiful.

It's Osaka that's up next. Here you can see Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous castles. Make sure to visit the Dotonbori area, a bustling entertainment district with a variety of shops and restaurants. that's especially alive at night. Osaka is known as Japan's (street)food capital, so make sure to try all that you can before you continue to Nora.

Nara is a must-visit for its Nara Park, where you can feed and take selfies with friendly, free-roaming deer. Check out Tōdai-ji Temple to see the massive Great Buddha statue, a perfect spot for some epic Instagram shots. Also, don’t miss the Kasuga Grand Shrine, with its thousands of lanterns creating a magical vibe. For a chill day, explore the serene Isuien Garden or if you feel more adventurous, hike up Mount Wakakusa for stunning views of the city and a great place to relax and enjoy nature. When you leave Nara you can check out Nagoya on the way to Hakone which also worth a visit.

On your way from Nara to Hakone, make a stop in Nagoya, one of Japan’s major cities and a great place to experience a different side of the country. Visit Nagoya Castle, explore the lively city centre and take some time to try the local food. If you’re into cars, don’t miss the Toyota-related sights around the city. After exploring Nagoya, hit the road again and continue towards Hakone.

From Nagoya you'll drive to Hakone, on the southern coast below Tokyo. Here you can do some fantastic hikes, and since Hakone is a typical hot spring town, a nice onsen will be waiting for you in the evening. If you're lucky, Hakone will also present you with a magnificent view of Mt Fuji, but if you want to see the mountain up close, a detour via the Fuji Five lakes area is recommended. After Hakone, it's time to drive back to drop off your vehicle. You drop it off in the airport, so it's pretty convenient if you're heading home (or onwards) after this road trip.