Japan offers some of the most breathtaking road trips you’ll ever experience. From scenic coastal drives to winding mountain routes, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for vibrant cities or serene countryside, these must-see routes have it all. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Japan’s diverse landscapes.
Nakasendo Trail
The Nakasendo Trail runs through the Kiso Valley, covering about 70 kilometers of picturesque scenery. This historic route, once a major road linking Kyoto and Tokyo, takes you through charming post towns like Magome and Tsumago. Enjoy well-preserved Edo-period architecture and lush mountain views as you drive. The road provides a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Pacific Coast Highway (Izu Peninsula)
Stretching around 150 kilometers, the Izu Peninsula offers stunning coastal views and hot springs. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, with highlights like the famous Jogasaki Coast and the historic town of Atami. The route also passes through picturesque fishing villages and lush forests. It’s a great way to explore the diverse landscape of the Izu Peninsula.
Hakone Skyline
The Hakone Skyline is a 20-kilometer route famous for its panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. This road is renowned for its winding turns and scenic overlooks. Along the way, you can stop at Hakone’s famous hot springs and art museums. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Hakone region.
Shikoku’s 88 Temple Pilgrimage Route
The Shikoku Pilgrimage Route spans about 1,200 kilometers, circling the island and visiting 88 temples. Although the full pilgrimage takes weeks, a shorter road trip allows you to explore significant temples and scenic spots. Highlights include the picturesque town of Matsuyama and the stunning coastline around Naruto. This route combines spiritual exploration with beautiful landscapes.
Kyushu’s Aso Caldera Route
Covering around 200 kilometers, this route takes you through the Aso Caldera, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. Enjoy views of the active Aso Volcano and the lush, fertile farmland that surrounds it. Stops include picturesque towns like Kumamoto and fascinating volcanic landscapes. It’s a journey through one of Japan’s most dynamic geological features.
Kurobe Gorge
The Kurobe Gorge route is a 30-kilometer stretch known for its stunning natural beauty and deep ravines. The road takes you through rugged terrain with dramatic views of the Kurobe River. Key spots include the scenic Kurobe Gorge Railway and charming mountain villages. It’s an ideal trip for those who appreciate rugged landscapes and natural wonders.
Okinawa’s Coastal Route
Okinawa’s Coastal Route stretches about 200 kilometers along the island’s picturesque shoreline. Enjoy stunning ocean views, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Highlights include the beautiful Cape Manzamo and the historical Shurijo Castle. This drive is perfect for a tropical getaway with plenty of cultural and natural attractions.
Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Road
The Conan Road, covering roughly 30 kilometers, takes you through the Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan’s largest sand dune area. Enjoy the unique desert-like landscape, including sand dunes and the nearby Sand Museum. The route also offers views of the Sea of Japan and local towns. It’s a fascinating drive through one of Japan’s most unusual landscapes. (Note that Tottori Sand Dunes is pictured above.)
Hokkaido’s Scenic Route (Daisetsuzan National Park)
The Daisetsuzan Scenic Route spans around 150 kilometers through Hokkaido’s mountainous terrain. Drive through the heart of Daisetsuzan National Park, known for its stunning alpine scenery and wildlife. Key attractions include the hot springs of Sounkyo and the scenic Asahidake. This road trip offers a deep dive into Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go
This 80-kilometer route takes you from Kanazawa to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go. Enjoy the transition from urban sophistication to the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled in a picturesque valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns and lush countryside. It’s a journey through both modern and historical Japan. (Note that Shirakawa-go village is pictured above.)
Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Loop
The Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Loop covers about 100 kilometers around the base of Japan’s iconic mountain. This drive offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the serene lakes that surround it. Key spots include Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, each providing different perspectives of the mountain. It’s a beautiful way to experience one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
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Although technically not a traditional road trip, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route spans around 90 kilometers through the Northern Japan Alps. This route combines bus, cable car, and trolleybus travel to showcase some of Japan’s most dramatic alpine scenery. Highlights include the Snow Corridor and the Kurobe Dam. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in mountain landscapes.
Nagoya to Takayama
The route from Nagoya to Takayama covers approximately 100 kilometers and takes you through rural Gifu Prefecture. Drive through picturesque landscapes and visit historic towns like Takayama, known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets. The journey also includes stops in charming villages and scenic viewpoints. It’s a great way to explore central Japan’s cultural heritage.
Nara’s Historic Route
This 50-kilometer route explores Nara Prefecture, famous for its ancient temples and historical sites. Drive through the picturesque city of Nara, home to the iconic Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park with its friendly deer. The route also includes stops at the traditional town of Uda and the scenic Yoshino area. It’s a trip filled with cultural and historical richness.
Kinki’s Coastal Drive
The Kinki Coastal Drive spans around 200 kilometers along the western coast of Honshu. Enjoy dramatic sea views and charming coastal towns like Wakayama and Shirahama. The route also offers access to beautiful beaches and historic sites. It’s an ideal drive for those who love coastal scenery and regional culture.
Chugoku’s Sanin Coast
The Sanin Coast route covers approximately 150 kilometers along the northern shore of Honshu. This drive takes you through scenic coastal areas with stops in historical towns like Matsue and beautiful beaches like Tottori. Enjoy the rugged coastline and local attractions, including the Adachi Museum’s famous Japanese gardens. It’s a great blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Tokyo to Nikko
This route stretches about 150 kilometers from Tokyo to the historic city of Nikko. Enjoy the transition from bustling cityscapes to the serene temples and natural beauty of Nikko. Key stops include the Toshogu Shrine and scenic Lake Chuzenji. It’s a refreshing getaway from the city to one of Japan’s most beautiful heritage sites.
Kyoto’s Arashiyama Loop
The Arashiyama Loop, covering around 20 kilometers, explores Kyoto’s picturesque western district. Drive through the charming Arashiyama area, famous for its bamboo grove and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Visit nearby temples like Tenryu-ji and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hozu River. It’s a short but rich experience of Kyoto’s cultural and natural attractions.
Gunma’s Scenic Drive
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Gunma Prefecture’s scenic drive spans about 120 kilometers, showcasing the region’s mountainous and rural landscapes. Key attractions include the hot springs of Kusatsu and the stunning scenery of the Oze National Park. The route also passes through traditional towns and offers views of picturesque lakes. It’s a great way to explore Gunma’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hiroshima to Miyajima
The drive from Hiroshima to Miyajima covers about 30 kilometers, including a ferry ride to the island. Enjoy views of Hiroshima’s historical sites and the serene beauty of Miyajima Island. Key highlights include the famous Itsukushima Shrine and the picturesque floating torii gate. This trip offers a blend of historical significance and natural beauty.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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